At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and present delicious food while ensuring top-notch hygiene and operational standards.
- Company: Join Dobbies, a leading garden centre retailer with a rich history and vibrant culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, discounts, financial support, and access to development programmes.
- Other info: Thrive in a diverse culture that celebrates success and community engagement.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team delivering exceptional customer experiences in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: A love for food, teamwork skills, and knowledge of kitchen safety are essential.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
Our Kitchen Assistants play an essential role in delivering exceptional customer experience across our Restaurants - delivering tasty food, ensuring food hygiene and maintaining high operational standards.
Responsibilities
- Preparing and presenting food in line with menu specification
- Working proactively and supporting general kitchen duties
- Working alongside the kitchen team to ensure your customers are presented with their meal to a high standard and on time
- Developing your knowledge of dietary requirements, allergies and health & safety
Who we are looking for
- You are passionate about all things food and delivering the best possible experience for our customers
- A team player and confident communicator who is eager to learn new skills and gain new experiences
- Flourish in a busy, fast-paced environment
- Experience of working in food service
- Knowledge and understanding of kitchen health, safety and hygiene rules
- Relevant food safety qualifications would be ideal
- Can demonstrate our values at all times - we're one team, getting better every day. We bring a smile. We live and breathe gardens. We make it work for our customers.
What we offer
- Generous annual leave entitlement. Use your holidays when you want with limited statutory days off required
- Treat yourself with generous uncapped discount across our stores with 50% off in our Restaurants, 25% off in the Garden Centre and 10% off in our food halls
- Access to Stream – support your financial wellbeing, with ability to access earnings ahead of pay day, save for the future and financial advice
- Access to Retail Trust – seek confidential support, access to a virtual GP, free counselling service and discounted retail rewards with our employee wellbeing platform
- Access to Dobbies Academy – continue your development with our eLearning platform and development programmes
- Thriving culture; the Dobbies team are passionate, diverse and committed to making it work for our customers
About us
At Dobbies, we’re proud to have a history dating back to 1865. We were founded by James Dobbie and are the only garden centre retailer to have stores in every nation across the UK. Our passion and joy for gardens and plants is what makes us special. In our stores, we showcase this through own brand and branded products, concession partners and services. We champion garden living all-year-round. Many of our stores feature a restaurant or coffee shop, where customers can enjoy refreshments or meals in a relaxed and welcoming environment. We offer a calendar of events and experiences that bring people and communities together, and we have a national charity partner that both our colleagues and customers raise money for. We’re committed to being a great place to work. We’re one team and we encourage our colleagues to be the best version of themselves, every day; to share their wins and celebrate success. Together, we make it work for our customers.
Kitchen Assistant employer: Dobbies Milton Keynes
Dobbies Milton Keynes is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters creativity and innovation in menu development. With benefits like hybrid working, generous discounts, and ample opportunities for professional growth, employees are encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant
✨Get a Taste of the Scene
Try visiting local eateries and asking if they have any full-time positions available. Many hospitality jobs aren’t advertised online, so popping in for a chat can give you an edge and show your enthusiasm!
✨Network at Food Festivals
Food festivals and culinary events are buzzing with industry connections. Attend these to meet restaurateurs and other food service pros; you never know who might be looking for their next star employee!
✨Show Off Your Skills
Create a short video showcasing your cooking or customer service flair. Post it on social media or even send it directly to places you want to work at, like Dobbies Milton Keynes. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Dobbies Milton Keynes
Don't be shy about reaching out to Dobbies Milton Keynes directly through their website. Express your interest in available roles and attach your CV, showing your genuine eagerness to be part of their team. Personal touches can go a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Experience:In the hospitality-food-service world, your experience is key! Make sure to highlight any previous roles you've had in restaurants, cafes, or catering. We want to see your customer service skills shine, so include specific examples where you went above and beyond for clients.
Certificates Matter:If you’ve got any relevant certifications, like food safety or bartender training, flaunt them! They can really set you apart from the crowd and show us your dedication to the industry. Just make sure to mention them clearly in your CV or cover letter!
Craft a Genuine Cover Letter:Take the time to write a personal cover letter that reflects your passion for hospitality. Share why you’re excited about Dobbies Milton Keynes and how your skills can contribute to our team's success. We're after that genuine connection!
Highlight Your Team Spirit:In full-time roles, teamwork is everything! Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively in busy environments. Mention any experiences where you’ve effectively collaborated with colleagues or managed conflicts — it's just as important as your technical skills!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dobbies Milton Keynes
✨Show Your People Skills
In hospitality, customer service is everything! Be ready to showcase examples of how you've engaged with customers positively. Maybe you turned a tough situation around or went that extra mile for a guest—let’s hear those stories!
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
Expect some technical questions about food and drink, especially if you're applying for a kitchen or service role. Brush up on the menu items, including ingredients and any potential allergens. If you’ve got any favourite dishes or cocktails, have a little something prepared to discuss, too!
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, so think of examples where you've worked well with others in a fast-paced environment. Be prepared to discuss what makes a great team member and how you contribute to a positive working vibe. They’re looking for that 'good fit!'
✨Get Ready for a Practical Test
In full-time food service roles, don’t be surprised if they want to see your skills in action. Whether it's serving a table or prepping a dish, be mentally prepared for a practical test during the interview. Practice makes perfect—a little dry run with friends could give you the edge!
