At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a Food & Beverage Assistant and deliver excellent customer service in a lively café.
- Company: Dover District Council, committed to first-class public services and a supportive work environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hours, healthcare membership, generous leave, and a local government pension scheme.
- Other info: Full training provided; opportunities for additional hours and career growth.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team and make a real impact on visitors' experiences.
- Qualifications: Positive attitude, strong communication skills, and a passion for customer service.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 16 £ per hour.
Please indicate in your application if you are interested in 8 or 16 hours per week. Dover District Council has an exciting agenda to deliver first‑class public services, putting our residents at the heart of everything we do. A career with Dover District Council offers you the opportunity to excel. As an employer, Dover District Council is proud to provide a supportive, friendly, diverse and flexible working environment in which our employees can thrive.
The Role & Responsibilities
Kearsney Café is looking for a warm, energetic, and customer‑focused Food & Beverage Assistant to join our friendly team. If you enjoy working with people, take pride in great service, and thrive in a lively café environment, we’d love to hear from you. Located in the heart of Kearsney Parks, the café is a busy venue serving thousands of visitors each year. Alongside day‑to‑day café service, we also cater for small weddings and private events in the Billiards Room, making this a varied and fast‑paced role. We are recruiting several Food & Beverage Assistants, each for up to 16 hours per week. As the first point of contact for our customers, you’ll play a key role in ensuring every visitor receives a warm welcome and excellent service. The role requires flexibility, as no two weeks are the same. Shifts would typically be between 4‑8 hours, with occasional opportunities for additional hours. Shifts will include weekends, weekdays, and occasional evenings when private events are scheduled.
What We’re Looking For
- A positive attitude and genuine passion for customer service
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Ability to stay calm and organised during busy periods
- Reliability, punctuality, and a willingness to learn
- Previous café/barista or hospitality experience to include cash handling and an understanding of epos till systems helpful but not essential – full training provided
Due to the nature of this role, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a Basic DBS check as part of their pre‑employment clearances. This role requires a driving licence or the ability to get to locations in a timely manner equivalent to motor travel in your own vehicle.
What We Can Offer
We can provide a friendly and supportive environment for you to excel in. We also offer several employee benefits, subject to eligibility criteria, such as:
- Benenden Healthcare membership and Employee Assistance Program
- Opt‑in Local government pension scheme with the opportunity for staff to make advanced, voluntary contributions (AVCs) to top up their pension
- Generous annual leave provision
- Discount scheme including reduced membership rates at the local leisure centre
- On‑site parking (site dependent)
- Cycle 2Work scheme
- Generous salary sacrifice Car Scheme
The quality of your application will be considered as part of the recruitment process. For an alternative format, or to apply using a different method, please contact us.
What Next
If you would like a further discussion about the post then please contact Lorraine Lyons, Operations Manager at Kearsney Cafe at Lorraine.Lyons@dover.gov.uk. Interviews to be held on 3 March 2025.
Food & Beverage Assistant in Dover employer: Dover District Council
As a Port Health Supervisor at the Port of Dover, you will join a dedicated team committed to maintaining high standards of biosecurity and border control in a dynamic and challenging environment. Our organisation values employee well-being, offering a competitive salary with a 14% shift allowance, comprehensive healthcare benefits, and generous annual leave, all while fostering a supportive work culture that prioritises professional growth and development. With flexible working patterns and opportunities for training, this role not only promises meaningful work but also a chance to thrive in a vibrant port setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food & Beverage Assistant in Dover
✨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 Dover District Council. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Dover District Council
Don't be shy about reaching out to Dover District Council 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 Food & Beverage Assistant in Dover
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 Dover District Council 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 Dover District Council
✨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!
