At a Glance
- Tasks: Welcome visitors, manage calls, sort deliveries, and ensure security at the College.
- Company: Join a friendly team at a prestigious College with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive training, and an attractive benefits package.
- Other info: Flexible shift patterns with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Be the first point of contact and make a difference in student welfare.
- Qualifications: Strong interpersonal skills and experience dealing with the public required.
The predicted salary is between 28841 - 28841 £ per year.
Information for the role of College Porter
Salary £28,841.06 per annum.
Permanent full-time position on a shift rota (38 hours per week).
We are seeking a College Porter to join a friendly established team. The Porters Lodge is the central hub of the College, acting as the first point of contact for all enquiries from external visitors, staff, students, and fellows. Daily responsibilities include providing a front‑of‑house service, welcoming visitors, managing telephone calls, sorting deliveries, and distributing mail around the College. Additionally, the Lodge responds to fire alarms, provides first aid, attends to student welfare calls out of hours, and is responsible for the security of the College.
Operating 24/7, the Porters Lodge is staffed by a dedicated team working on a rota basis. Shifts include early, late, night, and sleep shifts, covering Monday to Sunday, with an average of 38 hours worked per week.
Key Responsibilities
- Front‑of‑house service: welcoming visitors, managing telephone calls, sorting deliveries, and distributing mail.
- Respond to fire alarms and provide first aid.
- Attend to student welfare calls outside of normal hours.
- Maintain the security of the College.
- Support the Porters Lodge team on a 24/7 shift rota.
Required Qualifications
- Demonstrable understanding of the work of a Porters Lodge.
- Experience dealing with the public and strong interpersonal skills.
- Good computer literacy, including Microsoft Outlook and Excel.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality of data.
Benefits
In addition to the salary, we offer an attractive benefits package. A full list of benefits is available from the College’s HR Office.
Employment Conditions
Comprehensive training and a full induction are provided to ensure you are fully prepared for the role.
Applicants who declare a disability will be offered an interview if they meet the minimum criteria for the job. Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK. Applications are welcomed from a broad range of backgrounds.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land College Porter in Cambridge
✨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 Downing College. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Downing College
Don't be shy about reaching out to Downing College 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 College Porter in Cambridge
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 Downing College 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 Downing College
✨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!
