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- Tasks: Join our team as a Cafe Assistant, providing friendly service and maintaining a clean environment.
- Company: Durham University is dedicated to enhancing student and staff experiences across its vibrant campus.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, ongoing development opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team that creates memorable dining experiences for the university community.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications required; just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn!
- Other info: The role will transition to Boldon House in early 2025, offering a modern workspace.
Cafe Assistant – Durham
T he Role and Department
The Operations Directorate: Elevating the Student and Staff Experience
The Operations Directorate is integral to the Colleges and Student Experience Division , d edicated to providing a world-class experience for our diverse student and staff communit ies, which is essential to our students\’ learning journey. Our passionate team delivers services and facilities across 15 colleges, including catering, housekeeping, reception, security, and maintenance. These resources create a safe environment where our students can live, work, dine, socialise, and thrive together.
Within the Operations Directorate, we have three key areas:
- University Catering: Our robust catering team of 500 ensures fresh, exciting, and diverse dining experiences throughout our colleges, catering to the unique needs of our University Community, which includes students, staff, and visitors , and offer expert advice on bar management.
- College Operations: With over 200 dedicated professionals, we provide residential services within the colleges as well as supporting student and non-student-led events.
- Retail Services: Our branded retail catering and merchandise outlets offer an enticing array of menus and high-quality products thoughtfully presented to enhance the shopping experience for our students and staff whilst building positive relationships via efficient service and attentive staff.
In addition to a highly competitive salary and rewards package, our strategic focus includes ongoing development opportunities for our people. Join us today and shape your career at Durham University!
Café assistants work in one of our nine thriving cafes which are located across Durham University Campus.
As a Café Assistant, you will be working part of a team to provide students, colleagues, and guests with a courteous, professional, friendly, and efficient catering service. Working as part of the catering team you will ensure that Retail Outlets are set up to an exceptional standard and remain clean, tidy and a safe working environment. Washing up is completed as part of the role, this will include the use of an automatic dishwasher, and after service, all food areas are cleared and cleaned. Working in a catering environment requires an element of physical manual handling which can include lifting and transporting food and catering equipment, including heavy plates and cutlery.
From early 2025 the base location for this role will change from our Durham City Centre site to our exciting new professional services hub based at Boldon House. Boldon House is situated on the outskirts of Durham near the Arnison Centre in Pity Me. Boldon House will bring a number of professional services teams together in a vibrant office environment which supports collaborative working and is designed to embrace hybrid working. To find out more about this project, please visit this webpage: Boldon House – Durham University .
Who to contact for more information
If you would like to have a chat or ask any questions about the role or if you are struggling to complete the application process, Craig Hoye would be happy to speak to you.
Cafe Assistant - Durham employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Cafe Assistant - Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the catering services at Durham University. Understanding their diverse offerings and how they cater to students and staff will help you demonstrate your enthusiasm and knowledge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in customer service or catering roles. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've provided excellent service, as this is crucial for a Cafe Assistant position.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your teamwork skills! Since you'll be working as part of a team, think of instances where you've successfully collaborated with others to achieve a common goal, and be prepared to discuss these experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Be aware of the physical demands of the role. Mention your ability to handle manual tasks and your readiness to maintain a clean and safe working environment, as this will demonstrate your suitability for the job.
We think you need these skills to ace Cafe Assistant - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of a Cafe Assistant. Highlight your relevant experience in customer service and catering.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to reflect your skills and experiences that align with the role. Emphasize any previous work in catering or hospitality, and mention your ability to work in a team.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the position and the university environment. Mention specific examples of how you can contribute to providing excellent service to students and staff.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, make sure to proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Show Your Passion for Customer Service
As a Cafe Assistant, you'll be interacting with students and staff daily. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for providing excellent customer service during the interview. Share examples of how you've gone above and beyond to help customers in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Working in a cafe requires strong teamwork. Be prepared to discuss your experience working in teams, how you handle conflicts, and how you contribute to a positive team environment. Highlight any specific instances where you collaborated effectively with others.
✨Understand the Role's Physical Demands
The job involves physical tasks like lifting and transporting food and equipment. Be honest about your ability to meet these demands and share any relevant experiences that demonstrate your physical capability and willingness to work hard.
✨Familiarize Yourself with the University Culture
Research Durham University and its values. Understanding the university's commitment to providing a world-class experience for its community will help you align your answers with their mission. Mention any specific aspects of the university culture that resonate with you.
