At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to provide friendly and efficient service in a vibrant café environment.
- Company: Exciting opportunity at Durham University’s thriving cafés.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, great team atmosphere, and valuable work experience.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth and the chance to meet new people every day.
- Why this job: Perfect for students looking to earn while enjoying a dynamic work setting.
- Qualifications: No specific qualifications needed, just a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 9.9 - 12.1 £ per hour.
Caf assistants work in one of our nine thriving cafes which are located across Durham University Campus. As a Caf Assistant, you will be working as 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, which includes 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.
We will require you to be punctual, flexible, and willing to work variable shift patterns, including evenings and weekends.
Specific Role Information:
- 30 hours per week x 52 weeks a year, working any 5 days from 7 including weekends. The role is based at Maiden Castle Cafe & Clubroom, but you may be required to work in any location to meet business needs.
- 30 hours per week x 27 weeks per year, working any 5 days from 7 including weekends. The role is based at Small Island Cafe in Bill Bryson Library, but you may be required to work in any location to meet business needs.
How to Apply:
We prefer to receive applications online. When you apply, you need to submit a CV and you will be invited to attend our Open Day on Wednesday 2 September 2026. Please contact us if you do not receive this. We will update you about your application at various points throughout the selection process via automated emails from our e-recruitment system. Please check your spam/junk folder periodically to make sure you have not missed any of our updates.
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, the Operations Directorate Recruitment Team will be happy to speak to you.
Cafe Assistant - Durham employer: Durham University
Durham University is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant academic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. As a Postdoctoral Research Associate in Anthropology, you will benefit from extensive professional development opportunities, a supportive work culture, and the chance to contribute to impactful research that shapes understanding of diverse cultures. Located in a historic city, the university provides a unique setting for both personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cafe Assistant - Durham
✨Get Involved in Local Events
Check out foodie festivals, farmers' markets, and local fairs in your area. These are perfect opportunities to meet restaurant owners and managers face-to-face, and they often look for part-time help during busy seasons.
✨Join Hospitality Groups
Connect with local hospitality groups on social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram. These communities frequently post about part-time job openings that aren’t advertised elsewhere, plus it’s a great way to engage with the food scene in your area!
✨Show Up in Person
For part-time roles in the hospitality sector, don't underestimate the power of a walk-in. Grab your best smile and pop into local cafés or restaurants with your CV in hand. It shows initiative and can really make you stand out!
✨Apply Through Our Website!
Don’t forget to check out the openings at Durham University and apply directly through our website! We love seeing friendly faces and you’ll be surprised how many part-time roles pop up that may not be listed on job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Cafe Assistant - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality and food service industry, showcasing your customer service experience is key. Be sure to highlight relevant roles in your CV or cover letter where you’ve directly engaged with customers—this could be from previous waitressing, barista jobs, or any roles that involved teamwork and communication. You want to convince us at Durham University that you can keep it cool under pressure!
Certifications Matter:If you’ve got any hospitality-related certifications—like food safety or first aid—definitely mention those! Including these credentials can set you apart from other applicants. It shows us that you're serious about the health and safety standards we maintain here at Durham University.
Flexibility is Your Friend:Since this is a part-time role, we’re looking for someone who can work various shifts. In your application, it’s useful to outline your availability clearly. Make it easy for us to see when you can jump in and help out—this shows that you’re committed and ready to adapt!
Let Your Personality Shine:In hospitality, personality plays a vital role. Use your cover letter to share why you’re passionate about food service and what brings you joy in helping customers. A personal touch can make your application memorable and help us at Durham University get a sense of who you are beyond your experience!
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In hospitality, your ability to work with customers and team members is crucial. Be prepared to share stories that highlight your experience in handling customer service situations, especially any tricky ones. We want to hear how you turned a potentially negative experience into a positive one!
✨Know the Menu Inside Out
You might get quizzed on the menu items or asked about your favourite dishes. Brush up on any special offerings at Durham University and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for their food. This shows you’re not just looking for any job, but you’re genuinely excited about working with their team.
✨Flexibility is Key
As you're going for a part-time role, emphasise your availability and willingness to work various shifts. Mention any instances where you've gone above and beyond for scheduling or helped out during busy times. This flexibility can make you stand out from the crowd!
✨Role-Play Scenarios
Be ready for role-play scenarios during your interview! Employers love to see how you handle on-the-spot situations, like dealing with a dissatisfied customer or managing a specific request from a patron. Practising these scenarios with friends can help boost your confidence.
