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- Tasks: Join our team to deliver friendly and efficient catering services to students and guests.
- Company: We are a vibrant catering service dedicated to providing exceptional dining experiences.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible shifts, a supportive team environment, and the chance to meet new people.
- Why this job: Perfect for those who love teamwork and want to gain experience in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to learn!
- Other info: Attend our Recruitment Open Day on 02 September, 2025, for an informal chat.
Food Service Assistant – Durham
T he Role
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 food service and dining areas 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.
Specific Role Information
We will require you to be punctual, flexible and willing to work variable shift patterns, including evenings and weekends. Example of the shifts are breakfast/lunch 7.30am-3pm, lunch 10am-3pm and dinner 4.30pm-8pm with on occasion finishing at 10pm if there is a function taking place.
We have multiple vacancies available, varying between 9, 10, 12, 16 or 25 hours per week. Some of these contracts are for 52 weeks, and others for 32 weeks (Term time only contracts).
Open day
Applicants will be invited to attend our Recruitment Open Day for an informal interview on Wednesday 08 April 2026. You will receive an email invite to this Open Day, please contact us if you do not receive this.
Further information about the role and the responsibilities is at the bottom of this job description.
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 systems and administration team would be happy to speak to you: .
Food Service Assistant - Durham employer: Durham University
Contact Detail:
Durham University Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Service Assistant - Durham
✨Tip Number 1
Make sure to showcase your teamwork skills during the informal interview at the Recruitment Open Day. Highlight any previous experience where you worked collaboratively in a fast-paced environment, as this role heavily relies on effective teamwork.
✨Tip Number 2
Be prepared to discuss your flexibility and availability for various shift patterns. Since the role requires working evenings and weekends, demonstrating your willingness to adapt to different schedules will make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with basic food safety and hygiene practices before the open day. Being knowledgeable about these topics will show your commitment to maintaining a clean and safe working environment, which is crucial for this position.
✨Tip Number 4
During the open day, engage with current staff or management if possible. Asking insightful questions about their experiences can not only provide you with valuable information but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the organisation.
We think you need these skills to ace Food Service Assistant - Durham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Food Service Assistant position. Highlight key skills such as teamwork, punctuality, and flexibility in your application.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects relevant experience in catering or food service. Emphasise any previous roles where you demonstrated excellent customer service, teamwork, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention your willingness to work variable shifts and your commitment to maintaining high standards in food service and cleanliness.
Prepare for the Open Day: Since there is an open day for informal interviews, prepare by thinking about questions you might want to ask and practice discussing your relevant experiences. This will help you make a great impression during your conversation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Durham University
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a Food Service Assistant, you'll be part of a team. Highlight your ability to work collaboratively and share examples of how you've contributed to a positive team environment in the past.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility
Since the role requires variable shift patterns, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt to different working hours, including evenings and weekends.
✨Emphasise Attention to Detail
The job involves maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organisation. Be ready to talk about how you ensure that food service areas are tidy and safe, and provide examples from previous experiences.
✨Prepare for Physical Demands
This role includes manual handling tasks. Mention any relevant experience you have with physical work, and express your readiness to handle the demands of lifting and transporting catering equipment.