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- Tasks: Serve customers, handle money, and assist with passenger queries in a vibrant retail environment.
- Company: Join the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, a beloved heritage railway in stunning Snowdonia.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible shifts, competitive pay, 28 days holiday, and travel perks on our scenic railways.
- Why this job: Be part of a passionate team and create memorable experiences for visitors in a beautiful setting.
- Qualifications: Team player with good communication skills; retail experience is a plus but not essential.
- Other info: Opportunities for training, progression, and staff discounts in shops and cafes.
The predicted salary is between 11 - 13 £ per hour.
The Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways are two of the UK's most popular heritage railways, located in the heart of picturesque Snowdonia. We operate trains daily from late March to the end of October. We are looking for hardworking, enthusiastic individuals to join our commercial team working in our Porthmadog shop.
We can offer you:
- National Living / Minimum wage for age
- Seasonal contract from 23rd March 2026 to 31st October
- Flexible shifts to suit candidate: minimum 2 days per week, maximum 5 days per week, weekdays and weekends; or weekends and school holidays
- The pro rata equivalent of 28 days paid holiday, inclusive of all bank and public holidays
- Enrolment into the company pension scheme after a qualifying period
- Opportunities for training and progression
- Travel benefits on the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways and staff discounts in shops and cafes.
This role involves serving customers, handling money and answering passenger queries. Some manual handling will be involved in moving stock to and from storerooms to various retail locations. Successful candidates may also be required to work at Beddgelert station selling tickets and souvenirs to passengers. Experience of working in a retail environment would be an advantage but not essential as full training will be provided.
Core Skills:
- Team player
- Good communication skills
- Good basic IT skills, literacy and numeracy
- The ability to work cleanly and tidily
- Experience in a Front of House / retail role is desirable but not essential
- The ability to speak Welsh would be an advantage as would knowledge of the railways and their passengers; and the local area.
The ideal candidate would be flexible and able to work shifts any day of the week, including weekends. This position may require lone working on occasion. Candidates may be required to work in locations not easily accessible by public transport therefore a full driving licence and / or access to private transport would be an advantage. Applicants for these positions must have the existing right to work in the UK.
Retail Assistant employer: Festiniog Railway Company
Contact Detail:
Festiniog Railway Company Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Retail Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, their values, and what makes them tick. This will help you tailor your approach and show genuine interest during any interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former employees on social media platforms. They can provide insider tips and might even give you a heads-up about upcoming opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Prepare for potential interview questions related to customer service and teamwork. Role-playing with a friend can help you feel more confident when it’s your turn to shine.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you’ll find all the latest job openings and updates directly from us.
We think you need these skills to ace Retail Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Enthusiasm: When writing your application, let your passion for the role shine through! We want to see that you're excited about joining our team and working in such a beautiful location. A little enthusiasm goes a long way!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills match what we're looking for. Mention any relevant experience, even if it’s not directly in retail, and show us how you can be a great fit for our commercial team.
Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate a well-structured application! Keep your sentences clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and make sure we can easily see your key skills and experiences that relate to the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Festiniog Railway Company
✨Know the Company
Before your interview, take some time to research the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways. Understand their history, values, and what makes them unique. This will not only help you answer questions more effectively but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
As a Retail Assistant, enthusiasm is key! Be sure to express your passion for customer service and working in a team. Share examples from your past experiences where you went above and beyond for customers or contributed positively to a team environment.
✨Prepare for Common Questions
Think about the types of questions you might be asked, such as how you handle difficult customers or your experience with cash handling. Practise your responses so you can answer confidently and clearly during the interview.
✨Dress Appropriately
Even though this is a retail position, first impressions matter! Dress smartly and appropriately for the interview. It shows that you respect the opportunity and are serious about the role.
