At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to provide a top-notch catering service for students and visitors.
- Company: Heriot-Watt University, a welcoming and diverse environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy 28 days annual leave, flexible hours, and competitive pay.
- Other info: Flexible working patterns available; perfect for students!
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience in a dynamic setting while serving your university community.
- Qualifications: Great communication skills and a passion for customer service.
Description
Role
Catering Assistant.
Grade and Salary
Grade 3: £24,546 per annum (pro rata if part-time).
Holiday Entitlement
28 days annual leave plus 9 building-closed days (and Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday). Use our total rewards calculator: Total rewards calculator | Heriot-Watt University to see the value of benefits provided by Heriot-Watt University.
Shifts Available
Hours flexible, 5 days from 7 – All weekly rosters subject to change (occasional weekend work required).
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Provide and assist with the provision of professional, welcoming, high quality, flexible catering service to students, colleagues and visitors to the University across all areas.
- Preparation and pre-service activities prior to the opening of an outlet or the start of an event.
- Operate the outlet tills – including include taking payments whether cash, credit, contactless or cashless.
- Replenish, clean and service vending machines as trained and per procedures.
- Assist with ordering, receiving and storing food deliveries and stock counting.
- Assist as directed with basic food preparation readying outlets for service, producing prepare to order items – both hot and cold, creation and production of salads, sandwiches, coffees and other items as instructed.
- Preparation, safe operation and cleaning of small items of equipment – to include soup kettles, coffee machines, ice machines, blenders, dishwashers, countertop ovens, toasters etc used daily within the outlets.
- Function Waiting/ service to table, Bar Service, (with relevant training), and assistance with buffet service when required.
- Follow all laid down processes and procedures relating to food preparation, health, hygiene and welfare, temperature checking and waste management. To work within and to be aware of EH, COSHH and Health and Safety Guidelines.
- Maintain a high standard of personal hygiene and work in a clean and tidy manner. Uniform must be always kept clean & presentable.
- Front and back of house cleaning activities as & when necessary.
- Any other relevant duties which may be required from time to time or as the service develops and adapts which may be reasonably expected of the post holder.
Essential Criteria
- Demonstrable ability to speak and understand English to follow verbal and written instructions and deal with customer/student queries
- Well-developed interpersonal skills
- Delivers excellent customer service, with a professional and courteous approach
- Ability to work quickly, flexibly and accurately
- Good attention to detail
- Sufficient physical ability to carry out the duties of the post, including bending, standing, walking, lifting, carrying, pushing and pulling.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience of working within a similar environment
- Experience of operating relevant catering and or cleaning equipment
Eligibility
Where the post holder is in possession of a valid UK Driving License, they will be required to register it with the University Insurance services and drive University Vehicles when required to facilitate the provision of services.
Flexible Working
We welcome and will consider flexible working patterns e.g., part-time working and job share options.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised, and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.
Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our university community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups. For more information, please see our website https://www.hw.ac.uk/uk/services/equality-diversity.htm and also our award-winning work in Disability Inclusive Science Careers https://disc.hw.ac.uk/.
Benefits Calculator
Use our total rewards calculator: https://www.hw.ac.uk/about/work/total-rewards-calculator.htm to see the value of benefits provided by Heriot-Watt University.
About Heriot-Watt University
At Heriot-Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team.
Our flourishing community will give you the freedom to challenge and to bring your enterprising mind and to help our partners with solutions that can be applied now and in the future. Join us and Heriot Watt will provide you with a platform to thrive and work in a way that also helps you live your life in balance with well-being and inclusiveness at the heart of our global community.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Catering Assistant in Kilmarnock employer: Heriot-Watt University
Heriot-Watt University is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for a Paralegal to shape and grow the University's legal function while working in a vibrant, diverse environment at our Edinburgh campus. With 33 days of annual leave, a commitment to employee well-being, and a focus on professional development, you will gain invaluable experience across various legal areas and contribute to impactful projects within a globally recognised institution. Join us to be part of a supportive community that values inclusivity and encourages career growth in a dynamic, international setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant in Kilmarnock
✨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 Heriot-Watt University. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Heriot-Watt University
Don't be shy about reaching out to Heriot-Watt University 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 Catering Assistant in Kilmarnock
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 Heriot-Watt University 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 Heriot-Watt University
✨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!
