At a Glance
- Tasks: Serve premium coffee and create memorable experiences for customers.
- Company: Join Houston & Hawkes, an award-winning independent caterer in London.
- Benefits: Earn £15.50 per hour, enjoy free meals, and have your birthday off!
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant team with ongoing training and fun company events.
- Why this job: Work Monday to Thursday with no weekends and grow your career in hospitality.
- Qualifications: Experience in a busy café and a passion for coffee and customer service.
We're Hiring: Vending Assistant with Barista Skills
Location: Central London
Pay Rate: 15.50 per hour
Working Hours: 32 hours per week
Shift Pattern: Monday to Thursday (no weekends!)
Contract Type: 32 hours, Permanent
Houston & Hawkes are looking for a skilled and passionate catering vending assistant with barista skills, to join our team at one of our standout London locations. This is a fantastic opportunity to work in a beautifully designed space with top-tier equipment, serving premium coffee with energy, warmth, and precision. We don't just serve coffee - we create memorable experiences. If you take pride in every cup and enjoy connecting with people, you'll feel right at home here.
About the Role
As a vending operator, you will be responsible for stocking up, cleaning and maintaining the vending equipment. As a Barista, you'll be the face of our coffee offer - greeting guests, crafting beautiful drinks, and ensuring the coffee bar is clean, stocked, and inviting at all times. You'll work in a fast-paced, professional environment where quality and service always come first.
Key Responsibilities:
- Delivering outstanding service with every customer interaction
- Preparing a full range of hot and cold drinks to Houston & Hawkes standards
- Making product recommendations and answering customer questions
- Keeping the coffee bar & vending areas clean, stocked, and organised
- Supporting with food preparation and counter service as needed
- Managing stock levels and flagging orders
- Complying with all food hygiene, health & safety regulations
What We're Looking For:
- Previous experience in a high-volume café or coffee shop
- A genuine passion for coffee and a great customer experience
- Friendly, reliable and professional at all times
- Strong communication and people skills
- Team player with a positive attitude and a can-do approach
- Organised and confident working under pressure
- Ambition to develop and grow within the company
Benefits:
- 15.50 per hour, paid weekly or monthly
- Monday to Thursday working - no weekends!
- Free meals while on duty
- 20 days' holiday plus bank holidays (pro rata)
- Birthday off every year - paid
- Uniform provided
- Contributory pension scheme
- Life assurance (2x salary)
- Access to Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)
- CODE membership - hospitality perks and discounts
- Family-friendly support
- Company events including an all-company Christmas party
- Recognition schemes and employee awards
- Ongoing training and career development
Who We Are:
Houston & Hawkes is a vibrant and growing independent caterer based in the South East. We're proud to be an award-winning, certified B Corp, and one of the Top 30 hospitality companies to work for in the UK. We create memorable experiences through fresh, seasonal food, exceptional service, and a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. From coffee bars and delis to fine dining and bespoke hospitality, we tailor every offer to our clients - and build teams who care deeply about what they do.
Ready to Join?
Apply now and bring your coffee passion to a company that truly values food, service, and people.
Vending Assistant & Barista - London employer: Houston & Hawkes
Houston & Hawkes is an excellent employer for those seeking a fulfilling role in the culinary arts, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises creativity and innovation. With a focus on work-life balance, employees enjoy a structured schedule that allows for personal time while still delivering exceptional service in a modern workplace setting. Opportunities for professional growth and development are abundant, making it an ideal environment for passionate chefs looking to make their mark in Central London.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Vending Assistant & Barista - London
✨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 Houston & Hawkes. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Houston & Hawkes
Don't be shy about reaching out to Houston & Hawkes 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!
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 Houston & Hawkes 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 Houston & Hawkes
✨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!
