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- Tasks: Keep the café clean, serve customers, and create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Company: Join the Isle of Wight Steam Railway for a unique work experience.
- Benefits: Competitive pay and a friendly working environment in a historic setting.
- Other info: Flexible hours with a chance to work in a dynamic team.
- Why this job: Be part of a charming café experience surrounded by beautiful scenery.
- Qualifications: Great communication skills and a positive attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 12 £ per hour.
Come and join the Isle of Wight Steam Railway and be a part of a team that delivers an exceptional experience, amidst the charm of historic steam trains and beautiful scenery.
As a Café Assistant you will work in the Whistlestop Cafe to ensure that the main hosting areas are clean, tidy and the catering areas fully stocked. You will be friendly and personable with customers in order to provide great customer service, and be proactive in ensuring that our customers have a positive, memorable and inspiring café experience.
Hours: 16 hours per week – Tuesday - Friday - 10am to 2pm
Location: Havenstreet, Isle of Wight
Contract Type: Permanent part time
Salary: National Minimum Wage
Main Purpose of Role
As a Whistlestop Café Assistant you will work in the Whistlestop Café to keep the main eating and drinking areas clean and tidy at all times, whilst helping to create a friendly professional atmosphere.
Your Responsibilities
- Clearing tables promptly and efficiently after customers finish their meals
- Cleaning and sanitising tables, chairs and other surfaces to maintain a hygienic dining area
- Assist in keeping the café area, including floors and counter spaces clean and organised
- Work collaboratively with kitchen and service staff to ensure smooth operations
- Support with inventory management and restocking supplies as necessary
- Comply with health and safety standards, including food hygiene practices
- Assist with the set up and breakdown of catering events on site if/when required
- Be knowledgeable about menu items to answer any customer questions and make recommendations
About You
We’re looking for enthusiastic individuals who:
- Have excellent communication and customer service skills
- Have their own transport
- Are a key team player with a positive attitude
What we Offer
- A chance to work in a beautiful, unique and historic environment
- Competitive pay
- Friendly professional working environment
How to Apply
If you are passionate about food and customer service and want to be a part of a unique experience at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway, please send your CV and a brief cover letter to catering manager Stuart Angus: catering@iwsteamrailway.co.uk
Closing date: Wednesday 29th April 2026 – 17:00
Front of house Café Assistant - Isle of Wight Steam Railway in Ryde employer: Isle of Wight Steam Railway
Contact Detail:
Isle of Wight Steam Railway Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Front of house Café Assistant - Isle of Wight Steam Railway in Ryde
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the café and its vibe! Before your interview, pop in for a coffee and observe how the staff interact with customers. This will help you understand the atmosphere and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of the team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! Think about how you would handle different scenarios, like a busy rush or a customer complaint. Being prepared to demonstrate your friendly and proactive approach can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current employees if you can! They might give you insider tips on what the café is looking for in a candidate. Plus, it shows that you're keen to fit into the team and understand their dynamics.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for food and customer service in your cover letter – we love seeing that passion!
We think you need these skills to ace Front of house Café Assistant - Isle of Wight Steam Railway in Ryde
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality: When writing your cover letter, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to share why you’re excited about working at the Whistlestop Café and how you can contribute to our friendly atmosphere.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience that matches the role of a Café Assistant. We love seeing examples of your customer service skills and teamwork, so sprinkle in those details that show you’re the perfect fit for our café!
Keep It Concise: While we appreciate a good story, keep your application clear and to the point. A couple of well-crafted paragraphs in your cover letter will do the trick—just enough to grab our attention without overwhelming us!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Isle of Wight Steam Railway
✨Know the Café Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you’re familiar with the Whistlestop Café’s menu and services. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
Prepare examples of how you've provided excellent customer service in the past. Think about times when you went above and beyond for a customer, as this is key for a role that focuses on creating memorable experiences.
✨Dress the Part
Even though it’s a café environment, first impressions matter! Dress smartly and appropriately for the interview to convey professionalism and respect for the opportunity.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the team dynamics or how they ensure a positive customer experience. It shows you’re engaged and serious about the position.