At a Glance
- Tasks: Support food preparation and deliver a top-notch catering service in a friendly environment.
- Company: Join OCS, a leading facilities management company with a strong commitment to values.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, digital learning, flexible pay options, and exclusive retail perks.
- Other info: Great opportunities for professional growth and a diverse, inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team and make a real difference in customer experiences.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just a positive attitude and willingness to learn!
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 24000 £ per year.
About The Company: OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering. Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values - Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.
Why Work for OCS?
- Award-Winning Employer: Ranked 36th on Glassdoor’s Best Companies to Work For 2025 — we value and motivate our people.
- Digital Learning: The OCS Academy offers digital courses and resources to help you build skills and grow your career.
- Retail Perks: With our Hapi app, you can gain access to exclusive discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources.
- Professional Growth: 600+ live learners across UK&I — Empowering colleagues with further development and qualifications!
- Flexible Pay: Access a portion of earned wages before payday with our Wagestream App! (Contract Specific)
About The Role:
Days of Working: This position will be based at , working. As a Catering Assistant, you will support the delivery of a high‑quality food and hospitality service, helping to create a welcoming and efficient catering environment for customers, clients and colleagues. You will assist with food preparation, service and cleanliness, ensuring standards of hygiene, safety and customer care are consistently met. This role plays an important part in the smooth day‑to‑day operation of catering services, working as part of a team to deliver a professional, friendly and reliable service.
As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- Assist with basic food preparation in line with menu requirements and food safety standards
- Serve food and beverages to customers in a friendly and professional manner
- Support the set‑up and close‑down of catering areas, including counters and seating areas
- Maintain cleanliness of kitchen, service and dining areas
- Wash up utensils, dishes and equipment as required
- Replenish food, beverages and consumables during service periods
- Follow all food safety, health & safety and hygiene procedures at all times
- Use catering equipment safely and correctly
- Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure smooth service delivery
- Provide a positive and customer‑focused experience at all times
The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:
- Right to Work in the UK and willingness to undergo a DBS check.
- Previous experience in a catering, hospitality or food service environment (desirable but not essential)
- A basic understanding of food hygiene and safe handling practices
- A positive, friendly and customer‑focused attitude
- Ability to work well as part of a team in a fast‑paced environment
- Good timekeeping, reliability and a flexible approach to work
- Willingness to follow instructions and procedures
Desirable:
- Level 2 Food Safety or Food Hygiene Certificate (or willingness to undertake training)
- Experience working within Facilities Management (FM) or contract catering services
We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.
Catering Assistant employer: Manchester Arndale
At Manchester Arndale, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer by fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values every team member. Our part-time Evening Cleaner role offers flexible hours, allowing for a great work-life balance while contributing to a safe and welcoming environment for our customers. We are dedicated to employee growth, providing opportunities for training and development within a vibrant retail setting in the heart of Manchester.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant
✨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 Manchester Arndale. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Manchester Arndale
Don't be shy about reaching out to Manchester Arndale 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
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 Manchester Arndale 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 Manchester Arndale
✨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!
