At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in food prep, serve meals, and maintain a clean catering environment.
- Company: Join a supportive team at Lakeside Mental Health Unit.
- Benefits: Access to learning opportunities, discounts, and wellbeing resources.
- Other info: Flexible weekend hours with potential for training in food safety.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact while gaining valuable experience in catering.
- Qualifications: Customer-focused attitude and ability to work in a fast-paced team.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 £ per hour.
This position is based at Lakeside Mental Health Unit, Isleworth, working Saturday - Sunday 4pm - 7:30pm. 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. 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.
Key Responsibilities
- 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.
Ideal Candidate
- 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.
- Allergen knowledge.
- 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.
Benefits
OCS is committed to creating a supportive workplace. You can access learning opportunities through the OCS Academy and a range of discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources via the Hapi app. We are an equal opportunities employer and we encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds.
Weekend Catering Assistant (General Assistant) in London employer: Manchester Arndale
At OCS, we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment at our Lakeside Mental Health Unit in Isleworth. As a Weekend Catering Assistant, you will not only contribute to a high-quality food service but also benefit from access to learning opportunities through the OCS Academy, alongside a variety of discounts and wellbeing resources via the Hapi app. Join us to be part of a team that values professionalism, collaboration, and a positive customer experience.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Weekend Catering Assistant (General Assistant) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Lakeside Mental Health Unit and OCS. Understanding their values and mission can help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your skills and experiences align with the role of a Catering Assistant, especially your customer service skills and teamwork abilities.
✨Tip Number 3
Dress the part! Even though it’s a catering role, showing up smartly dressed can make a great first impression. It shows that you take the opportunity seriously and are ready to represent the high-quality service they aim for.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way. It not only shows your appreciation but also keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision. And remember, apply through our website for the best chance!
We think you need these skills to ace Weekend Catering Assistant (General Assistant) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality:When writing your application, let your friendly and positive attitude shine through. We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you don’t have direct catering experience, think about any roles where you’ve worked in a team or provided customer service. We love seeing how your past experiences can translate into this role!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure to answer any questions directly and avoid unnecessary fluff. This helps us get to know you better!
Apply Through Our Website:Make sure 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 role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester Arndale
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the key responsibilities of a Catering Assistant. Understand what it means to support food preparation, serve customers, and maintain cleanliness. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Off Your Customer Service Skills
Since this role is all about providing a positive experience, think of examples from your past where you've delivered excellent customer service. Be ready to share how you handled difficult situations or went the extra mile for a customer.
✨Brush Up on Food Safety Knowledge
Even if you don’t have formal qualifications, having a basic understanding of food hygiene and safety practices is crucial. Be prepared to discuss any relevant knowledge you have, and express your willingness to learn more if needed.
✨Teamwork is Key
This position requires collaboration with colleagues, so be ready to talk about your experience working in teams. Share specific examples of how you contributed to a team’s success and how you handle working in a fast-paced environment.
