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- Tasks: Assist in the kitchen, preparing meals for residents in need and managing food budgets.
- Company: Join Manchester City Council and make a difference in your community.
- Benefits: Generous holiday allowance, local government pension, and learning opportunities.
- Why this job: Be part of a compassionate team helping those facing homelessness.
- Qualifications: Dynamic individuals with a passion for food and empathy for others.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with support for diverse backgrounds and needs.
The predicted salary is between 10 - 13 £ per hour.
Working Hours: 16 Hours Per Week (Friday, Saturday and Sunday, 09:00 – 14:20)
Contract Type: Part-Time, Permanent
Closing Date: 19 February 2026
Closing time: 11:59pm
Interview Method: Face to Face
Applicants must have existing right to work in the UK, as visa sponsorship is not available for this position.
This role is subject to:
- 2 References – where possible we require 3 years' history.
- DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service) clearance – this post is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (amended in 2013). Appointable candidates will be required to apply for a Standard/Enhanced DBS check.
- Proof of Manchester Residency – Roles at Grade 1 to 3, traineeships, or apprenticeships will initially be advertised to Manchester residents and internal candidates.
Role context: You will assist in the kitchen alongside a cook and prepare meals for up to 45 residents who are homeless. If the cook is absent, you may deputise. The role includes budgets and purchasing food from local vendors within council budgets. You will be based in the on-site kitchen and will complete health and safety in the workplace and cleaning duties. You will join a motivated team and perform a rewarding role helping those in need.
Candidate profile: A dynamic individual who can adapt to changing situations. You will be compassionate and empathic to clients facing homelessness. A qualification in food preparation and cooking or food hygiene is desirable but not essential; a comprehensive training package will be provided.
Organisation: We’re the local council for Manchester. Working for Manchester is an opportunity to contribute to a city that leads change and transforms lives. Our Manchester Is Our Vision For a Fairer, Greener, And Healthier City guides all we do at the Council and is reflected in the Our Manchester Behaviours.
Our Behaviours:
- We take time to listen and understand
- We work together and trust each other
- We value differences and treat others fairly
- We own it and are not afraid to try new things
- We’re proud and passionate about Manchester
Benefits We Offer:
- Generous holiday allowance: up to 26 days annual leave plus bank holidays; increasing to 31 days after five years; option to purchase up to two additional weeks.
- A generous local government pension scheme with life cover of three-times salary as a lump sum.
- Enhanced parental and carers leave and other family leave options.
- Perks and discounts via MCR+ and additional benefits (phone contracts, cycle to work, flu jabs, eye tests, etc.).
- Learning and development opportunities, onboarding, and qualifications.
- Good Employment Charter member with annual pay reviews and wellbeing support.
- Up to 3 days volunteering leave (pro-rata).
Creating an Inclusive Team: Manchester City Council welcomes applications from diverse backgrounds and communities, including Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic communities, Disabled people, and young people.
Support During the Process: Interview adjustments available; notify us if you need adjustments to demonstrate suitability. Accessible formats: ReciteMe available via the Accessibility tools on the careers page for accessibility options.
This role includes: Guaranteed assessment schemes for applicants meeting minimum shortlisting criteria where applicable.
Requirements and Pre-Employment Checks: We require evidence of right to work in the UK before commencement; sponsorship is not available. Pre-employment checks may include: references, proof of qualifications, DBS check, proof of Manchester residency where applicable, police vetting, BPSS clearance, driving licence as required by the role.
Other Relevant Information: We are committed to accessibility and accommodating needs; if a task cannot be completed, we will consider role redesign. For more information, read the role profile attached.
Privacy Notice: See the job posting for details.
Catering Assistant in Manchester employer: Manchester City Council
Contact Detail:
Manchester City Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant in Manchester
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research Manchester City Council and understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your responses during the interview and show that you're genuinely interested in contributing to a fairer, greener city.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills with a friend or family member. Focus on common questions related to teamwork, compassion, and adaptability, as these are key traits for a Catering Assistant. The more comfortable you are, the better you'll perform!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share your experiences! Think of examples from your past that demonstrate your ability to work under pressure, handle budgets, or assist in food preparation. Real-life stories make you memorable and relatable.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you're proactive and keen to join our team at Manchester City Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to get to know the real you, so don’t be afraid to share your experiences and what makes you passionate about helping others.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to read the job description carefully and highlight how your skills and experiences match what we're looking for. This shows us that you’re genuinely interested in the role and understand what it entails.
Keep It Clear and Concise: We appreciate a straightforward application. Stick to the point and avoid fluff. Use clear language and structure your application well so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our official website. This way, we can ensure your application is processed smoothly and you’re considered for the role!
How to prepare for a job interview at Manchester City Council
✨Know Your Role
Make sure you understand the responsibilities of a Catering Assistant. Familiarise yourself with meal preparation, budgeting, and health and safety protocols. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Show Your Compassion
Since you'll be working with vulnerable individuals, it's crucial to demonstrate empathy during your interview. Share any relevant experiences where you've helped others or worked in a team setting, especially in challenging situations.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask the interviewer. This could be about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or how they support staff in their roles. It shows you're engaged and eager to learn more about the position.
✨Be Yourself
Authenticity goes a long way! Be honest about your experiences and what you can bring to the team. The council values diversity and different perspectives, so don’t hesitate to let your personality shine through.
