At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive and deliver food, beverages, and equipment while assisting the catering team.
- Company: Join a vibrant event catering team at a leading university.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, 42 days annual leave, and flexible working hours.
- Other info: Great opportunity for personal development and teamwork in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of exciting events and make customers happy with delicious food.
- Qualifications: Experience in hospitality, a clean UK driving licence, and a customer-focused attitude.
The predicted salary is between 26093 - 26093 £ per year.
Salary: £26,093 per annum
Closing Date: 26 July 2026
The Role
Driver & General Assistant for the Event Catering team, responsible for driving and delivering food, beverages and equipment across the campus and assisting other catering units as required.
Key Accountabilities
- Prepare, serve, sell and deliver quality food and beverages to meet the demand of customers, ensuring items are replenished and portion control is exercised in line with Service Policy and Procedure.
- Clean and maintain designated catering areas and equipment in line with pre‑determined cleaning schedules and frequencies.
- Follow Statutory Food Hygiene, Health and Safety and Liquor Licensing Legislation, and University policies and procedures to ensure a clean, safe and secure environment.
- Identify and report defects, damage or hazards and take immediate action to warn others or remove hazards.
- Assist with receipt of incoming stock, issue and control using predetermined checklists, pricing and product rotation.
- Deal with customer queries or complaints ensuring satisfaction, referring complex matters to line manager.
- Participate in training courses designed to improve personal skill levels and knowledge.
Essential
- Experience of working in hospitality and catering environment.
- Literate and numerate.
- Clean, valid UK driving licence.
Desirable
- Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) and Manual Handling Training.
- Barista Training.
- Knowledge of Health and Safety.
Attributes and Behaviour
- Customer focused approach.
- Ability to communicate clearly.
- Good team worker and able to work alone.
- Flexible and adaptable approach.
- Standards orientated.
- Ability to prioritise workload and remain calm under pressure.
- Positive approach to personal and skill development.
- Ability to work in other locations as required.
- Reliable and dependable.
- Smart appearance.
Qualifications
- Food Safety for Caterers Level 2 Certificate.
- British Institute of Cleaning Science (BICS) - Food Premises Cleaning Certificate.
Employment & Benefits
This is a permanent, full‑time position (37 hours per week). Normal working days are Monday to Friday, with core hours 10am to 6pm, but you may be required to work weekends, evenings and overtime during events such as Open Days. You will benefit from 42 days annual leave per year (including 30 days leave plus 4‑day Christmas closure and 8).
Driver & General Assistant employer: Newcastle University
Join our dynamic Event Catering team as a Driver & General Assistant, where you will enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. With a competitive salary, generous annual leave, and opportunities for training in hospitality and food safety, we ensure our staff are well-equipped and valued. Located on a vibrant campus, you'll be part of a collaborative environment that fosters teamwork and customer satisfaction, making every day rewarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Driver & General 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 Newcastle University. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Newcastle University
Don't be shy about reaching out to Newcastle University 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 Driver & General 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 Newcastle University 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 Newcastle University
✨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!
