At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teaching sessions and manage catering resources for hands-on learning.
- Company: Join North Hertfordshire College, a vibrant educational institution.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, term-time hours, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth and to work with young people.
- Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while working in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Passion for hospitality and strong communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 24755 - 24755 £ per year.
Employer: North Hertfordshire College
Location: Stevenage, Hertfordshire
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Contract Length: Permanent
Salary: £24,755 per annum FTE, plus benefits
Job Type: Permanent
Hours: 37 hours per week, working 38 weeks per year (may include evenings and weekends)
Location: Hitchin & Stevenage
About the Role:
We’re excited to be looking for a passionate and driven Hospitality & Catering Technician to join our team on a term-time only basis. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and enjoy supporting young people to achieve their potential, this could be the perfect role for you!
We’re looking for someone who:
- Loves working with young people and is motivated to help them succeed through education and hands-on learning
- Brings a professional, friendly, and approachable attitude, with excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Is highly organised, detail-focused, and capable of thriving under pressure
What You’ll Be Doing:
In this varied and rewarding role, you will:
- Support teaching sessions by ensuring practical areas, equipment, and resources are fully prepared and ready for classes
- Manage stock effectively, including rotation, issuing, and returning items, while upholding excellent food safety standards
- Take ownership of ordering supplies and checking deliveries in the absence of the main Catering Technician
- Work closely with tutors to maintain high-quality practical spaces, including cleaning and laundry support
- Play a key role in reception support—handling calls, managing bookings, and assisting staff and students including SEND students based at both sites
- Step up to provide cover for the Catering Technician during periods of leave
About the Organisation:
The College operates across three main campuses in Stevenage and Hitchin, employing over 650 staff. With a turnover of £30m, the college provides learning opportunities to over 10,000 students each year from study programmes for 16-18 year olds and apprenticeships through to adult provision locally, regionally and nationally. We were judged Good by Ofsted at our last inspection in December 2023, with outstanding features.
Role and Responsibilities:
- Deal effectively with staff and learners on a daily basis and advise on availability of services
- Ensure that sufficient stock is available across all of the Catering outlets
- Manage and maintain a stock control system that ensures that products are effectively replenished.
- Undertake stocktaking at appropriate points and at the end of the college financial/academic year.
- Working with the lecturers managing and organising the Restaurant Diary and Deli and Hub bookings, including group bookings and special events including Christmas
- Dealing with maintenance requests and liaising with Estates, HoC, DHoC and Commercial Manager regarding problems and issues with equipment and services
- Stock control and goods ordering using the college finance system
- Receiving and checking in and safe storage of all deliveries following correct safe practices
- Liaising with all tutors regarding teaching requests for ingredients, products and equipment in a timely manner and preparation of these materials for classes and restocking for the following day
- Working with the rest of the team to ensure that all marketing material is distributed both internally and externally
- Working alongside the HoC, DHoC and Commercial Manager ensuring that all Environmental Health paperwork is completed and updated regularly
- Liaising with all suppliers regarding deliveries, supplies and prices, and meeting with reps where applicable
- Support in the running of the kitchens whenever required, including laundry, day to day cleaning duties and using the dishwasher during meal service
- Assisting the tutors when required during practical teaching sessions including working with students
- Cleaning, organisation and re-stocking of dry storage area and fridges and freezers
- Ensure that stocks are kept secure at all times.
- Maintain high standards of health and safety at all times an in accordance with the college and curriculum area policy.
- Notify line manager or appropriate manager of any risks or concerns about health and safety.
- Checks to ensure that all equipment is in working order and contacting the appropriate company when repairs are required.
- Provide cover in the absence Hospitality & Catering staff in other areas if required including Hitchin
General duties:
- To contribute to the effective management and promotion of equality and diversity
- To work in accordance with the Health & Safety at Work Act, ensuring the College is a safe environment for staff, students and visitors.
- To promote with staff and students the importance of safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable adults they are responsible for and come into contact with.
- To work at all times in accordance with North Hertfordshire College’s policies and procedures.
- To carry out such duties as may be required from time to time by the college that are appropriate to the grade of the post
This job description is intended as a general guide to the duties attached to the post and is not an inflexible specification.
Safeguarding Statement:
The Hart Learning Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. Successful applicants will be required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, as our posts are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020. It is also an offence to apply for a role if you have been barred from working with children, young people and vulnerable adults. If you have been shortlisted for a role and are within the guidelines of KCSIE, an online search will be carried out to identify any incidents or issues that have happened and are publicly available online. If any incidents or issues are identified, the Group might want to explore these with you at the interview. As part of the recruitment process, you will need to provide proof of their right to work in the UK.
Catering Technician in Hitchin employer: North Hertfordshire College
North Hertfordshire College is an exceptional employer that values its staff and fosters a supportive work culture in the heart of Stevenage. With a commitment to employee development, you will have access to growth opportunities and resources to enhance your HR expertise while contributing to a diverse community of around 600 staff members. The college prioritises legal compliance and stakeholder engagement, ensuring a rewarding and impactful experience for all employees.
Contact Details:
North Hertfordshire College Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Technician in Hitchin
✨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 North Hertfordshire College. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to North Hertfordshire College
Don't be shy about reaching out to North Hertfordshire College 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 Technician in Hitchin
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 North Hertfordshire College 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 North Hertfordshire College
✨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!