Catering Assistant - Higher Level in Blyth

We have a part‑time position available for a Catering Assistant to join our small team at Blyth Community Hospital. The post is to work 19.5 hrs per week. These hours are usually worked as 3 x 6.5 hr shifts, either 7 am‑2 pm or 11 am‑6 pm and includes working a share of weekends and Bank Holiday dates.

As part of this role, you will be required to maintain the standards of cleanliness as specified throughout the work areas, by means of approved methods. Please note that it is a requirement of Northumbria Healthcare Facilities Management that all successful applicants pay for their own DBS certificate, if a DBS check is required for the post. The method of payment is a salary deduction from your first monthly pay.

The successful candidate will be responsible for:

• The preparation of foodstuffs, general cleaning of equipment and areas within the Catering Department.
• Preparation and service of food to patients on the ward, or to patients, visitors and staff in the dining room.
• Operating in the central dish wash area.
• All areas of catering and serving meals on wards, with full training provided.

Responsibilities include:

• The receipt, checking for quality, temperature, correct quantity as per order to suppliers and the storage of such goods in the appropriate area within the time limits set out in the department policy on HACCP.
• Demonstrating the ability to serve food to staff and checking temperature levels in accordance with Food Temperature Regulations.
• Operating the central dish wash machine, cleaning, drying and checking of the staff/ward crockery and cutlery.
• Preparation of vegetables, fruits and salads.
• Preparation and dispatch of meals.
• Service of food in the restaurant and associated areas, including preparation of sandwiches, hot snacks and beverages where applicable.
• The cleaning and re‑stocking of vending machines.
• Operation of the Staff Dining Room cash register.
• Maintaining an appropriate image/appearance to suit service needs.
• Being self-reliant and flexible in working arrangements to cover for holidays and sickness.
• Cleaning of premises and equipment to the required standard.
• Ensuring compliance with the Food Hygiene Policy and the Codes of Practice.
• Working in a manner that does not contravene the Health and Safety procedures of the Hospital and the Hotel Services Department.
• Participating in training programmes relevant to efficiency, hygiene, fire drills, and the requirements of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

This job description is not exhaustive but gives a broad indication of the main duties. It may be revised in the light of experience and changing circumstances in consultation with the post holder.