At a Glance
- Tasks: Support food preparation and deliver a friendly catering service to customers.
- Company: Join OCS, a leading facilities management company with a supportive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, personal development opportunities, and access to discounts.
- Other info: Flexible hours and great career progression opportunities await you!
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team and make a positive impact on customer experiences.
- Qualifications: No experience needed, just a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
OCS UK & Ireland is a leading facilities management company with 50,000+ colleagues and a turnover in excess of £2bn. We deliver innovative, award-winning services within facilities management, hard services, cleaning, security and catering. Our mission is to make people and places the best they can be for our colleagues, customers and the communities we serve. Our commitment to doing business the right way is rooted in our TRUE values - Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment.
About The Role:
Days of Working: This position will be based at Guild Park, Preston, working Monday - Friday 12:00pm - 18:30pm with 30 minute break. 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. You will assist with food preparation, service and cleanliness, ensuring standards of hygiene, safety and customer care are consistently met. 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.
As part of your role, your key responsibilities will include, but are not limited to:
- 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
The ideal candidate should meet the following criteria:
- 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
- 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
Why join OCS? ⭐ OCS are ranked 36th on Glassdoor’s Best Companies to Work For in 2025, reflecting our commitment to creating a workplace where our colleagues feel supported and valued. 🚀 We are passionate about developing our people. Through the OCS Academy, you’ll have access to learning opportunities that support your personal development and career progression. 🙂 With the Hapi app, you can access a wide range of discounts, rewards and wellbeing resources.
How to Apply:
If you are interested in joining a business that encourages professional development, career progression and the chance to work with inspirational people then please click apply and register your interest! You can also sign up to our job alerts when registering which will notify you when other suitable vacancies are available.
We are an equal opportunities employer and rely on a diverse workforce with a broad range of knowledge, skills, and backgrounds to deliver our goals. We offer an inclusive and welcoming environment and actively encourage applications from all individuals regardless of race, gender, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, disability, or age.
Catering Assistant (General Assistant) (Copy) in Preston employer: OCS Group
At OCS UK & Ireland, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment at our Guild Park location in Preston. Our commitment to employee development is evident through the OCS Academy, which provides numerous learning opportunities for career progression, while our TRUE values of Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment foster a positive workplace culture. Join us to be part of a team that values your contributions and prioritises your wellbeing with benefits like the Hapi app for discounts and rewards.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Assistant (General Assistant) (Copy) in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research OCS UK & Ireland and their TRUE values. When you understand their mission, you can tailor your approach during interviews to show how you align with their goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your customer service skills! As a Catering Assistant, you'll be interacting with customers daily. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to boost your confidence in providing a friendly and professional service.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local job fairs. Building relationships can give you insider tips and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, you can sign up for job alerts to stay updated on new opportunities that fit your skills and interests.
We think you need these skills to ace Catering Assistant (General Assistant) (Copy) in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When you're writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for the role and how you can contribute to our team.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your relevant experience and skills. Mention any previous catering or hospitality roles you've had, even if they were just part-time or voluntary. We love seeing how you fit into our mission!
Follow Instructions:Read the job description carefully and ensure you follow any specific instructions for applying. This shows us that you pay attention to detail and are serious about the opportunity. Plus, it makes our lives easier!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you can easily sign up for job alerts while you’re there!
How to prepare for a job interview at OCS Group
✨Know Your Role
Before the interview, make sure you understand the key responsibilities of a Catering Assistant. Familiarise yourself with food preparation, hygiene standards, and customer service expectations. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working as part of a team, be ready to share examples of how you've collaborated with others in previous jobs. Highlight your ability to support colleagues and contribute to a positive work environment, which aligns with the company's TRUE values.
✨Demonstrate Your Customer Focus
Prepare to discuss how you would create a welcoming atmosphere for customers. Think of specific instances where you've gone above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction, as this is crucial in catering and hospitality roles.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, training opportunities, or what a typical day looks like. This shows your enthusiasm for the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
