At a Glance
- Tasks: Supervise daily catering operations and deliver excellent service to students and staff.
- Company: Join the vibrant team at Plumpton College, a hub for learning and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, pension scheme, gym access, and lifestyle perks.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for career growth and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing catering team and make a difference in student life.
- Qualifications: Catering qualification or experience, Food Hygiene Certificate, and strong customer service skills.
The predicted salary is between 26400 - 30000 £ per year.
We are looking for a professional, hardworking and confident Catering Supervisor to join our busy in-house Catering team at Plumpton College. This is an important role supporting the day-to-day running of our main College dining room, which is at the heart of our campus near Lewes, East Sussex. The dining room provides a three-meal service for residential students and is the main hub for lunch service for students, staff and visitors. You will also support provision at the Graze Café in our AgriFood building, as well as helping to deliver catering for meetings, events and functions across the College.
This is an exciting time to join Plumpton College as we continue to grow our catering offer to meet the needs of our students and expand our commercial conference and events activity.
What you'll be doing:
- Supporting the day‑to‑day running of the main dining room and other catering outlets
- Delivering a friendly, high‑quality service to students, staff and visitors
- Supervising cleanliness, food safety and hygiene standards across catering areas
- Monitoring cleaning records, food temperatures, stock control and portion control
- Supporting catering for meetings, events and functions, including some evenings and weekends
- Providing cover across other College catering outlets when required
- Undertaking manual handling duties as part of the role
What we're looking for:
- Has a catering qualification or relevant catering experience
- Holds a current Food Hygiene Certificate
- Has at least two years' experience in a similar role
- Has a passion for good food and a high‑quality customer experience
- Can demonstrate excellent customer service skills
- Is outgoing, approachable and flexible
- Works well as part of a team
- Can stay calm and effective under pressure
Why Join Us?
At Plumpton College, we live our values - Ambitious, Professional, Enterprising, Passionate, Supportive and Progressive - in everything we do. You’ll benefit from a competitive salary alongside a generous benefits package. Staff have access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, comprehensive CPD opportunities, and a supportive working environment. As a Disability Confident Committed employer and a signatory of the Menopause Pledge, we are proud to foster an inclusive workplace.
New colleagues benefit from a structured induction and supported probationary period, as well as a strong coaching culture with in-house Level 5 trained coaches. Employees also enjoy a range of lifestyle and wellbeing benefits such as eligibility for a TOTUM card and Blue Light Card, free eye tests, free use of our onsite gym, cycle‑to‑work scheme, discounted Plumpton wine and courses, free onsite parking, access to competitively priced dining facilities, and an Employee Assistance Programme.
Our commitment to staff wellbeing and community is further demonstrated through regular networking events, active EDI and Sustainability committees, and social events at Christmas.
Basic working hours are five days over a seven‑day rota, to include possible weekends (one or two per month). Hours are approximately 7.00am to 4.00pm or 10.00am to 7.00pm. Some flexibility will be required to meet the needs of the business and therefore weekend and evening working will be required. Hours and working times will be agreed with the Catering Supervisor, based on the needs of the business.
This is an all‑year‑round role. Some evening, weekend and holiday period working will be required to support catering functions, student activities, recruitment events and wider college activities.
We reserve the right to interview or close the vacancy early should we receive a high number of applications. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Plumpton College is committed to the promotion of equal opportunities and is dedicated to pursuing non‑discriminatory policies and practices and eliminating unfair discrimination on any basis. Plumpton is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of learners and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Employment cannot begin until the appropriate DBS clearance has been received and considered.
Catering Supervisor employer: Plumpton College
Plumpton College is an excellent employer that prioritises inclusivity and professional growth, making it a rewarding place for those passionate about supporting learners with special educational needs. With a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits including a pension scheme and employee assistance programme, and a strong commitment to continuous professional development, employees can thrive in a supportive work culture that values their contributions. Located in a vibrant educational environment, this role offers unique opportunities to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while advancing your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering Supervisor
✨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 Plumpton College. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Plumpton College
Don't be shy about reaching out to Plumpton 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 Supervisor
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 Plumpton 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 Plumpton 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!
