At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our café team to serve delicious food and drinks while creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- Company: Queen Mary University of London, a vibrant hub for students and staff.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, pension scheme, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Opportunity for personal growth in a diverse and inclusive environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a friendly team that enhances the student experience every day.
- Qualifications: Great communication skills and a passion for customer service.
The predicted salary is between 27340 - 29254 £ per year.
The cafes at Queen Mary University of London provide our students, staff, and members of the public with a wide range of cold/hot food and a space to relax, socialise and study. This role will be responsible for helping to deliver the daily operations alongside the rest of the cafe team, taking guidance from the Manager on what needs to be done during each shift.
You should be a 'hands on' team player who is committed to the values of the organisation, being a safe, friendly environment with the student experience at its core. You will need to be flexible and be willing to adapt working hours to suit the needs of the business. Some weekend work could also be required during busy times.
Applicants should have excellent communication skills and the ability to work with a wide range of people. Candidates must have the ability to work well under pressure, and prioritise a varied workload. We strive to improve our offerings to both the student and staff market with a focus being predominantly on sales and customer satisfaction development. You should have excellent interpersonal skills and a keen eye for detail, as well as being committed to the values of the organisation, being a safe, friendly and student led democratic organisation. Applicants would also need to be able to act in an operational capacity on a day-to-day basis and have the ability to open and close the café as and when required.
Queen Mary Students' Union represents and supports over 30,000 students and around 4,500 staff who make up the diverse and vibrant student body at Queen Mary, University of London. Ground cafe is based on our Mile End Campus of the University, close to Mile End and Stepney Green underground station, The Griff is based on our Whitechapel campus, close to Whitechapel overground and underground station, and The Shield is based on our Charterhouse Square campus, close to Barbican underground station.
At Queen Mary University of London, we believe that a diversity of ideas helps us achieve the previously unthinkable. Throughout our history, we've fostered social justice and improved lives through academic excellence. And we continue to live and breathe this spirit today, not because it's simply 'the right thing to do' but for what it helps us achieve and the intellectual brilliance it delivers. We continue to embrace diversity of thought and opinion in everything we do, in the belief that when views collide, disciplines interact, and perspectives intersect, truly original thought takes form.
Benefits include:
- Competitive salaries
- Access to a generous pension scheme
- 30 days' leave per annum (pro-rata for part-time/fixed-term)
- A season ticket loan scheme
- Access to a comprehensive range of personal and professional development opportunities
- A range of work life balance and family friendly, inclusive employment policies
- Campus facilities
- Flexible working arrangements
Valuing Diversity & Committed to Equality
Closing Date: 15/09/2026, 23:55
Café Assistants (Baristas - Operational) in London employer: Queen Mary University of London
Queen Mary University of London is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that champions diversity and innovation in higher education. With competitive salaries, generous leave, and extensive professional development opportunities, employees are supported in their growth while contributing to impactful educational initiatives. Located in the heart of London, the university provides a dynamic environment where technology-enhanced learning thrives, making it an ideal place for those passionate about advancing education through technology.
Contact Details:
Queen Mary University of London Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Café Assistants (Baristas - Operational) in London
✨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 Queen Mary University of London. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Queen Mary University of London
Don't be shy about reaching out to Queen Mary University of London 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 Café Assistants (Baristas - Operational) in London
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 Queen Mary University of London 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 Queen Mary University of London
✨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!
