Centre Assistant – Part Time Reference: OCT20263062 Location: RSPB The Lodge Reserve, Sandy SG19 Contract: Permanent Hours: Part Time, Min 16 Hours per week Salary: £26,228.00 - £27,999.00 Per Annum, Pro Rata Benefits: Pension Scheme, Life Assurance Scheme, 26 days' Annual Leave (Pro Rata) Are you passionate about delivering great customer experiences and inspired by the natural world? Our busy catering operation at The Lodge Reserve Café is looking for a Catering Assistant to join the team.
We are looking for an individual who can deliver the highest standards of customer care and assist with the day-to-day running of the café operation, in line with set RSPB procedures and routines. The Lodge, Sandy has the largest stretch of heathland in Bedfordshire. This rare habitat is the place to spot some of the reserves iconic species such as breeding Hobby, Ravens, Common lizard and Natterjack toads.
Essential skills, knowledge and experience: Positive work approach - demonstrates enthusiasm and a constructive attitude in day-to-day work. Food hygiene knowledge - good understanding of the principles of safe food handling and hygiene. Communication skills - able to communicate clearly and respectfully with colleagues, customers and partners, both verbally and in writing. Problem-solving - able to identify solutions and use own initiative to respond to challenges.
Customer service - able to understand and respond to customer needs, feedback and concerns. Working under pressure - experience working in a target-driven or fast-paced environment. Till and payment handling - experience using tills, card machines and completing cashing-up procedures. Teamworking - able to work collaboratively and supportively as part of a team You will need to be available to work during the day, weekends, and Bank Holiday working will also be essential.
The shift pattern is 4 hours per day Wednesday to Saturday, 12:30pm-4:30pm. There will be the opportunity to pick up additional hours and in person and online training will be given.
Additional Information:
This is a permanent role, minimum 16 hours per week. The shift pattern is 4 hours per day Wednesday to Saturday , 12:30pm-4:30pm. There will be the opportunity to pick up additional hours and in person and online training will be given. Closing date: Friday December 11th, 2026 at 11:59 PMWe aim to conduct interviews for this position the from the 16th December onwards. Interested? If you would like to find out more, please click the apply button. You will be directed to our website to complete your application for this position.
We are committed to developing an inclusive and diverse RSPB, in which everyone feels supported, valued, and able to be their full selves. To achieve our vision of creating a world richer in nature, we need more people, and more diverse people, on nature's side. People of colour and disabled people are currently underrepresented across the environment, climate, sustainability, and conservation sector. If you identify as a person of colour and/or disabled, we are particularly interested in receiving your application.
The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer. This role is covered by from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. The RSPB is a licenced sponsor. This role not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship. As part of this application process you will be asked to complete an application form including evidence on how you meet the skills, knowledge, and experience listed above. Contact us to discuss any additional support you may need to complete your application. No agencies please.
Centre Assistant in Heathfield employer: RSPB
As a leading employer in the conservation sector, RSPB offers a dynamic work environment in the stunning location of Aviemore, where employees are encouraged to collaborate on impactful landscape restoration projects. With a strong commitment to employee development and a culture that values teamwork and innovation, RSPB provides unique opportunities for growth while making a meaningful difference in the natural world.
