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- Tasks: Join our team as a Kitchen Assistant, supporting chefs and ensuring food safety.
- Company: Serco delivers essential services that impact lives, offering a supportive work culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, bank holidays off, and discounts on various services.
- Why this job: Make a difference in a meaningful role while working in a friendly, tight-knit team.
- Qualifications: Basic computer skills and experience in high-pressure catering environments are essential.
- Other info: Training provided for food safety and allergen control; opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 19600 - 27300 £ per year.
Here at Gatwick Immigration Removal Centre we have an exciting opportunity for a General Kitchen Assistant to join our Catering team.
As a Kitchen Assistant, you will provide and carry out catering services, in accordance with all relevant and current regulations, legislation and guidelines. To enable the catering operation to provide all services by supporting the Head Chefs and Chefs.
Some of the key responsibilities of the role include:
- To assist in ensuring Health and Safety and Food Hygiene Regulations are strictly observed and controlled.
- To ensure the security and food safety of all foodstuffs are maintained during delivery, storage and distribution within the establishment. Food waste is disposed of and recycled via approved methods.
- To prepare and cook varied and healthy menus for detainees to include special diets, special day and religious events as directed by the Head Chef.
- To perform random Quality Checks on serveries before, during and after mealtimes where required.
- To train for and carry out any other work reasonably acceptable within the capabilities of the post holder including ordering of all foodstuffs and consumables for all catering services.
What you need to do the job:
The successful post holder must have some basic computer skills including knowledge of Excel, Word and Outlook applications. They must have strong interpersonal skills with good oral and written communication. It is important that they have good problem-solving skills. Understanding risk and conflict management is key within this role. It is essential they have demonstrable experience of working in a high-pressured catering operation and within tight deadlines.
Preferred Qualifications, however, all training will be given:
- Food Safety level 2 or 3
- Awareness of Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP)
- Awareness of allergen control within catering
What we offer:
- A competitive salary
- Bank holidays off
- Up to 6% contributory pension scheme
- Serco benefits package including cinema, Merlin entertainment and online shopping discounts, discounts on mobile phone plans and leisure centre memberships.
- An autonomous and supportive culture
- Working in a tight-knit, friendly team environment
Why Serco:
- Meaningful and vital work - The nature of our business means you will do interesting work that matters - delivering essential services that touch people's lives.
- A world of opportunity - Our diverse UK-wide operations offer unrivalled opportunities to learn and develop. You'll be able to broaden your experience and apply your skills in new ways.
- Great people - You'll become an integral member of a well-defined and supportive team who believe passionately in the value of our work.
Kitchen Assistant - Gatwick IRC employer: Serco Limited
Contact Detail:
Serco Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant - Gatwick IRC
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific health and safety regulations related to food handling and catering. This knowledge will not only help you in the role but also demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high standards during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Gain some hands-on experience in a busy kitchen environment, if you haven't already. This could be through volunteering or part-time work, as it will give you practical insights into the fast-paced nature of catering operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your computer skills, especially Excel and Word, as these are essential for managing orders and documentation. Consider taking a short online course to boost your confidence and proficiency.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your problem-solving skills during the interview. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully navigated challenges in a kitchen setting, as this will showcase your ability to thrive under pressure.
We think you need these skills to ace Kitchen Assistant - Gatwick IRC
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Kitchen Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experience and skills that match what they are looking for.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any previous experience in catering or kitchen environments. Mention specific tasks you have performed that relate to food safety, hygiene regulations, and working under pressure.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to include your computer skills, particularly with Excel, Word, and Outlook, as well as your interpersonal and communication skills. Provide examples of how you've used these skills in past roles.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention why you want to work at Gatwick IRC and how you can contribute to their catering team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Serco Limited
✨Know Your Catering Basics
Familiarise yourself with basic food safety and hygiene regulations. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of HACCP and allergen control, as these are crucial in a kitchen environment.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
Since strong communication is key for this role, think of examples where you've effectively worked in a team or resolved conflicts. This will demonstrate your ability to fit into their tight-knit team.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Prepare to share specific instances where you've successfully tackled challenges in a high-pressure catering setting. This will highlight your capability to manage stress and meet tight deadlines.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions about the team dynamics or the types of menus you might be preparing. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
