At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and pack fresh produce in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Company: Join a family-run business that values quality, integrity, and sustainability.
- Benefits: Weekly grocery discounts, birthday leave, early wage access, and career progression.
- Other info: Flexible shifts and a supportive team atmosphere await you!
- Why this job: Be part of a team that takes pride in quality food preparation and safety.
- Qualifications: Experience with knife skills and a good understanding of food hygiene.
The predicted salary is between 27360 - 29120 £ per year.
Location: Camberwell
Full-time: Day Shift
Salary: Starting £13 to £14 (depending on skills)
About Us
At Smith & Brock, we’re not just in the business of fresh produce, we’re in the business of people, relationships, and responsibility. As a proudly family-run company, our values are at the heart of everything we do. We believe in quality without compromise, integrity in every interaction, and sustainability that safeguards the future.
The Role
As a Catering-Prep Operative at Uncle Reg, you’ll be hands-on in our production kitchen preparing, cutting, and packing fresh produce to the highest standards of quality and food safety. If you take pride in your knife work and enjoy being part of a team that keeps things moving, this is the role for you.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Cutting, slicing, and preparing fresh fruit, vegetables, and other produce to specification and portion size
- Packing and labelling finished products accurately, ready for dispatch to customers
- Following recipes, prep sheets, and cutting guides to ensure consistency across every batch
- Maintaining a clean, organised, and hygienic workstation throughout your shift
- Complying with all food safety, HACCP, and allergen procedures at all times
- Working at pace to meet production targets without compromising on quality
- Supporting colleagues across the prep area as needed and contributing to a positive team environment
- Reporting any quality issues, equipment faults, or safety concerns to your line manager promptly
What We’re Looking For
- Hands-on experience with knife skills and cutting techniques, whether from a professional kitchen, catering, or food production background
- A good understanding of food hygiene and safe working practices (a Food Hygiene certificate is a bonus, but not essential)
- Keen attention to detail, portion consistency and presentation matter to our customers
- A reliable, hardworking attitude with the ability to maintain focus and speed over a full shift
- Comfortable working in a chilled production environment
- Flexible and willing to cover both early (7am–4pm) and late (2pm–11pm) shift patterns
- A team player who communicates well and supports those around them
What’s In It for You
- Enjoy a weekly shop of groceries including vegetables and fruit at company price
- Refer a Friend bonus
- Extra day of holiday for your birthday
- Earned Wage Access, early access to your wages before payday
- 30% off at Sylva Café
- Uniform and PPE provided
- Career Progression, we grow our own talent, and many of our team have built long careers with us
Catering-Prep Operative employer: Smith & Brock Ltd
At Smith & Brock, we pride ourselves on being a family-run business that values quality, integrity, and sustainability. As a Catering-Prep Operative in Camberwell, you'll enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises teamwork and personal growth, alongside benefits like a weekly grocery shop at company prices, career progression opportunities, and a birthday holiday. Join us to be part of a dedicated team where your skills are valued and your contributions make a real difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Catering-Prep Operative
✨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 Smith & Brock Ltd. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to Smith & Brock Ltd
Don't be shy about reaching out to Smith & Brock Ltd 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-Prep Operative
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 Smith & Brock Ltd 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 Smith & Brock Ltd
✨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!
