At a Glance
- Tasks: Support our catering team in preparing and serving delicious meals for patients and visitors.
- Company: Join a welcoming Bistro launching in Summer 2026, focused on community and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Flexible shifts, inclusive workplace, and support for applicants with disabilities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in hospitality while making a positive impact on the community.
- Qualifications: Experience in a kitchen or a strong interest in starting a hospitality career.
The predicted salary is between 25550 - 25550 £ per year.
We are recruiting a Kitchen Assistant to support our catering team in delivering nutritious, appetising meals for patients, staff and visitors. This role will also contribute to the opening team for our new Bistro, Seasons @ St. Luke’s by AnuragFoodStory, launching in Summer 2026. The Bistro will offer a welcoming environment for the local community and provide opportunities for professional development within an innovative hospitality setting. We encourage applications from individuals at all stages of their careers.
In this role you will:
- Support preparation of ingredients and simple meal components in line with recipes and portion controls to ensure consistent quality and presentation.
- Assist with plating, portioning and serving meals following established hygiene and dietary guidelines.
- Carry out basic food preparation tasks such as washing, peeling, chopping and weighing ingredients safely and efficiently.
- Ensure correct storage, labelling and rotation of stock to maintain freshness and reduce waste.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness in the kitchen and food preparation areas, complying with Food Hygiene Regulations and internal policies.
- Operate kitchen equipment under supervision and report any faults or safety concerns promptly.
- Support deliveries, unpacking and stock rotation and assist with simple inventory checks and record keeping.
- Work closely with chefs, clinical and domestic teams to help meet meal service schedules and respond to special dietary requests.
- Adhere to all organisational policies including health and safety, confidentiality and infection control procedures.
The successful candidate will:
- Have previous experience in a kitchen, catering or food preparation setting, or demonstrate a strong interest in starting a career in hospitality.
- Hold, or be willing to obtain, a recognised food hygiene qualification (Level 2 Food Safety in Catering or equivalent).
- Demonstrate practical food preparation skills, attention to detail and the ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately.
- Be organised, reliable and able to work effectively as part of a team under time constraints.
- Have good communication skills and a positive, flexible approach to work.
- Be willing to work a variety of shifts, which may include early starts, occasional evenings and weekends as service needs require.
- Be able to perform manual handling tasks and stand for extended periods; reasonable adjustments can be discussed where needed.
Salary: £24,274.98-£25,550 per annum (depending on experience)
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time, 7:30am–3:30pm or 11am‑7pm shifts, with occasional evenings and weekends as required.
Location: Thurrock Hospice
Right to work: Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK. We are unable to sponsor work permits or visas.
Belonging, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion: We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace that values diversity. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and particularly encourage individuals from under‑represented groups to apply. Adjustments can be made to support applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment process.
Kitchen Assistant - Thurrock employer: St Luke’s Hospice
Join our dedicated team at Thurrock Hospice, where we prioritise a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and encourages professional growth. As a Kitchen Assistant, you will play a vital role in delivering nutritious meals while benefiting from opportunities to develop your skills in an innovative hospitality environment, particularly with the exciting launch of our new Bistro, Seasons @ St. Luke’s. We offer competitive salaries, flexible shifts, and a commitment to employee well-being, making us an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the culinary field.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Kitchen Assistant - Thurrock
✨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 St Luke’s Hospice. It’s a fun way to stand out and demonstrate what you bring to the table!
✨Reach Out Directly to St Luke’s Hospice
Don't be shy about reaching out to St Luke’s Hospice 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 Kitchen Assistant - Thurrock
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 St Luke’s Hospice 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 St Luke’s Hospice
✨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!
