At a Glance
- Tasks: Support customer queries and streamline office operations in a dynamic tech environment.
- Company: Join Star Labs, a hands-on UK laptop manufacturer focused on Linux.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible hours, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Work in a casual office with a resident dog and beautiful countryside walks nearby.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by improving processes and supporting customers in a growing company.
- Qualifications: Organisational skills, customer-facing experience, and a proactive attitude are essential.
Star Labs is a UK-based laptop manufacturer focused on Linux. We design, build and support our own hardware, and much of what we do is unusually hands-on, from firmware and platform work through to fulfilment, repairs, support and day-to-day operations. We care about the details: good products, honest support, and operations that actually work. As we grow, that means putting more structure around the day-to-day running of the business so customers are looked after properly and the wider team can stay focused on the work only they can do. This role exists because we need a dependable, organised person to help hold that together.
The Role
We are looking for someone practical, calm and highly organised to support both our customer helpdesk and the general running of the office. A large part of the role is owning routine operational work: handling customer queries, chasing couriers, following up on returns and refunds, and keeping records and administration in good order. You will be responsible for making sure this work is handled properly from start to finish and that nothing gets lost or left sitting. Alongside the day-to-day work, we're also looking for someone who enjoys making things better. As Star Labs grows, we want someone who naturally spots inefficiencies, enjoys organising processes and takes pride in improving the way things are done. Whether that's helping streamline our repair workflow, improving internal documentation or suggesting better ways of working, we welcome people who like taking ownership and making a positive difference. This is not a heavily scripted call-centre role, and it is not a purely internal admin role. It sits between customer support, coordination and operations, and would suit someone who enjoys variety, being useful and bringing order to busy workflows.
Key Responsibilities
- Handle customer support queries including order updates, refunds, delivery issues, returns, repairs, and courier or customs enquiries
- Follow up with couriers such as DHL and FedEx to resolve shipping and customs issues
- Help manage the customer support queue and ensure straightforward tickets are handled promptly and clearly
- Escalate technical, unusual or sensitive cases to the appropriate person
- Keep customer records, tracking information and internal notes accurate and up to date
- Support returns, repairs and refund administration
- Help with day-to-day office administration and general organisation
- Keep on top of outstanding actions and operational follow-up
- Identify opportunities to improve internal processes and help implement better ways of working
- Support other areas of the business where needed as the company grows
What We’re Looking For
- Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail
- Clear, professional written and verbal communication
- Comfortable dealing with customers, couriers and external contacts
- Good judgement about what can be handled independently and what should be escalated
- Calm under pressure and able to manage multiple priorities without losing attention to detail
- Comfortable working in a small company where priorities can change and everyone helps out
- Someone who enjoys solving problems and improving processes rather than simply following them
- Curious, proactive and keen to learn new skills
- Happy taking ownership of tasks and seeing them through to completion
Useful Experience
- At least two years' experience in an office-based, customer-facing role
- Technology industry experience would be beneficial but is not essential
- Comfortable using Microsoft Office and customer management systems such as Shopify or CRM platforms
- Customer support or helpdesk experience
- Office administration or operations coordination
- Experience dealing with shipping, logistics, returns or courier issues
- Experience working in a small business
- Familiarity with e-commerce, order processing or customer support platforms
Working Style
This role would suit someone who is practical, reliable and enjoys getting things done. We're looking for someone who takes pride in being organised, likes improving the way things work, and wants to grow alongside the business. In a small company there are plenty of opportunities to get involved in other areas, whether that's improving documentation, supporting marketing, analysing customer feedback or helping develop better internal processes.
Location
Based in or able to travel to our office in Surrey - driving is necessary as public transport is limited.
Salary
£28,000–£40,000, depending on experience and the level of responsibility the successful candidate can take on.
Working Hours
Ideally we're looking for someone to work full-time and be office-based throughout the working week, as much of the role is collaborative and operational. That said, we're happy to be flexible for the right person. Slightly adjusted hours, for example to accommodate school runs or similar commitments, can certainly be considered. We care far more about reliability, organisation and consistency than rigid corporate hours.
Start date: As soon as possible.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- Annual performance-related bonus
- 23 days holiday, plus bank holidays
- Contributory pension scheme
- Company laptop
- Salary sacrifice scheme
- Casual dress
- Countryside office location with footpaths nearby for lunchtime walks
- Office includes a resident dog, so applicants should be comfortable around dogs
- Professional development opportunities, including training, workshops and access to relevant courses
What’s Next?
We will review your application and whilst we would love to get back to every applicant, it is not always possible. If you haven’t heard from us within 3/4 weeks, please note that your application has not been successful on this occasion. We are an equal opportunities employer and are committed to creating an inclusive working environment. Please note applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK for the duration of the role in accordance with UK immigration legislation. We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position.
Operations & Customer Support Coordinator in Surrey employer: Star Labs Systems
Star Labs is an exceptional employer that values detail-oriented work and fosters a collaborative environment in its Surrey office. With a focus on employee growth, we offer professional development opportunities, a competitive salary, and a flexible working culture that prioritises reliability and organisation. Our unique countryside location, complete with a resident dog, enhances the workplace experience, making it a rewarding place for those who enjoy variety and taking ownership of their tasks.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Operations & Customer Support Coordinator in Surrey
✨Get to Know the Company Culture
Before jumping into applications, it’s super helpful to understand the vibe at Star Labs Systems. Check out their social media, read reviews on sites like Glassdoor, and see how they engage with customers. It'll give you clues on their values and help tailor your conversation during interviews.
✨Join Customer Support Communities
Dive into online communities like those on Reddit or LinkedIn where customer support pros hang out. Participating in discussions or asking questions can make you more visible to potential recruiters and help you learn about job openings at companies like Star Labs Systems before they even post them.
✨Attend Job Fairs or Networking Events
Look out for local job fairs or events specifically for customer support roles. This is your chance to meet hiring managers face-to-face, and you might even get the opportunity to interview on the spot!
✨Show Off Your Skills with Customer Interactions
In the customer support world, showcasing your communication skills is key. Consider creating a short video introducing yourself or even doing a mock call to showcase your abilities. It's a memorable way to stand out, especially if you can share this during your interview process!
We think you need these skills to ace Operations & Customer Support Coordinator in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Communication Skills:In customer support, clear communication is key. Make sure your CV highlights any experience you've had in customer-facing roles and your ability to resolve issues. Don't shy away from including specific examples of how you've gone above and beyond to help customers – this really shows your potential in the role.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Star Labs Systems:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Tell us why you want to work at Star Labs Systems specifically. Mention any unique aspects of our company that resonate with you and how your skills can enhance our customer support. This personal touch will set your application apart from the rest!
Highlight Any Relevant Tools or Tech Skills:If you've used customer support software like Zendesk or Freshdesk or have experience with CRM systems, make sure to mention these in your application. Being familiar with industry-standard tools can be a big plus for us when we’re reviewing applications, as it shows you can hit the ground running!
Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Skills:Customer support roles often require a knack for problem-solving. In your application, share examples of past experiences where you've tackled tough situations or resolved conflicts effectively. This will give us a good sense of how you handle challenges—an essential skill for success at Star Labs Systems!
How to prepare for a job interview at Star Labs Systems
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In customer support, it's all about communicating effectively. Prepare to share instances from your past experiences where you handled difficult customers or resolved conflicts. We want to hear how you empathised and found the best solutions, so think of specific examples to back up your stories!
✨Know the Tools of the Trade
Familiarise yourself with common customer support tools like Zendesk or Freshdesk, and make sure to review how you’ve used any similar systems in the past. During the interview, being able to discuss your hands-on experience with software or ticketing systems can really set you apart from the competition, so don’t skip this prep!
✨Show Genuine Enthusiasm
As this is a full-time role, employers want someone who isn’t just looking for any job, but wants to grow within customer support. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for helping customers and your desire to develop your skills. Show them why you're passionate about this field!
✨Practice Common Scenarios
Be prepared for role-playing scenarios where you might have to reassess a solution with a frustrated customer or explain a complex process in simple terms. Practising these common scenarios can help us feel more confident and demonstrate our practical skills effectively during the interview.