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- Tasks: Join our team as a General Assistant, working in various hotel roles.
- Company: Merkister Hotel, a friendly and supportive workplace in the beautiful Orkney Islands.
- Benefits: Above living wage pay, end of season bonus, and live-in accommodation provided.
- Why this job: Experience hands-on hospitality work while enjoying a stunning rural setting.
- Qualifications: Hospitality experience preferred but not essential; positive attitude and teamwork skills required.
- Other info: Perfect for couples or friends looking to live and work together.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 £ per year.
Merkister Hotel is recruiting General Assistants to join the team for the 2026 season at its hotel in the Orkney Islands. This role suits reliable individuals, couples, or friends who enjoy hands-on hospitality work and are happy to live and work on site in a small, well-run hotel.
The role
- You will work across different areas of the hotel depending on daily requirements.
- Duties will include kitchen porter shifts, basic food preparation, and supporting breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.
- You will carry out front of house duties, including greeting guests, taking food and drink orders, serving, and clearing tables.
- You will assist with housekeeping, including cleaning guest bedrooms and public areas.
- You will help maintain cleanliness, organisation, and standards throughout the hotel.
- You will work as part of a small team and support colleagues as needed.
Working pattern
- This is a full-time, seasonal role running from April to mid-October.
- The role involves split shifts across breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.
- Working patterns are typically five days on and two days off, averaging around 50 hours per week.
- Live-in accommodation is provided in a furnished two-bedroom private house, suitable for couples or friends.
What we are looking for
- Previous hospitality experience is preferred but not essential.
- Good communication and customer service skills.
- The ability to work independently and as part of a small team.
- Reliability, professionalism, and a positive attitude.
- Couples or friends who are happy to live and work together are encouraged to apply.
What is on offer
- Pay above the Living Wage.
- A substantial end of season bonus.
- Live-in accommodation provided in a private furnished house.
- Full-time seasonal employment in a friendly, supportive hotel environment.
- The opportunity to live and work in a rural Orkney setting.
How to apply
Apply through Highland Jobs. Your application goes directly to the employer. No agencies. No nonsense.
General Assistants Merkister Hotel employer: The Highland Times
Contact Detail:
The Highland Times Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land General Assistants Merkister Hotel
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the hotel vibe! Before you apply, check out their website and social media. This will help you understand their culture and what they value, making it easier to show how you fit in.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff on LinkedIn or other platforms. They can give you insider tips about the role and the team, which can really help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready for a hands-on interview! Since this is a hospitality role, expect practical assessments. Brush up on your customer service skills and be prepared to demonstrate your teamwork abilities.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the quickest way to get your application in front of the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Merkister Hotel.
We think you need these skills to ace General Assistants Merkister Hotel
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Personality: When writing your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see who you are beyond your experience. A friendly tone can make a big difference and show us that you're a great fit for our team.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the role at Merkister Hotel. Highlight any relevant experience in hospitality, even if it's just a little. We love seeing how your skills match what we're looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate straightforwardness, so avoid fluff and get straight to what makes you a great candidate for the General Assistant role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through Highland Jobs as mentioned in the job description. This ensures your application goes directly to us without any hassle. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Highland Times
✨Know the Role Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the General Assistant role at Merkister Hotel. Familiarise yourself with the duties like kitchen porter shifts, front of house tasks, and housekeeping. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Show Off Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with a small team, be ready to discuss your teamwork skills. Share examples from past experiences where you collaborated effectively with others. Highlighting your ability to support colleagues will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Bring Your Positive Attitude
A positive attitude can go a long way in hospitality. During the interview, let your enthusiasm shine through. Talk about how you handle challenges with a smile and how you enjoy creating a welcoming environment for guests. This will demonstrate that you’re a great fit for their friendly hotel atmosphere.
✨Prepare Questions About Life at the Hotel
Think of some thoughtful questions to ask about living and working at the hotel. Inquire about the team dynamics, the accommodation, or what a typical day looks like. This shows that you’re not just interested in the job but also in the experience of living in the Orkney Islands.
