At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and serve delicious meals in a vibrant community coffee shop.
- Company: The Salvation Army, a supportive and inclusive organisation.
- Benefits: Make a positive impact while working with a friendly team.
- Other info: Opportunity to support and train volunteers in a dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Join us to create a warm atmosphere and connect with the local community.
- Qualifications: Experience in food preparation and strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 25000 £ per year.
The Salvation Army, Southport operates a busy community coffee shop that plays a major role in the weekly mission activities of the church. The Coffee Shop provides a place where people can come together, enjoy food and build relationships in a safe and supportive environment. We are seeking an enthusiastic Part-Time Cook to take the lead in preparing and serving high-quality food whilst contributing to the warm and inclusive atmosphere that is the heart of our work. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who is passionate about food, enjoys working with people and wants to be part of a vibrant team serving the local community.
Key Responsibilities:
- The post holder will plan, prepare and serve a range of nutritious and cost-effective meals and light refreshments to a consistently high standard.
- Develop menus that reflect customer preferences and cater for a range of nutritional, dietary and allergen requirements.
- Maintain high standards of kitchen cleanliness and hygiene, ensuring compliance with Environmental Health requirements and relevant regulations including Food Hygiene, COSHH and Health and Safety procedures.
- Work collaboratively with staff and volunteers to ensure the smooth operation of the coffee shop.
- Support and supervise volunteers working in the kitchen, providing guidance and training where appropriate in collaboration with The Community Engagement Manager.
The successful candidate(s) will have:
- Good knowledge and experience in preparing and serving food in a commercial kitchen environment.
- Strong organisation skills and the ability to manage stock effectively.
- Ability to influence and motivate others and develop positive working relationships with colleagues, volunteers, customers and external stakeholders.
- Be proficient in both spoken and written English.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
What we offer:
A rewarding opportunity to make a positive difference within the local community. To be part of a friendly and supportive team in a role that contributes directly to the mission and community engagement work of The Salvation Army. The successful candidate will be expected to work in a manner consistent with the mission, values and ethos of The Salvation Army and contribute positively to its community focussed mission.
Cook in Southampton employer: The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises community impact and personal growth. As an Empowerment & Employment Coach in Ipswich, you will benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, while working alongside passionate colleagues dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals facing employment barriers. Join us to be part of a mission-driven organisation that values your contributions and fosters a collaborative environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Cook in Southampton
✨Get Involved in Local Events
Check out foodie festivals, farmers' markets, and local fairs in your area. These are perfect opportunities to meet restaurant owners and managers face-to-face, and they often look for part-time help during busy seasons.
✨Join Hospitality Groups
Connect with local hospitality groups on social media platforms like Facebook or Instagram. These communities frequently post about part-time job openings that aren’t advertised elsewhere, plus it’s a great way to engage with the food scene in your area!
✨Show Up in Person
For part-time roles in the hospitality sector, don't underestimate the power of a walk-in. Grab your best smile and pop into local cafés or restaurants with your CV in hand. It shows initiative and can really make you stand out!
✨Apply Through Our Website!
Don’t forget to check out the openings at The Salvation Army and apply directly through our website! We love seeing friendly faces and you’ll be surprised how many part-time roles pop up that may not be listed on job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Cook in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality and food service industry, showcasing your customer service experience is key. Be sure to highlight relevant roles in your CV or cover letter where you’ve directly engaged with customers—this could be from previous waitressing, barista jobs, or any roles that involved teamwork and communication. You want to convince us at The Salvation Army that you can keep it cool under pressure!
Certifications Matter:If you’ve got any hospitality-related certifications—like food safety or first aid—definitely mention those! Including these credentials can set you apart from other applicants. It shows us that you're serious about the health and safety standards we maintain here at The Salvation Army.
Flexibility is Your Friend:Since this is a part-time role, we’re looking for someone who can work various shifts. In your application, it’s useful to outline your availability clearly. Make it easy for us to see when you can jump in and help out—this shows that you’re committed and ready to adapt!
Let Your Personality Shine:In hospitality, personality plays a vital role. Use your cover letter to share why you’re passionate about food service and what brings you joy in helping customers. A personal touch can make your application memorable and help us at The Salvation Army get a sense of who you are beyond your experience!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Salvation Army
✨Show Off Your People Skills
In hospitality, your ability to work with customers and team members is crucial. Be prepared to share stories that highlight your experience in handling customer service situations, especially any tricky ones. We want to hear how you turned a potentially negative experience into a positive one!
✨Know the Menu Inside Out
You might get quizzed on the menu items or asked about your favourite dishes. Brush up on any special offerings at The Salvation Army and demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for their food. This shows you’re not just looking for any job, but you’re genuinely excited about working with their team.
✨Flexibility is Key
As you're going for a part-time role, emphasise your availability and willingness to work various shifts. Mention any instances where you've gone above and beyond for scheduling or helped out during busy times. This flexibility can make you stand out from the crowd!
✨Role-Play Scenarios
Be ready for role-play scenarios during your interview! Employers love to see how you handle on-the-spot situations, like dealing with a dissatisfied customer or managing a specific request from a patron. Practising these scenarios with friends can help boost your confidence.
