At a Glance
- Tasks: Serve delicious meals and provide top-notch catering support to staff and visitors.
- Company: Join the vibrant team at Oxford Lifelong Learning, a hub of innovation and community.
- Benefits: Flexible shifts, competitive pay, and a chance to gain valuable experience.
- Other info: Opportunities for growth and a fun summer experience await you!
- Why this job: Perfect for those who love customer service and want to work in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Good communication skills and a passion for delivering excellent service.
The predicted salary is between 12 - 15 £ per hour.
We are seeking Summer Casual Waiting Staff to support our busy catering operation from mid‑April to September 2026. There are a variety of shifts available Monday to Sunday, and we welcome applications from candidates who can commit to a minimum of 8 hours per week on any of those days. Average weekly hours may vary between 8 and 36 hours, depending on operational needs.
The role involves providing general catering support to all users of the Department, including staff, visitors, and residents. Duties include:
- Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner
- Setting up tables in the restaurant to the required standard
- Ensuring all necessary items are present and neatly arranged
- Providing tea and coffee service
- Delivering refreshments to common rooms, meeting rooms, and offices as requested
Candidates should have good communication skills and an interest in working in a customer‑facing environment. A flexible approach to working hours and a commitment to delivering excellent service are essential.
Applications for this position are to be made via our casual worker management system, ePloy. If you feel that you meet the criteria stated above and would be interested in applying for the position, please select the blue ‘Apply’ button at the bottom of this page or in the top right‑hand corner. A dialog box should appear, asking you to register for an account on the system, so that you can complete the application forms. If you have already used our system before, for example when registering with the TSS or Right to Work Hub, you will not need to register for an account. When the dialog box appears, please select the ‘Log In’ tab instead and use your existing credentials.
The closing date for applications is Friday 17 April 2026. If you have any questions regarding the application process, please direct these to tutors@conted.ox.ac.uk. Queries regarding the role or person specification should be directed to mark.bedford@conted.ox.ac.uk.
Oxford Lifelong Learning provides opportunities for people from a wide variety of backgrounds to benefit from the University’s rich and unique resources. We are ambitious and forward‑thinking, with a strong sense of identity and community. You can find out more about the department by visiting our website.
Summer Casual Waiting Staff (multiple positions) in Oxford employer: University of Oxford Department for Continuing Education
Join our vibrant team at Oxford Lifelong Learning, where we pride ourselves on fostering a supportive and inclusive work culture. As a Summer Casual Waiting Staff member, you'll enjoy flexible shifts, opportunities for personal growth, and the chance to engage with a diverse community while providing exceptional service. With a commitment to employee development and a dynamic environment, this role offers a meaningful way to contribute to our catering operations during the summer months.
Contact Details:
University of Oxford Department for Continuing Education Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Summer Casual Waiting Staff (multiple positions) in Oxford
✨Get in Early: Embrace the Seasonal Rush
In hospitality, seasonal hiring can be a bit of a frenzy, so make sure you’re applying early. Keep an eye on when local businesses like cafés and restaurants ramp up for holiday seasons or summer rushes. We can help you stay ahead by tracking application windows—don’t miss out!
✨Join Local Hospitality Groups
Tap into local hospitality communities online or through social media. Groups on Facebook or platforms like MeetUp can be goldmines for seasonal job opportunities. Engage with these communities—join discussions, share your eagerness, and you could snag a gig before it’s even advertised!
✨Show Your Face: Walk-Ins Matter
In hospitality, nothing beats a good ol' walk-in. Visit local establishments and introduce yourself. Bring along a flashy CV and maybe even drop a line about why you’re keen to work there. Sometimes just chatting with the manager can score you an interview on the spot!
✨Use Seasonal Hiring Platforms
Look for platforms that specialise in seasonal positions in the hospitality sector. Websites dedicated to summer jobs or Festival employment can offer unique roles that align with your interests. Don't forget to apply through our website too—companies like University of Oxford Department for Continuing Education are constantly looking for enthusiastic seasonal workers like you!
We think you need these skills to ace Summer Casual Waiting Staff (multiple positions) in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Service Skills:In the hospitality and food service game, your customer service skills are your bread and butter. Make sure your CV highlights any relevant experience you have in restaurants, cafés, or similar environments, emphasizing your ability to handle busy situations and provide excellent service.
Seasonal Availability is Key:Since this is a seasonal role, we're looking for candidates who are flexible with their availability. In your cover letter, mention specific times you’re available during the season and any previous seasonal positions you’ve held. This helps us see you as a perfect fit for this temporary gig!
Culinary Knowledge Can Set You Apart:If you have any culinary certifications or training, be sure to feature them prominently in your application. Knowing your way around a kitchen or having food safety certifications could give you an edge over other candidates when applying for a role at University of Oxford Department for Continuing Education.
Make It Personal:When applying through our website, use your cover letter to share why you’re passionate about working with University of Oxford Department for Continuing Education. Draw on any personal experiences you have in the hospitality scene and how they inspired you to apply for this seasonal role. We love a personal touch!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Oxford Department for Continuing Education
✨Know Your Menu Inside Out
With a seasonal role in hospitality-food-service, it’s super important to familiarise yourself with the menu. Be ready to chat about your favourite dishes, special ingredients, and any dietary considerations people might have. This shows you're passionate and prepared to provide excellent service right from the start!
✨Brush Up on Your Customer Service Skills
In hospitality, customer service can make or break the experience. Think of scenarios where you've gone the extra mile for a guest, or how you've handled challenges with a smile. Prepare a few stories that highlight your ability to connect with customers, solve problems, and create a welcoming atmosphere.
✨Flexibility is Key
Seasonal roles often require us to be flexible with our hours and responsibilities. During the interview, be prepared to discuss your availability and willingness to adapt. Highlighting your ability to jump into different roles, whether it’s serving or kitchen support, can really set you apart.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Hospitality thrives on teamwork, especially in busy seasons. Prepare to share experiences where you collaborated with colleagues to create a seamless experience for guests. If you've got any examples where you helped to lift team morale during busy shifts, mention them! It’s all about showing that you can contribute positively to the work environment.
