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- Tasks: Join our team to serve food, maintain cleanliness, and enhance guest experiences at Paignton Zoo.
- Company: Wild Planet Trust is a leading conservation charity with two zoos and nature reserves in Devon.
- Benefits: Enjoy 33 days paid holiday, free zoo entry for family, discounts, and training opportunities.
- Why this job: Work in a vibrant environment, meet new people, and contribute to wildlife conservation efforts.
- Qualifications: No experience needed; we provide training, but a positive attitude and attention to detail are essential.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours available, with shifts across weekends and bank holidays.
Location Paignton Zoo, Totnes Road, Paignton, Devon, TQ4 7EU Salary National Minimum Wage Application Deadline Saturday, August 16, 2025 Job Summary
Wild Planet Trust is a registered education, scientific and conservation charity established in 1957 and based in Devon, UK. We own two zoos in southwest England, plus two local nature reserves and a National Nature Reserve. We support conservation in the United Kingdom and overseas using funds generated by the people who visit the zoos and the expertise and dedication of our staff.
Paignton Zoo first opened its doors as the Torbay Zoological Gardens in 1923. 100 years later, our site, and work, has grown considerably and we are now one of the South West’s largest conservation organisations and top visitor attractions. There are over 230 species of animal that call Paignton Zoo home. As well as being a zoo, we’re also an award winning botanical garden with over 4,000 species on record.
We have an exciting opportunity for Food and BeverageAssistants to join our Catering team for our 2025 season on a part time basis. Minimum hours to be worked range from 6to 12per week. The hours will be over a 7-day rota, including weekends and bank holidays. The salary for this position is national minimum wage.
What will this role involve?
There are a range of roles available where duties can include food production, serving food and drink, using the till, washing up, cleaning and clearing kitchen areas, helping to unload deliveries, cleaning tables, sweeping and mopping the floor and the daily running of the catering outlets around the site to ensure a smooth and efficient service. You’ll play a key role in the overall experience of our guests. You’ll be the face of the Wild Planet Trust for every guest that walks through our door and meets you as they explore the zoo. If you are a friendly, outgoing person who enjoys meeting people and working in an amazing environment this could be the perfect opportunity for you.
What skills and experience are required?
Experience of working in a similar environment and a Level 2 Food Hygiene preferred but not essential as full training will be given. We are looking for team members who take pride in maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness and safety, have an understanding of Food Hygiene Regulations, Health and Safety Regulations and Licensing laws and an understanding of identifying allergens present in products and how to deal with customer enquiries related to allergens. Our ideal team members will have a positive attitude, strong work-ethic and are passionate about delivering the highest standard of visitor experience. Candidates should have a great eye for detail and an understanding of what amazing visitor experience looks like.
Benefits of joining our team include:
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33 days paid holiday pro-rata (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
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Branded uniform provided (as required)
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Relevant internal and external training provided
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Free entry to our zoos for staff and immediate family
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Discounts in our Catering and Retail outlets (as applicable)
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Free staff parking
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Employee Assistance Programme
Please note, we will be reviewing applications and conducting interviews throughout the advertising period for these roles. The roles may therefore be filled prior to the closing date.
We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Job Profile Job Profile document
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Seasonal Food and Beverage Assistant employer: Wild Planet Trust
Contact Detail:
Wild Planet Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Seasonal Food and Beverage Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Wild Planet Trust and Paignton Zoo. Understanding their mission and values will help you connect with the team during your interactions, showing that you're genuinely interested in being part of their conservation efforts.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight any previous experience in food and beverage roles when networking. If you know someone who works at the zoo or in a similar environment, reach out to them for insights and advice on what they look for in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to demonstrate your customer service skills during any informal chats or interviews. Think of examples where you've gone above and beyond for a customer, as this role is all about enhancing the visitor experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your understanding of food hygiene and safety regulations. Even if you don't have formal training, showing that you're aware of these standards and are willing to learn can set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Food and Beverage Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the responsibilities and skills required for the Seasonal Food and Beverage Assistant position. Tailor your application to highlight relevant experiences that match these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: If you have previous experience in food service or customer-facing roles, make sure to emphasise this in your CV and cover letter. Mention specific tasks you've performed that relate to the duties listed in the job description.
Show Your Personality: Since this role involves interacting with guests, let your friendly and outgoing nature shine through in your application. Use a warm tone in your cover letter to convey your enthusiasm for working in a vibrant environment like Paignton Zoo.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors. A well-presented application reflects your attention to detail, which is crucial for maintaining high standards in a food and beverage setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wild Planet Trust
✨Show Your Passion for Customer Service
As a Food and Beverage Assistant, you'll be the face of the Wild Planet Trust. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for providing excellent customer service during the interview. Share examples of how you've gone above and beyond for customers in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Team Spirit
This role requires working closely with others in a fast-paced environment. Highlight your ability to work as part of a team by discussing past experiences where collaboration led to success. Employers love candidates who can contribute positively to team dynamics.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Food Hygiene Standards
Even if you don't have a Level 2 Food Hygiene certificate, showing that you understand the importance of food safety and hygiene will impress your interviewers. Brush up on basic food hygiene regulations and be ready to discuss them.
✨Prepare for Common Interview Questions
Think about potential questions related to handling customer complaints, managing busy periods, or dealing with allergens. Practising your responses will help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
