At a Glance
- 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.
- Other info: Flexible part-time hours available, with shifts across weekends and bank holidays.
- 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.
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:
33 days paid holiday pro-rata (inclusive of Bank Holidays)
Branded uniform provided (as required)
Relevant internal and external training provided
Free entry to our zoos for staff and immediate family
Discounts in our Catering and Retail outlets (as applicable)
Free staff parking
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#J-18808-Ljbffr
Seasonal Food and Beverage Assistant in Paignton employer: Wild Planet Trust
Wild Planet Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture where staff are integral to creating memorable experiences for our guests at Paignton Zoo. With a commitment to employee growth through training and development, alongside generous benefits such as 33 days of paid holiday and free zoo entry for staff and their families, we foster a supportive environment that values teamwork and conservation efforts. Join us in making a difference while enjoying the unique atmosphere of one of the South West's top attractions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Seasonal Food and Beverage Assistant in Paignton
✨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
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✨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
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We think you need these skills to ace Seasonal Food and Beverage Assistant in Paignton
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 Wild Planet Trust.
Make It Personal:When applying through our website, use your cover letter to share why you’re passionate about working with Wild Planet Trust. 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 Wild Planet Trust
✨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.
