Catering Assistant

Education Authority; Dundonald; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

The Education Authority seeks a Catering Assistant to support the daily operation of its Catering Unit. Responsibilities include food preparation, service, and maintaining hygiene standards while promoting quality meals to customers. The ideal candidate will possess strong communication and organizational skills, alongside a commitment to the ethos of the Education Authority.

Qualifications

• Willingness to undertake job-related training.
• Experience in customer service or catering roles is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Participate in daily operation of the Catering Unit under supervision.
• Prepare and serve food, maintain hygiene, and clean service areas.

Skills

Effective communication

Team skills

Organizational ability

Motivation for quality service

Job description

JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Catering Assistant
REPORTS TO: Senior/Unit Catering Supervisor
RESPONSIBLE TO: Catering Manager through appropriate Area Catering Manager
JOB PURPOSE
To actively participate in the daily operation of the Catering Unit under the direction of the Senior/Unit Catering Supervisor.
Team participation is essential to provide an efficient hygienic service, achieve customer satisfaction, and promote sales within the unit.
MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Basic preparation of food and beverages, including vegetables and snacks using appropriate equipment.
2. Simple cooking, including reconstitution of prepared food.
3. Organising and controlling food service points.
4. Transferring and serving meals and snacks, including transported meals.
5. Assisting with the promotion of meals to pupils, parents, and the principal.
6. Maintaining contact with the central kitchen regarding service delivery.
7. Preparing the dining area:
(a) Setting out tables, chairs, benches, and serving points.
(b) Setting tables and laying out cutlery, water jugs, etc.
8. Completing kitchen and dining room duties such as washing up, clearing equipment, and cleaning surfaces.
9. Cleaning the kitchen/servery, dining room, and equipment.
10. Recording temperatures for control purposes.
11. Securing premises as required.
12. Completing delegated duties related to service provision.
13. Ensuring compliance with Acts of Parliament, regulations, and codes of practice.
14. Performing duties within the usual working conditions of the role.
15. Completing necessary administration.
16. Carrying out all duties appropriate to the grade and within competence.
17. Promoting and adhering to the school's values and ethos.
Note: When part of the premises is used for both food consumption and educational purposes, non-catering staff are responsible for cleaning the room.
This job description is subject to review and may include other duties of a similar nature.
In accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998), the post-holder must promote good relations and equality of opportunity.
To view the terms and conditions, click here.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
NOTES TO JOB APPLICANTS
- Clearly demonstrate how you meet the criteria on your application form.
- Demonstrate meeting criteria by the closing date.
- Criteria will be assessed during shortlisting and interviews.
- Shortlisting is based on the application form; the panel may also consider desirable criteria.

SECTION 1 - ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Willingness to undertake job-related training.

Assessment: Application form.

SECTION 2 - ADDITIONAL ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

Effective communication and team skills, organizational ability, motivation for providing quality service, and alignment with EA’s ethos.

Assessment: Interview.

SECTION 3 - DESIRABLE CRITERIA

Experience in customer service or catering roles.

Assessment: Application form.

DISCLOSURE OF CRIMINAL BACKGROUND

Enhanced Disclosure required for roles involving regulated activity. The cost is borne by the applicant.

Further info at NI Direct or the Department of Justice.

APPLICANT GUIDANCE NOTES

Available here.

Benefits info here.

The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer