Catering Assistant

John Lewis Partnership; Leicester; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

The John Lewis Partnership is looking for Catering Assistants to deliver exceptional service in their restaurants and employee dining rooms. This role involves food preparation and customer interaction, requiring teamwork, flexibility, and a passion for food. Employees enjoy free meals and a collaborative, diverse work environment. Enjoy a varied schedule of up to 37.5 hours per week, with the opportunity for flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Free meals during working days

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Flexible and able to work as part of a team.
• High standards in food preparation and hygiene.
• Experience in a kitchen or catering environment is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Support catering tasks including stock replenishment.
• Ensure a positive customer experience and act as a brand ambassador.
• Maintain high personal hygiene standards.

Skills

Flexibility

Passion for food

Attention to detail

Customer service

Job description

Apply on JLP Jobs - the official careers website for John Lewis Partnership, John Lewis & Partners, and Waitrose & Partners.

About the role

Our Catering Assistants in our John Lewis shops work in either our customer restaurants or behind-the-scenes in our Partner (employee) dining rooms. You'll offer the great customer service we're known for. The role can be fast-paced, but by taking pride in your food preparation and presentation standards, you'll ensure the best catering experience. You will also support other catering tasks, including stock replenishment and storage of deliveries. Our Catering Partners enjoy free food in our dining rooms on their working days, and since they are based in our shops, there are no split shifts or late evening work.

Key Responsibilities

• Work as a team to ensure a smooth catering service.
• Provide positive customer and Partner interactions with a friendly and welcoming attitude, acting as an ambassador for the John Lewis brand at all times.
• Follow procedures and instructions in accordance with the 'Health and Safety at Work Act' and 'Food Safety Act'.
• Ensure stock is replenished and available for customers.
• Reduce food wastage by rotating stock carefully and diligently.
• Act promptly and use your initiative to resolve any operational issues.
• Maintain high standards of personal hygiene.

Essential skills/experience

• Ability to be flexible and work across the Catering team, using initiative to ensure smooth operations.
• Passion for food.
• Keen eye for detail, with high standards in food preparation, hygiene, and cleanliness.

Desirable skills/experience

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, physically demanding environment.
• Teamwork skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Experience working in a kitchen or catering environment.

Various hours up to 37.5 hours per week, including late nights and weekends on a rota basis.

The partnership

We’re the largest employee-owned business in the UK, home to our cherished brands John Lewis and Waitrose. As Partners, we share ownership and responsibility, contributing to our success and working together through good and challenging times. We embrace diversity, foster an environment where everyone can thrive, and are committed to kindness and respect. We aim to make the Partnership a place where everyone belongs, grows individually and collectively, and makes a difference. Join us and be part of something special.

Important points to note:

• Some roles require pre-employment vetting, including DBS checks if applicable. You will be informed and provided with details during recruitment. DBS checks are carried out by a registered third-party body, and financial probity checks may also be required.
• Apply early, as vacancies may close sooner if there are many applicants.
• We support flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance, including flexible hours, job sharing, or shorter contracts. Discuss this with the hiring manager during your interview.