Catering Assistant

John Lewis Partnership; Southampton; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK employee-owned retailer is seeking Catering Assistants for its Southampton location. The role entails providing excellent customer service and handling food preparation in a fast-paced environment. Applicants should have a passion for food and commitment to hygiene standards. Availability for flexible working is supported.

Benefits

Free food on working days

No split shifts or late evenings

Qualifications

• Ability to adapt to operational needs in a catering environment.
• High standards in food preparation and hygiene.

Responsibilities

• Ensure smooth catering service as part of a team.
• Provide friendly service to customers and partners.
• Follow health and safety procedures.

Skills

Flexibility

Passion for food

Teamwork

Customer service skills

Job description

About the role

Our Catering Assistants in our John Lewis shops work either in customer restaurants or behind-the-scenes in Partner (employee) dining rooms. You will provide excellent customer service, ensuring a positive catering experience. The role involves food preparation, presentation, and supporting tasks such as stock replenishment and storage of deliveries.

Benefits include free food on working days, with no split shifts or late evenings.

Key Responsibilities

• Work as a team to ensure smooth catering service.
• Provide friendly and welcoming interactions with customers and Partners, representing the John Lewis brand.
• Follow health and safety procedures and food safety regulations.
• Replenish stock and manage deliveries.
• Minimize food wastage through careful stock rotation.
• Resolve operational issues promptly using your initiative.
• Maintain high standards of personal hygiene.

Essential Skills and Experience

• Flexibility to work across the Catering team and adapt to operational needs.
• Passion for food and high standards in food prep and hygiene.

Desirable Skills and Experience

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

About The Partnership

We are the UK's largest employee-owned business, home to John Lewis and Waitrose. As Partners, we share ownership, responsibility, and rewards, working together to build a better future. We value diversity, kindness, respect, and personal growth.

Additional Information

Some roles may require pre-employment vetting, including DBS checks and financial probity checks. We encourage early applications as vacancies may close early. We support flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance, including flexible hours, job sharing, or shorter contracts. Discuss these options with the hiring manager during your interview.