Hospital Catering Assistant – Part-Time with Weekend Premium

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust; Blackburn; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 21,000; Part time

Job summary

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust is seeking a Catering Assistant to support patient meal service and run the catering area in the hospital. This part-time role involves evening shifts, dishwashing, food prep, and stock control, with responsibilities across multiple service areas.

The post requires training, teamwork, and adherence to hygiene standards, with opportunities for development through Foundation Food Hygiene and NVQ Level 2 qualifications. Flexibility and reliability are essential.

Qualifications

• Must be prepared to undertake any training as appropriate.
• Ability to use own initiative and work without close supervision and also to work as part of a team.
• Possess or willing to complete Foundation Food Hygiene Qualification or equivalent qualification.
• Possess or be willing to complete NVQ Level 2 Hospitality/Customer Care or equivalent qualification.
• Experience of cleaning in a food environment or similar environment.
• Previous experience of working in a hospital or hospitality environment.
• Experience of using industrial catering equipment.

Responsibilities

• Assisting with Patient meal service in the evening service between 16:15–19:45 daily.
• Cleaning of premises and equipment to standard schedules and hygiene policies.
• Operating and cleaning automatic industrial dishwashers.
• Preparation and cooking of simple food items: salads, sandwiches, breakfasts, buffets for functions.
• Issuing food items to wards with correct storage and stock rotation.
• Fill, clean and maintain ward beverage trolleys and vending machines.
• Handle cash and secure takings.
• Complete documentation as directed.
• Safer handling of heavy equipment and food items as needed.
• Prepare cutlery and other items for patient meal service.

Skills

Initiative

Teamwork

Food hygiene

Confidentiality

Education

Foundation Food Hygiene qualification or equivalent

NVQ Level 2 Hospitality/Customer Care or equivalent

Tools

Industrial catering equipment

Job description

East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust is seeking a Catering Assistant to support patient meal service and run the catering area in the hospital. This part-time role involves evening shifts, dishwashing, food prep, and stock control, with responsibilities across multiple service areas.

The post requires training, teamwork, and adherence to hygiene standards, with opportunities for development through Foundation Food Hygiene and NVQ Level 2 qualifications. Flexibility and reliability are essential.