Kitchen Assistant

Compass Group PLC; Exeter; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Job summary

Compass Group PLC is seeking a motivated Kitchen Assistant to be the heart of Defence operations in Exeter on a full-time basis (35 hours per week). Join a team that values people, progress, and pride in delivering excellent customer service at Defence sites nationwide.

You will prepare food, maintain kitchen cleanliness, operate equipment safely, assist with deliveries, and uphold Food Hygiene and Health & Safety standards. A strong team player with reliable timekeeping is essential.

Qualifications

• Ability to work under pressure and manage priorities.
• Demonstrates an excellent level of timekeeping and reliability.
• Be an excellent team player with a committed, organised approach.
• Ability to work flexibly across shifts and adapt to duties as required.
• Desire to succeed in the role and contribute to Defence services.
• Commitment to maintaining food handling and hygiene standards.

Responsibilities

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights clients and customers.
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas.
• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment.
• Assisting with loading or unloading deliveries and supply vehicles.
• Representing Defence and maintaining a positive brand image.
• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards and Health & Safety regulations.
• Demonstrating ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate at all levels.
• Being an excellent team player with an organised approach.

Skills

Food safety

Teamwork

Time management

Flexibility

Job description

We're looking for a motivated and passionate Kitchen Assistant who will be the heart of our operation for Defence on a full time basis, contracted to 35 hours per week. You'll join a team that takes a real pride in what they do, in their food, in their brand but most of all pride in their people. You'll get given every opportunity to progress within a company that invests in its people, celebrates individuality, and rewards and recognises employees who go beyond the plate.

Could you bring your spark to Defence? Here's what you need to know before applying:

Your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing delicious, high-quality food that delights our clients and customers
• Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness of the kitchen and surrounding areas
• Ensuring the correct use of all machinery and equipment
• Assisting with the loading or unloading of deliveries and supply vehicles
• Representing Defence and maintaining a positive brand image
• Complying with Food Handling & Hygiene standards
• Complying with Health & Safety regulations
• Demonstrate an ability to manage pressure, prioritise tasks and communicate effectively at all levels
• Be an excellent team player
• Have a committed and organised approach
• Have a desire to succeed in your role
• Possess the ability to work under pressure
• Be flexible to work shifts
• Demonstrate Exceptional timekeeping and reliability

Part of Compass Group UK&I, ESS is the Defence, Government, and Energy services sector of Compass Group UK & Ireland. We support 250+ UK military establishments, high profile police, secure environments and government sites, along with a range of onshore and offshore facilities including platforms, drilling rigs, floatels and offices for the energy sector. We know that a friendly face makes all the difference, so we look for people who are passionate about delivering excellent customer service, at all levels, to join our teams.

Job Reference: com/0809/87018001/52810016/R/BU #Defence

Compass Group UK&I is committed to fostering an environment where every individual can truly be themselves at work and has equal opportunities to advance in their careers. We strive to build a culture that respects and celebrates the unique talents, beliefs, backgrounds, and abilities of all our team members. We want our colleagues to feel valued, empowered to reach their full potential, and to thrive - because diversity is our strength!

• Job Reference com/0809/87018001/52810016/R/BU
• Contract Type Full Time
• Closing Date 8 October, 2026
• Job Category Customer service / Frontline
• Business Unit Defence