Kitchen Assistant

Dobbies Garden Centres; Milton Keynes; On-site; GBP 20,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Dobbies Garden Centres is seeking a passionate Kitchen Assistant to enhance customer experience in their restaurants. The role involves food preparation, maintaining hygiene standards, and collaborating with the kitchen team. Ideal candidates will have experience in food service and a commitment to teamwork and customer satisfaction.

Benefits

Generous annual leave entitlement

50% off in Restaurants

25% off in the Garden Centre

10% off in food halls

Access to Wagestream for financial wellbeing support

Support from Retail Trust including counselling

Opportunities for development through Dobbies Academy

Qualifications

• Experience in food service is required.
• Knowledge of kitchen health, safety, and hygiene rules is essential.
• Ability to thrive in a busy, fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Preparing and presenting food in line with menu specifications.
• Supporting general kitchen duties proactively.
• Collaborating with the kitchen team to ensure timely meal preparation.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Food Preparation

Knowledge of Health and Safety

Education

Relevant Food Safety Qualifications

Job description

Our Kitchen Assistants play an essential role in delivering an exceptional customer experience across our Restaurants by providing tasty food, ensuring food hygiene, and maintaining high operational standards.

Responsibilities

1. Preparing and presenting food in line with menu specifications.
2. Supporting general kitchen duties proactively.
3. Collaborating with the kitchen team to ensure meals are prepared to a high standard and served on time.
4. Developing knowledge of dietary requirements, allergies, and health & safety regulations.

Who We Are Looking For

1. A passion for food and delivering the best experience for our customers.
2. A team player and confident communicator eager to learn new skills.
3. Ability to thrive in a busy, fast-paced environment.
4. Experience in food service.
5. Knowledge of kitchen health, safety, and hygiene rules.
6. Relevant food safety qualifications are preferred.
7. Ability to demonstrate our values: teamwork, continuous improvement, positivity, and commitment to our customers.

What We Offer

• Generous annual leave entitlement with flexible holiday scheduling.
• Uncapped discounts: 50% off in our Restaurants, 25% off in the Garden Centre, and 10% off in our food halls.
• Access to Wagestream for financial wellbeing support.
• Support from Retail Trust including confidential support, virtual GP, free counselling, and retail rewards.
• Opportunities for development through Dobbies Academy and eLearning platforms.
• A passionate, diverse, and committed team culture.

About Us

Founded in 1865 by James Dobbie, Dobbies is the only garden centre retailer with stores in every UK nation. We celebrate garden living year-round through our products, services, and community events. Many stores feature a restaurant or coffee shop, providing a welcoming environment for customers to relax and enjoy. We are committed to being a great place to work, encouraging our colleagues to be their best every day and to celebrate success together.