Kitchen Assistant

Dobbies Garden Centres; Stockton-on-Tees; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 22,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading garden centre retailer is seeking Kitchen Assistants to join their restaurants. You will play a key role in delivering exceptional customer experiences by preparing food, ensuring hygiene standards, and collaborating with the kitchen team. Ideal candidates possess a passion for food and excellent communication skills.

Benefits

Generous annual leave entitlement

50% discount in restaurants

Access to Wagestream for financial wellbeing support

Support from Retail Trust

Development opportunities via Dobbies Academy

Qualifications

• Experience in food service is required.
• Ability to demonstrate teamwork and customer focus is essential.

Responsibilities

• Preparing and presenting food according to menu specifications.
• Supporting general kitchen duties and collaborating with the team.

Skills

Customer service experience

Knowledge of food hygiene

Communication

Education

Relevant food safety qualifications

Job description

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

Responsibilities

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

Who We Are Looking For

• Passionate about food and providing excellent customer experiences
• A team player and confident communicator eager to learn new skills
• Ability to thrive in a busy, fast-paced environment
• Experience in food service
• Knowledge of kitchen health, safety, and hygiene rules
• Relevant food safety qualifications are a plus
• Ability to demonstrate our values: being a team, continuous improvement, positivity, and customer focus

What We Offer

• Generous annual leave entitlement with flexible holiday planning
• Uncapped store discounts: 50% off in our restaurants, 25% off in the Garden Centre, 10% off in food halls
• Access to Wagestream for financial wellbeing support
• Support from Retail Trust, including confidential support, virtual GP, free counselling, and retail rewards
• Development opportunities via 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 across every UK nation. We celebrate garden living year-round, showcasing our own brand and partner products, and offering events and community experiences. Many stores feature a restaurant or coffee shop for relaxed dining. We are dedicated to being a great place to work, encouraging our colleagues to be their best every day and to share their successes.