Catering Assistant - ESS Woodbourne

Compass Group New Zealand; Blenheim; On-site; NZD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

NZQA qualifications

Career development opportunities

Star Awards / Service Awards

Discounts on health insurance

Gym membership discounts

Free uniforms

On-site parking

Inclusive team environment

Job summary

Compass Group New Zealand is hiring a Front of House Catering Assistant to support the Woodbourne Airmen Mess in Blenheim. You will assist with service, food presentation, and customer care while upholding food safety and hygiene standards.

The role is fixed-term from 1 September 2026 to 22 December 2026, offering 32 hours per week with shifts across mornings, evenings, weekdays and weekends. Training and development opportunities are available.

Qualifications

• A team player with a positive attitude and strong communication skills.
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently when required.
• Previous catering, hospitality, or customer service experience is preferred.
• Willingness to obtain NZQA Food Handling Certificate (Units 167 & 168).
• Understands safety, hygiene, and quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist with food preparation, portioning, and plating for daily service.
• Deliver friendly and professional customer service in the dining area.
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in kitchen, dining, and public areas.
• Operate a cash register and follow Compass cash handling procedures.
• Follow food safety, hygiene, and health & safety protocols at all times.
• Support the wider team to ensure smooth daily operations.

Skills

Team player

Strong communication skills

Reliable

Punctual

Independent when required

Education

NZQA Food Handling Certificate (Units 167 & 168)

Job description

He Angitūtanga / The Opportunity

• Serve with Purpose: Support the New Zealand Defence Force by delivering high-quality meals in a structured, respectful environment.
• Career Growth & Recognition: Access NZQA training, apprenticeships, and be celebrated through our Star Awards and performance bonuses.
• Supportive Team Culture: Join a team that values respect, teamwork, and continuous improvement

We're looking for a reliable and enthusiastic Front of House Catering Assistant to join our team at the Woodbourne Airmen Mess.

This is a fixed-term position from 1 September 2026 to 22 December 2026, offering a guaranteed 32 hours per week. We are seeking someone who can start as soon as possible.

You’ll be part of a dedicated team delivering daily catering services to Defence personnel, helping ensure meals are prepared, presented, and served to the highest standards. Flexibility to work mornings or evenings, as well as weekdays and weekends, is essential.

Ko o Kawenga / Your Responsibilities

• Assist with food preparation, portioning, and plating for daily service
• Deliver friendly and professional customer service in the dining area
• Maintain cleanliness and hygiene in kitchen, dining, and public areas
• Operate a cash register and follow Compass cash handling procedures
• Follow food safety, hygiene, and health & safety protocols at all times
• Support the wider team to ensure smooth daily operations

He Kōrero Mōu / About You

• A team player with a positive attitude and strong communication skills
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work independently when required
• Previous catering, hospitality, or customer service experience is preferred
• Holds or is willing to obtain a NZQA Food Handling Certificate (Units 167 & 168)
• Understands the importance of safety, hygiene, and quality standards
• Flexible to work a variety of shifts across the week

Ngā Painga / Benefits & Perks

• Access to online learning, apprenticeships, and NZQA qualifications
• Career development opportunities within Compass Group New Zealand
• Recognition through Star Awards, Service Awards, and performance programmes
• Discounts on health insurance, gym memberships, optometry, and more
• Free uniforms and on-site parking
• A supportive and inclusive team environment

Mō Mātou / About Us

We are New Zealand's leading and largest provider of food and support services across multiple industries.

These industry sectors are managed by our sub-brands Eurest, Chartwells, Restaurant Associates, Medirest, and ESS.

We specialise in turning ordinary acts of service into extraordinary experiences for our clients. With talented teams across New Zealand, we transform experiences from being good to great.

Our people bring our brands to life and are at the heart of everything we do. Guided by our values of Respect, Growth, and Teamwork, we are committed to creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.

We are an equal opportunity employer and celebrate diversity, creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Successful candidates will be required to satisfactorily pass a Criminal Record Check.

Applicants for this position must have NZ residency, citizenship, or a valid NZ work visa.