Catering Assistant

ABOUT OLDHAM COLLEGE

Oldham College is one of the largest further education providers in Greater Manchester, supporting thousands of students each year to develop the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need for their future.

We work closely with local employers, universities, and community partners to deliver education and training that meets the needs of our region. Our staff play a vital role in creating a supportive, inclusive environment where students and colleagues can thrive.

Every role at the College contributes to helping people achieve their potential.

ABOUT THE ROLE

We are looking for enthusiastic and customer-focused Catering Assistants to join the Catering team at Oldham College. You will support the delivery of a high-quality catering service for students, staff, and visitors, helping to create a welcoming and professional environment across the College.

The role involves preparing and serving food and drinks, operating tills, maintaining excellent hygiene standards, and providing outstanding customer service. You will work as part of a busy and supportive team, contributing to the smooth day-to-day running of catering operations while ensuring compliance with food safety and health & safety standards.

We are recruiting for multiple positions with varying hours and contract types:

• Permanent 15 hours per week, term time only (36 weeks per year)
• Permanent 12 hours per week, term time only (36 weeks per year)
• Fixed term contract 12 months– 35 hours per week, term time only (38 weeks per year)

Interviews are planned to be held after 22nd June 2026

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

In this role you will:

• Prepare and serve food and beverages, including coffee and barista-style drinks.
• Deliver excellent customer service to students, staff, and visitors.
• Operate tills and process cash and card payments accurately.
• Maintain high standards of food hygiene, cleanliness, and health & safety across all catering areas.
• Support the catering team with events, hospitality services, and the smooth day-to-day running of the service.
• Carry out duties in line with College policies and procedures, including safeguarding and equality commitments

SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
• Good organisation skills with the ability to prioritise tasks in a busy environment.
• Positive, flexible, and proactive approach to work.
• Understanding of food hygiene and health & safety requirements, or willingness to learn quickly.

WHY JOIN US

We offer a supportive working environment with opportunities to develop and progress. Benefits include:

• Pension contributions of 15%
• Free counselling and wellbeing support
• Retail discounts through our benefits platform
• Enhanced family-friendly policies
• Paid special leave
• Training and development opportunities
• Free breakfast Fridays
• On-site facilities including canteens and a day nursery
• Free parking and electric car scheme
• Cycle to work scheme

INCLUSION AND FLEXIBILITY

We are committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community.

We are a Disability Confident employer and guarantee an interview to disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria.

We support the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving personnel, veterans, and military families.

Flexible working options may be available depending on the role.

SAFEGUARDING

The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults.

This role is subject to pre-employment checks, which may include an enhanced DBS check, DfE barred list check, online searches, and references.

It is a criminal offence under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 to apply for regulated activity roles if barred from working with children or vulnerable adults.

USE OF AI IN APPLICATIONS

We recognise that candidates may choose to use AI tools to support their application. If you do use AI, please ensure the information you submit accurately reflects your own skills, experience, and achievements. You may be asked to discuss your application during the recruitment process.

HOW TO APPLY

Please review the job description and person specification and submit your application by the closing date.

Join us and be part of a College where together, we invest in your future.