Job Description

To support the daily operations of a busy cafe, ensuring high standards of food hygiene, customer service, and efficiency. A key part of this role involves working alongside, supporting, and mentoring individuals with learning difficulties and/or autism, promoting a positive and inclusive working environment.

Key Responsibilities:Cafe/Kitchen Duties:

Prepare, cook, and serve hot and cold food and beverages. Maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards in all kitchen and cafe areas, including dishwashing and sanitising. Operate cafe equipment (coffee machines, microwaves, tills and ovens). Follow food safety and health & safety regulations at all times. Restock supplies and assist with stock rotation and inventory checks. Handle customer orders and payments in a friendly, professional manner. Follow established procedures for the setup and close-down of the cafe daily. Collaborate with team members to ensure smooth operations and efficient service.

Mentoring & Support Responsibilities:

Work alongside individuals with learning difficulties and/or autism, modelling appropriate workplace behaviours. Provide practical support, guidance and encouragement in kitchen and cafe tasks. Adapt instructions and tasks to individual needs and learning styles. Promote independence and confidence by fostering skill development and positive social interactions. Maintain professional boundaries and follow safeguarding policies and procedures. Liaise with supervisors and support staff to provide feedback on individual progress and support needs.

Person Specification:

Essential:

Experience in a cafe, kitchen, or food service environment. Basic food hygiene knowledge or willingness to obtain certification. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Empathy, patience, and a genuine interest in supporting people with learning difficulties and/or autism. Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced setting. Team player with a positive, inclusive attitude. Basic math skill. Time management skill.

Desirable:

Experience working with or supporting individuals with additional needs. Understanding of autism and/or learning difficulties in a workplace setting. Food Hygiene Level 2 (or willingness to obtain). Previous mentoring or coaching experience.
We offer competitive pay rates, flexible scheduling options, and opportunities to help develop your career. If you are passionate about providing exceptional customer service in a cafe setting, we would love to hear from you. Apply now to join our team as a Cafe or Kitchen Assistant!

Summary

We are looking for a friendly and reliable Cafe/Kitchen Assistant to join our busy cafe. You should be fully flexible to work any shift during operational opening hours of Monday - Friday 9am - 8pm, Saturday 9am - 5pm and Sunday 10am - 5pm. In addition to preparing and serving food and drinks and maintaining high standards of hygiene and customer service, this role involves working alongside and mentoring individuals with learning difficulties and/or autism. The ideal candidate will have experience in food service, excellent communication skills, and a genuine interest in supporting others in a positive and inclusive work environment. Training will be provided, and a basic Access NI check is required.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: 7.55-12.21 per hour

Expected hours: No less than 16 per week

Benefits:

Company pension Discounted or free food Employee discount Free parking
Work Location: In person

Application deadline: 06/07/2025