Job Description

Job Summary

We're looking for a compassionate and adaptable Part-Time Receptionist / Administrator to join our busy foodbank at the Community One Stop Shop in Edinburgh. This is not your average reception role -- you'll be welcoming and supporting vulnerable clients, managing admin tasks, and helping sort and lift donations. If you're organised, non-judgmental with a sense of humour and are willing to work hard to support the most vulnerable in our community, we'd love to hear from you.

About Us

The Community One Stop Shop (COSS) is a long-established charity based in Edinburgh, supporting individuals and families experiencing financial hardship. We provide food, advice, and practical help in a safe and welcoming environment. We believe in treating our clients -- no judgment, just support.

About the Role

This is not your average receptionist job. We're looking for someone who's as comfortable welcoming people in crisis as they are managing emails and spreadsheets. As our Part-Time Receptionist / Administrator, you'll be the friendly face and first point of contact for the community. You'll also support the smooth running of our foodbank -- which can mean helping to sort donations, lift stock, and assist clients during busy periods. It's a varied, rewarding role that suits someone who's organised, compassionate, and able to stay calm in a challenging environment.

Key Responsibilities

Welcome all visitors in a friendly, professional, and non-judgemental way.

Handle phone, email, and face-to-face enquiries.

Maintain accurate records and databases using Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, Word).

Book appointments and coordinate with staff, volunteers, and partner organisations.

Support clients by providing information and signposting to relevant services.

Assist with sorting, lifting, and managing food donations and stock.

Keep reception and storage areas tidy, safe, and organised.

Support other administrative or community tasks as needed.

What We're Looking For

Essential skills and experience:

Previous experience in reception, administration, or customer service.

Confident using Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word.

Strong communication and people skills.

Ability to work with empathy and professionalism in a sensitive environment.

Flexible and able to adapt to changing priorities.

Physically able to lift and move stock safely.

Committed to equality, inclusion, and non-judgemental practice.

Desirable:

Experience working or volunteering with vulnerable people or in a community setting.

Knowledge of local support services or charities.

What We Offer

12.85 per hour.

16 hours per week, between the hours of 9am-3pm with some flexibility in scheduling.

A genuinely rewarding role where you can make a real difference.

Training and development opportunities.

How to Apply

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter explaining why you'd like to join the Community One Stop Shop and how your skills fit this role to:

Carol@coss-broomhouse.org.uk

Application deadline: Thursday 20th November 2025.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: 12.65 per hour

Expected hours: 16 per week

Work Location: In person