Job Title: Catering Assistant
Salary: £26,000 to £27,000
Contract Type: Permanent
Type of Employment: Full Time
Total Weekly Contractual Hours: 37.5
Location: University College Hospital, 235 Euston Road , London, Greater London, England NW1 2BU

The catering department is a vital part of a hospital's daily operations. It is responsible for providing safe, nutritious meals and beverages to patients, staff and visitors while maintaining the highest standards of food hygiene and customer service.

This position supports the catering service with professional and experienced staff to ensure food safety standards are maintained, meals are delivered accurately and on time, patient satisfaction is achieved, and service level agreements are met and delivered in accordance with Trust and Mitie requirements.

Main Duties
 Work in a safe, courteous and confidential manner whilst following Mitie and Trust policies and associated Standard Operating Procedures relating to the task being carried out.

• Be in your designated place of work from the agreed shift start time to the agreed shift end time and maintain catering services throughout your designated area.
• Follow planned work schedules and make flexible adjustments as required to meet operational demands.
• Serve meals and beverages to patients in accordance with dietary requirements and meal service schedules.
• Assist with the preparation of beverages, sandwiches, salads, snacks and other food items as required.
• Deliver meals, refreshments and catering supplies to wards and other hospital locations as directed.
• Maintain food service standards and ensure meals are presented and served in a professional manner.
• Clean, wash and safely store crockery, cutlery, trays, utensils and catering equipment.
• Operate dishwashing and pot-washing equipment safely and effectively.

• Clean catering areas, kitchens, food preparation areas, ward pantries and associated service areas.
• Participate in the safe and hygienic disposal of food waste, general waste and recyclable materials in accordance with local procedures.
• Report maintenance issues, equipment faults or mechanical defects to a supervisor or management team.
• Report sightings of pests or any food safety concerns immediately.
• Adhere strictly to all food safety, infection prevention, health and safety, COSHH and fire safety procedures.
• Ensure compliance with Health & Safety, ISO standards, Infection Prevention and Control requirements and COSHH regulations while undertaking duties.
• Maintain accurate records as required by company procedures, legislation and best practice.

• Participate in any training, meetings or development activities required to undertake the duties of the post.
• Maintain the highest standards of personal hygiene and appearance in line with Mitie's Uniform and Hygiene Policy.
• Adhere to Mitie's Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy and Bullying and Harassment Procedures.
• Demonstrate a clear and effective alignment with the operational objectives and commercial interests of Mitie.
• Undertake any other duties appropriate to the grade as required to support the efficient operation of the catering service.

 
General Skills

• Previous experience in catering, hospitality, food service or a healthcare environment is desirable.
• Knowledge of food hygiene procedures and safe food handling practices.
• Understanding of customer service principles and patient-focused care.
• Attention to detail to ensure meals are prepared, presented and delivered accurately.
• Good interpersonal skills with the ability to listen and communicate effectively.
• Physical fitness and ability to undertake manual handling activities.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work as part of a team or under your own initiative.
• Ability to respect patient confidentiality at all times.
• Flexible approach to work and changing service requirements.
• Ability to follow instructions and work to tight time constraints.
• Good time management skills.
• Understanding of food allergen awareness and food safety requirements.

Qualifications & Training
Level 1 Food Hygiene Certificate

• Food Allergy Awareness Training or willingness to undertake training.
• Previous experience in a similar catering role.