Cafe Assistant

Main purpose of role

Charleston Café at Firle is entering an exciting phase of development, with a growing focus on seasonal, locally sourced, and home-grown food that reflects our connection to the surrounding landscape and community.

The Café Assistant plays a key role in delivering an exceptional visitor experience by providing friendly and efficient customer service, preparing and serving food and beverages, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and presentation, and supporting the smooth day-to-day operation of the café. The role contributes to creating a welcoming environment that complements Charleston's creativity, artistic integrity, and values.

Areas of Responsibility

Customer Service

· Deliver excellent customer service and create a warm and welcoming experience for visitors

· Take customer orders accurately and efficiently using the café EPOS system.

· Handle card payments, issue receipts, recharge items on account and process refunds in accordance with procedures.

· Respond to customer enquiries professionally and refer any concerns or complaints to the Café Supervisor when appropriate.

· Promote menu items, seasonal specials, and café offerings in a knowledgeable and engaging manner.

Food and Beverage Service

· Prepare and serve food and beverages in line with café standards and food safety requirements.

· Prepare barista-style coffee and hot drinks using commercial coffee equipment (training provided where necessary).

· Serve alcoholic beverages responsibly and in accordance with licensing regulations and company procedures.

· Assist with food preparation, display, and replenishment throughout service.

· Ensure food is presented attractively and to a consistently high standard.

Operational Support

· Assist with opening and closing duties, following established procedures and checklists.

· Restock food, beverages, consumables, and retail items as required.

· Support stock monitoring and notify supervisors of low stock levels or supply issues.

· Assist with deliveries and ensure stock is stored correctly and safely.

· Support the setup and breakdown of events, private hires, and functions.

Health, Safety and Compliance

· Maintain high standards of cleanliness, food hygiene, and health and safety throughout the café and visitor areas.

· Carry out cleaning duties in line with daily, weekly, and seasonal schedules.

· Follow food safety procedures, including temperature monitoring and safe food handling practices.

· Comply with all Charleston policies, procedures, and security requirements.

· Contribute to maintaining a safe, clean, and welcoming environment for visitors, staff, volunteers, and contractors.

General Duties

· Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure efficient café operations.

· Attend training sessions and team meetings as required.

· Support Charleston events and activities as needed.

· Act as an ambassador for Charleston, promoting its values and enhancing the visitor experience.

· Undertake any other duties reasonably required by your line manager.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Essential Skills and Experience

· Previous experience in a customer service, hospitality, retail, or café environment.

· Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

· A positive, flexible, and professional attitude.

· Ability to work effectively as part of a team.

· Good organisational skills and attention to detail.

· Good understanding of food hygiene and health and safety standards.

· Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards.

· Reliable, punctual, and willing to learn.

· Ability to travel independently to Charleston's rural site in Firle.

Desirable Experience

· Previous experience working in a café or food service environment.

· Barista training or experience using commercial coffee equipment.

· Food Safety Level 2 Certificate.

· Experience serving alcohol in a licensed premises.

· Experience working within a cultural, heritage, arts, or visitor attraction setting.

· Experience supporting events, functions, or hospitality activities.

KEY COMPETENCIES

· Customer-focused and approachable.

· Enthusiastic and welcoming.

· Reliable and hardworking.

· Strong teamwork skills.

· Adaptable and proactive.

· Calm and professional under pressure.

· Committed to maintaining high standards.

· Passionate about delivering an excellent visitor experience and supporting Charleston's mission and values.

Pay: £12.71 per hour

Expected hours: 4.0 – 20.0 per week

Benefits:

• Company events
• Discounted or free food
• Employee discount
• On-site parking

Work Location: In person