Restaurant Server

The Big Cat Sanctuary

Kent Closing date for applications is: 25th Oct 2026 Contact: Lisa Pressland ([email protected]) Sector: Hospitality/Catering Type: Paid Contract type: Part-time Salary: £22,464 PA (£13.50 an hour)

Restaurant Server Part-Time, Permanent (32 hours per week, 4 over 7 days)

Location: On-site at The Big Cat Sanctuary, Headcorn, Kent

Salary: £22,464 PA (£13.50 an hour)

The Big Cat Sanctuary is one of the UK's most remarkable conservation destinations. Our guests enjoy unique dining and overnight experiences in an intimate setting, where attentive, personalised service and attention to detail really matter.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and professional Restaurant Server to join our hospitality team.

Working across breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea, private dining and exclusive guest experiences, you will play an important role in delivering the exceptional standards of service our guests have come to expect.

This is a hands-on, guest-facing position where professionalism, attention to detail and a warm, welcoming approach are essential.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Delivering attentive food and beverage service across breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon tea and private dining experiences
• Providing a warm and professional welcome throughout the guest journey
• Taking orders accurately and confidently advising guests on menus, allergens and dining options
• Preparing and maintaining restaurant and service areas to the highest standards
• Supporting service preparation, setup and close-down activities
• Monitoring guest satisfaction and responding professionally to requests and feedback
• Building rapport with guests and creating memorable experiences
• Maintaining excellent standards of cleanliness, presentation and organisation
• Assisting with bills, payments and EPOS transactions
• Working closely with colleagues and the kitchen team to deliver smooth service

Essential What we’re looking for

• Previous experience in hospitality, customer service or a restaurant environment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• A friendly, professional and guest-focused approach
• Strong attention to detail and personal presentation
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team
• Full, clean driving licence and access to your own vehicle
• Eligibility to live and work in the UK

Desirable

• Experience within a premium hospitality, luxury or fine dining environment
• Experience using EPOS systems
• Knowledge of food allergies and dietary requirements
• Wine knowledge or hospitality qualifications
• An interest in wildlife or conservation

Working pattern This role is generally worked Thursday to Sunday, across four consecutive eight-hour shifts between 07.00 and 22.00.

Why Join Us?

• 28 days’ paid annual leave, with Christmas Day off as standard
• Enhanced family leave
• Full uniform provided
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Staff discounts and free access to participating UK and European zoos and collections
• Opportunities to develop within our Hospitality Team
• Regular team gatherings and celebrations
• The opportunity to take part in our Conservation Award and visit one of our supported conservation project

Apply For This Job How to Apply Please send your CV and a covering letter to [email protected] stating the reference Restaurant Server in the email title.

Closing Date Sunday 25th October 2026 We reserve the right to close this vacancy early depending on the number of applications received, so if you are interested, please submit your application as soon as possible.