Retail Assistant

Department

Retail

Location

Colchester Zoological Society

Employment Type

Part Time

Hours Per Week

Zero-hour Position

Salary

To be discussed at interview

Closing Date

23rd October 2026

If you are interested in applying, send the completed form along with your CV by email to [email protected]

Introduction to the Department

As part of our Retail Team, you will be helping to provide our visitors a first-class experience within The Outpost Gift Shop and Coffee Lounge, by assisting with customer enquiries, understanding individual needs, and ensuring the highest standards of product presentation on the shop floor. This role provides opportunities for development and progression within the department.

Role Responsibilities

• Contributing to the daily operations and any tasks deemed appropriate.
• Meet and warmly welcome customers as they enter the shop.
• Assist customers with any enquiries.
• Enter sales on cash registers and handle customer payments.
• Keep up to date with promotions and pricing in order to provide advice to customers.
• Replenish, promote and display product lines to maximise sales.
• Help ensure hygiene and cleanliness within the store.
• Assist with the operation of our Coffee Lounge.

Role Requirements

• Previous experience within the retail industry is desirable but not required.
• Full training will be provided.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work both within a team and individually.

Working Hours

This is a zero-hour position with the opportunity to work up to 5 days per week during the holidays. Applicants must be available to work at weekends and across holiday periods after completing a probationary period. Weekday term time availability is also desirable.

A limited number of evening shifts are required mainly during special events such as Halloween and Christmas. Finish times vary throughout the year in line with the opening hours.

Working Environment

• CZS is a non-smoking environment and smoking is not permitted by members of staff whilst on the premises.
• CZS is an equal opportunities employer.

Benefits

• FREE Zoo visits*

• FREE onsite parking

• Work place pension scheme

• Staff events

• Discounts on Animal Adoptions, Annual Memberships and Animal Experiences*

• Discounts in the Outpost Gift Shop*

• Discounts in food outlets

• Annual leave which accrues based on hours of work

• Competitive hourly rate

• Regular training

• Benefits dependent on probation period.