Kitchen Assistant
4 hours ago
Woodford, Woodford Green
Job Title: Kitchen Assistant Reports To: Café Manager / Head Cook Job Purpose To assist in the efficient day-to-day operation of a busy café kitchen, ensuring high standards of food preparation, hygiene, cleanliness, stock management, and customer service support are maintained at all times. Key Responsibilities Prepare ingredients and assist in the preparation of sandwiches, snacks, light meals, salads, baked goods, and other menu items. Ensure food is prepared, presented, and stored in accordance with food safety regulations. Assist with cooking and food service during busy periods. Operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently. Maintain high standards of cleanliness throughout the kitchen, including food preparation areas, storage areas, equipment, utensils, and floors. Wash dishes, pots, pans, and kitchen equipment as required. Carry out daily and weekly cleaning schedules. Monitor food temperatures and complete food safety records where required. Rotate stock using FIFO (First In, First Out) procedures and check product dates. Assist with stock control, stock takes, and ordering of supplies. Receive deliveries, check orders against delivery notes, and store items correctly. Report stock shortages, damaged goods, or equipment faults promptly. Assist with organising kitchen rotas and ensuring adequate staffing cover. Support opening and closing kitchen procedures. Ensure compliance with Health & Safety, Food Hygiene, and COSHH regulations. Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure smooth kitchen operations. Provide excellent customer service when interacting with customers. Work efficiently during busy periods while maintaining quality and attention to detail. Undertake any other reasonable duties required to support the smooth running of the café. Essential Requirements Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate. Previous experience in food preparation within a café, kitchen, catering, or hospitality environment. Knowledge of food safety and hygiene regulations. Experience of stock control and ordering. Good organisational and time management skills. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment. Reliable, punctual, and flexible approach to work. Good communication skills. Desirable Requirements Experience of rota planning or staff scheduling. Experience with stock management systems. Basic food preparation or catering qualification. Personal Attributes Positive and professional attitude. Strong attention to detail. Excellent standards of cleanliness and hygiene. Ability to prioritise tasks effectively. Hard-working, dependable, and self-motivated. Calm and efficient under pressure. Please put on for me