Team Catering – Catering Assistant Positions in Bristol | Entry-Level Opportunities – July 2025

Job Description: Catering Assistant Positions in Bristol

Main Responsibilities:

– Assist in food preparation, cooking, and serving meals

– Set up and clean dining areas, ensuring they are tidy and well-maintained

– Help with dish washing and general kitchen cleaning duties

– Ensure food safety and hygiene standards are met at all times

– Provide excellent customer service to guests and patrons

– Assist with inventory management and stock control

– Work effectively as part of a team in a fast-paced environment

Required Skills & Qualifications:

– Good communication and interpersonal skills

– Ability to work well under pressure and in a team

– Attention to detail and commitment to high standards of cleanliness and hygiene

– Basic knowledge of food preparation and cooking techniques

– Flexibility to work various shifts, including weekends and evenings

– Physical ability to stand for long periods and lift moderately heavy items

Experience:

– Previous experience in a catering or hospitality role is desirable but not essential

– On-the-job training will be provided to successful candidates

Pay Rates:

– Pay rates for Catering Assistant positions in Bristol typically range from £12.21 to £12.50 per hour, depending on experience and the specific employer

– Some positions may offer higher pay rates for overtime or unsociable hours

Various Catering Assistant Positions in Bristol:

– School Catering Assistant

– Hospital Catering Assistant

– Event Catering Assistant

– Restaurant Catering Assistant

– Care Home Catering Assistant

– Corporate Catering Assistant

What is a Catering Assistant?

A catering assistant, also known as a catering aide or kitchen helper, provides support to chefs and kitchen staff in preparing and serving food. Catering assistants typically work in restaurants, hotels, cafeterias, catering companies, and other food service establishments. The role involves a variety of tasks to ensure smooth kitchen operations and customer satisfaction.

Catering assistant positions are entry-level jobs that provide a good starting point for those interested in a career in the culinary industry. These roles offer the opportunity to gain valuable experience working in a fast-paced kitchen environment and to learn from seasoned chefs and food service professionals. With experience and additional training, catering assistants can advance to higher level positions such as line cook, sous chef, or executive chef.

Catering Assistant Job Duties

The specific duties of a catering assistant can vary depending on the size and type of establishment, but generally include:

• Preparing ingredients by washing, peeling, cutting and chopping fruits and vegetables

• Measuring and mixing ingredients according to recipes or chef’s instructions

• Assisting with cooking and baking, including stirring, flipping and testing food for doneness

• Setting up workstations and ensuring all necessary supplies and equipment are in place

• Plating, garnishing and serving food in an attractive manner

• Keeping the kitchen clean and organized, including washing dishes, sanitizing surfaces and taking out trash

• Assisting with inventory management by unloading deliveries and organizing the pantry and fridges

• Following all food safety and sanitation procedures to maintain a hygienic kitchen environment

Catering assistants need to be able to work well as part of a team, follow instructions accurately, and maintain a positive attitude even in high-pressure situations. The ability to multitask, work quickly and efficiently, and pay close attention to detail are also important skills for success in this role.

Catering Assistant Jobs in Bristol

Bristol, a vibrant city in southwest England, offers many opportunities for those seeking catering assistant positions. Known for its thriving food and drink scene, Bristol is home to a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, pubs and other eateries. Major venues like Ashton Gate Stadium and the Bristol Hippodrome also employ catering staff for their food service operations.

Some top employers of catering assistants in Bristol include:

• Bristol City Council – provides catering services for schools, care homes and council events

• Compass Group – operates staff restaurants, cafes and vending in offices and factories across Bristol

• Levy UK – handles catering at Ashton Gate Stadium and other sports and leisure venues in the area

• Mitchells & Butlers – runs many popular restaurant and pub chains in Bristol like Harvester, Toby Carvery and All Bar One

• Sodexo – provides food services at the University of Bristol and other educational institutions

Most catering assistant jobs in Bristol are permanent part-time or full-time positions. However, temporary and seasonal opportunities may also be available, particularly with catering companies that handle weddings, festivals and other special events. Working hours can include evenings, weekends and holidays depending on the establishment.

Catering Assistant Salaries in Bristol

According to data from Indeed, the average salary for a catering assistant in Bristol is £12.21 per hour. This is slightly higher than the national minimum wage for workers aged 23 and over, which is currently £12.21 per hour. Salaries can range from around £12.21 per hour for entry-level positions to £12.50 or more per hour for those with experience.

Some employers may offer higher pay rates for overtime, weekend or holiday shifts. Full-time catering assistants working a 37.5 hour week can expect to earn around £22,000 per year on average. Those working in supervisory roles or with advanced culinary skills may be able to command higher salaries.

In addition to hourly pay, some catering assistant jobs in Bristol offer employee benefits such as:

• Free or discounted meals during shifts

• Uniforms provided

• Health insurance and pension schemes

• Paid time off for vacation and sick leave

• Staff discounts at the company’s venues or partner businesses

• Training and development opportunities to gain new skills and advance within the company

It’s important to review the specific compensation package and benefits offered by each employer when considering catering assistant positions.

Qualifications and Training

Most catering assistant roles in Bristol do not require any formal qualifications. Employers typically provide on-the-job training to teach the specific skills and procedures needed for the position. However, having a food hygiene certificate such as the Level 2 Award in Food Safety can be an advantage. This demonstrates a basic understanding of food safety principles and may be required by some employers.

For those interested in advancing their culinary skills, there are many training programs available in Bristol. The City of Bristol College offers a range of culinary arts courses, from beginner to advanced levels. These include a Level 1 Certificate in Introduction to Culinary Skills and a Level 2 Diploma in Professional Cookery.

Apprenticeship programs are another route to gain qualifications and practical experience as a catering assistant. Many catering companies and restaurant groups in Bristol offer apprenticeships that combine on-the-job training with classroom study. Apprentices work towards nationally recognized qualifications such as a Level 2 Production Chef Apprenticeship or Level 2 Hospitality Team Member Apprenticeship.

Developing skills in areas like food preparation, cooking techniques, menu planning, and kitchen management can help catering assistants progress to higher level roles. With experience and dedication, it’s possible to work up to positions such as head chef or catering manager.

Finding Catering Assistant Jobs in Bristol

There are several ways to find catering assistant positions in Bristol:

• Online Job Boards – Sites like Indeed, Reed, Caterer.com and Hospitality Jobs UK advertise current vacancies. You can search for catering assistant roles in Bristol and set up alerts for new postings.

• Company Websites – Many restaurants, hotels, contract caterers and other food service businesses in Bristol list job openings on their own websites. Check the careers or vacancies section of company sites directly.

• Recruitment Agencies – Some agencies specialize in hospitality and catering roles. They can help match your skills and experience to suitable positions and may have access to jobs that aren’t advertised elsewhere.

• Social Media – Following local restaurants, venues and catering companies on platforms like Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn can alert you to job postings and provide inside information about the business.

• Networking – Let your personal and professional contacts know you’re looking for a catering assistant position. They may know of openings or be able to provide a referral.

When applying for catering assistant jobs in Bristol, tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight any relevant skills and experience. If you don’t have direct experience in catering, emphasize transferable skills like teamwork, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Volunteering or taking on temporary work can also be a good way to gain practical experience and make contacts in the industry.

Conclusion

Catering assistant positions offer a great entry point into the dynamic and growing food service industry in Bristol. With a variety of employers and opportunities available, from restaurants and cafes to major venues and contract catering companies, there are many paths to build a rewarding career. While the work can be challenging, it also offers the satisfaction of working as part of a team to create delicious food and deliver excellent service to customers.

By developing key skills in food preparation, sanitation, and kitchen operations, catering assistants in Bristol can progress to higher level culinary roles over time. With a strong work ethic, a positive attitude and a passion for food, it’s possible to turn a catering assistant job into a lifelong career in the culinary arts.

FAQs – Find Catering Assistant Positions in Bristol with Team Catering Jobs

1. What are the primary responsibilities of a Catering Assistant in Bristol?

A Catering Assistant in Bristol is responsible for assisting with food preparation, serving meals, maintaining cleanliness in the kitchen and dining areas, and ensuring excellent customer service.

2. What qualifications are required to become a Catering Assistant in Bristol?

While formal qualifications may not always be necessary, having a food hygiene certificate and previous experience in the catering industry can be advantageous. Employers often provide on-the-job training to help you develop the required skills.

3. What are the working hours like for a Catering Assistant in Bristol?

Working hours can vary depending on the employer and the type of establishment. You may be required to work shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Part-time and full-time positions are often available.

4. What skills are essential for a Catering Assistant in Bristol?

To succeed as a Catering Assistant in Bristol, you should have excellent communication and teamwork skills, the ability to work well under pressure, and a keen attention to detail. Being physically fit and able to stand for long periods is also important.

5. What are the career progression opportunities for a Catering Assistant in Bristol?

With experience and additional training, a Catering Assistant can progress to roles such as Head Waiter, Supervisor, or even Chef. Some employers may offer opportunities for further education and development to help you advance your career in the catering industry.