About us
Polhill Garden Centre is a family-owned business with over 60 years of history, passion, and commitment to delivering an exceptional experience for our customers. While much has evolved over the years, our values remain the same: providing outstanding service, supporting one another like family, and taking pride in everything we do.
We are looking for a friendly, hardworking, and enthusiastic Kitchen Porter / Wash Up Assistant to join our busy Restaurant team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment and being part of a supportive team.
About the role
Join our dynamic team as a Washup / Restaurant Assistant, where your energy and enthusiasm will help keep our kitchen running smoothly and our guests delighted. In this vital role, you’ll be responsible for ensuring the cleanliness and organization of our kitchen area, assisting with food preparation, and supporting the overall flow of restaurant operations. Your positive attitude and attention to detail will contribute to creating a welcoming environment for both staff and customers. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to develop your culinary and hospitality skills in a fast-paced setting.
Responsibilities
- Maintain cleanliness of all kitchen equipment, utensils, and work areas to uphold health and safety standards
- Assist with basic food preparation tasks, including chopping, assembling ingredients, and portioning items
- Support cooking activities by preparing ingredients and ensuring smooth kitchen operations
- Handle dishwashing duties efficiently, ensuring all dishes, glassware, and cookware are sanitized and ready for use
- Restock supplies and organize storage areas to ensure the kitchen remains tidy and well-stocked
- Support serving staff with timely delivery of food items and clearing tables as needed
- Follow safety protocols at all times to maintain a safe working environment for everyone
Requirements
- Prior experience in a restaurant, hotel, or hospitality environment is preferred but not essential; enthusiasm and willingness to learn are key
- Basic knowledge of food preparation techniques and cooking processes
- Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks such as lifting or moving supplies
- Strong attention to cleanliness, organization, and safety standards
- Excellent teamwork skills with a positive attitude toward supporting colleagues
- Flexibility to work various shifts including evenings, weekends, or holidays as needed
- A genuine interest in hospitality, culinary arts, or related fields is a plus
What We Offer
- Generous staff discount of up to 25% off products in store
- Company pension scheme
- Uniform provided
- Full training and support
- Free on-site parking
- Staff meals provided whilst on duty
- Sociable daytime working hours
- A friendly and supportive working environment
Hours:
- Monday: 9.00am - 5.30pm
- Thursday: 9.00am - 5.30pm
- Friday: 9.00am - 5.30pm
- Saturday: 9.00am - 5.30pm
- Sunday: 10.00am - 4.00pm
This role is perfect for motivated individuals eager to gain hands-on experience in a lively restaurant setting while contributing to an exceptional guest experience. We welcome applicants who are passionate about food service, eager to learn new skills, and committed to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and efficiency.
Pay: £12.71 per hour
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Employee discount
- Employee mentoring programme
- Free parking
- Health & wellbeing programme
- On-site parking
- Store discount
Work Location: In person