Waiting Staff (Variable Hours)

Introduction
This is an excellent opportunity to work at the heart of Parliament, supporting our busy Catering and Retail Services (CRS) function as Waiting Staff within bars, restaurants and during banqueting events on the Parliamentary Estate. 
CRS has the responsibility for the provision of catering facilities to Members, their guests, Staff of the House and visitors. It also provides a private function service to Members of the House and sells House of Lords’ gifts and souvenirs in the Gift Shop.

The post holder will work as part of a small or large team to ensure that the highest standards of service and presentation are offered at all times to Peers, Guests and Staff of the House. Variable hours staff are booked one week ahead according to business needs and their availability. Variable hours staff may be working in different outlets (Restaurants, Bars and Banqueting) depending on the needs of the Department and require a range of service skills.

The Role
Within this role, you could be working as waiting staff in one of our Dining Rooms, bar staff, restaurant assistants or banqueting waiting staff. 

Responsibilities within these areas include: 

• To greet and receive Members and guests in your allocated area
•  Take food and drink orders ensuring prompt and accurate service
• Clearing bar and table areas of dirty glasses, crockery, cutlery and other items maintaining a high standard of cleanliness
• Ensure communication between the servery and the kitchen is clear and concise so orders are correct for cook to order food in the staff restaurants
• Set-up of cold counters such as salads, drinks and desserts and follow correct labelling procedures and ensure stock is properly rotated
• Till operations onto EPOS with accurate cash handling
• Ensure the correct hygiene practices are adopted at all times
• Set up and service of private event rooms for a variety of functions ranging from cocktail parties to small and large breakfasts, lunches, teas and dinners
• Working as part of a team to deliver events to the highest standards

The full list of role responsibilities can be found on the job description.

Competencies and Experience 

• Possess a current food hygiene certificate or be able to demonstrate knowledge and be willing to train.
• Possess a basic health and safety certificate or be able to demonstrate knowledge and be willing to train.
• Have experience of working in a high profile (preferably 4* or 5*) establishment.
• Have a commitment to customer care and be able to demonstrate this.
• Be able to work well as part of a team, as well as on your own initiative, in a pressured environment.
• Have good communication skills and a good command of spoken and written English.
• Have good organisational skills.
• Be courteous and approachable.
• Tact, discretion, and good judgement.

Next Steps
If you would like to apply for this role, please submit an application form demonstrating how your skills/experience meet all of the essential competencies on the Job Description.

More information on the role and the full list of duties and criteria can be found on the Job Description.