Counter Service Assistant
What is the work like?
As a counter service assistant you could work in a range of eating places, including snack bars, canteens, cafes, fast food outlets and self-service restaurants. Your work would involve welcoming and serving customers who buy food over the counter.
Your key tasks would include
- serving food to customers
- keeping the eating and serving areas clean and tidy
- taking cash and card payments, and giving out change and receipts
- cleaning and clearing tables.
Depending on the type of food outlet, you may be involved in preparing food and helping with tasks such as mixing sauces or preparing salads. In small establishments, such as snack bars, the job may involve preparing all food and drink. In fast food restaurants you would normally be trained to do basic cooking or re-heating.
What qualifications and experience will employers look for?
You will not usually need any specific qualifications to become a counter service assistant. Previous experience in hospitality, customer service or catering would give you an advantage. A basic food hygiene certificate or a GCSE in hospitality or similar, may also be useful.
You may be able to get into this job through an Apprenticeship scheme. The range of Apprenticeships available in your area will depend on the local jobs market and the types of skills employers need from their workers. For more information on Apprenticeships, visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk (link opens in new window).
What further training and development can I do?
You would be trained on the job by experienced members of staff. Some large fast food chains have detailed training programmes for new staff, while other employers have their own training schools, or use local colleges and training providers.
Whichever setting you work in, you can expect to be trained in areas such as health and safety, and hygiene. You may also be encouraged to work towards a qualifications such as:
- NVQ Level 1 in Hospitality
- NVQ Level 2 in Food and Drink Service
- NVQ Level 2 in Multi-Skilled Hospitality Services.
With experience you could progress to NVQ Level 3 in Hospitality Supervision, which includes units in supervision and management.
Where can I go for more information?
Armstrong House
38 Market Square
Uxbridge
Middlesex
UB8 1LH
Tel: 0870 060 2550
http://www.uksp.co.uk/ (careers information)
If you would like to discuss your career options with a learning adviser at learndirect Careers Advice, call 0800 100 900 or use our online enquiry form
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What salary and other benefits can I expect?
- Starting salaries for full-time counter service assistants can be between £10,500 and £13,500 a year.
- With experience this can rise to around £15,000.
- Supervisors can earn around £18,000 a year.
Figures are intended as a guideline only.
What are the hours and working conditions?
You would work around 40 hours a week as a full-time assistant, including evening and weekend shifts. Part-time and seasonal work is often available.
Restaurants and kitchens can be hot, humid, noisy and very busy. You will need a smart appearance and your employer may provide you with a uniform.
What skills and knowledge will I need?
- a welcoming, friendly and polite manner
- good customer service skills
- the ability to work as part of a team
- high standards of personal hygiene
- the ability to work effectively under pressure
- maths skills with the ability to handle money accurately.
What opportunities are there?
You could work in a variety of eating places, including cafes, self-service restaurants, business canteens, schools, colleges, snack bars, and fast food outlets.
Staff turnover is high, so there are always vacancies advertised in the local press and in Jobcentre Plus. Larger employers are more likely to have a career structure that may allow you to be promoted to supervisory or management roles.
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