Centre Assistant
Location: RSPB Arne, BH20 | Contract: 6 months Fixed‑Term | Hours: Part‑Time, 4 hours per week (Saturday + overtime opportunities) | Salary: £26,228.00 – £27,999.00 Per Annum, Pro Rata
Benefits:
* Pension Scheme
* Life Assurance Scheme
* 26 days' Annual Leave
About the Role
Our cafe, shop and reception operations are essential to the visitor experience at RSPB Arne Reserve. The Centre Assistant will work within the café and shop teams to serve customers, handle payments, run the meet‑and‑greet area and support other typical café and kitchen duties.
Responsibilities
* Deliver excellent customer service and communicate well with all visitors.
* Serve food and drinks in the café and manage the shop’s cash handling and tills.
* Welcome visitors to the reserve, provide information and encourage support for conservation work.
* Assist with daily café and shop operations, including stock checks, cleaning and hygiene standards.
* Collaborate with the cafe and retail teams to maintain a friendly, inclusive environment.
Essential Criteria
* Basic numeracy and literacy skills – GCSE Maths and English or equivalent experience.
* Understanding of safe food handling and willingness to complete training.
* Confidence in using digital tools – computers, email and record‑keeping systems.
* Positive, enthusiastic approach and willingness to learn.
* Clear verbal and written communication skills – friendly, respectful and accessible.
* Ability to plan, prioritise and manage multiple tasks effectively.
* Problem‑solving skills and initiative, with ability to work independently.
* Responsive and inclusive customer service – actively listen and support visitors.
* Collaborative team working – contribute to a positive team culture.
* Experience in customer‑facing or catering environments (paid work, volunteering or similar).
* Understanding of workplace health and safety and willingness to undertake training.
* Knowledge of food preparation or service – familiarity or eagerness to learn.
* Experience handling payments and use of tills or digital point‑of‑sale systems.
Additional Information
This is a 6‑month Fixed‑Term Part‑Time role of 4 hours per week. Full induction and training will be provided, with opportunities to learn about running a busy nature reserve operation.
Closing date: 23:59, Thursday, 2nd July 2026
The RSPB is an equal opportunities employer and is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
This role is not eligible for UK Visa Sponsorship – applicants must have a pre‑existing Right to Work in the UK.
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