General Assistant in Hospitality and Salon Studies

Join Colchester Institute – Where Your Career Makes a Difference

At Colchester Institute, we believe in the power of education to transform lives and communities. As one of the leading providers of education and training in the region, we are proud to offer a dynamic, supportive, and forward-thinking working environment.

We are seeking a dedicated General Assistant in Hospitality and Salon Studies to support the day-to-day running of our kitchens and/or salons and help maintain high standards across all learning and commercial areas. You will play a vital role in ensuring that classrooms, salons and kitchens are fully prepared, well‑organised and safe for learners, staff and clients. Working closely with lecturers and technicians, you will support practical sessions, maintain equipment, manage stock levels and contribute to the smooth operation of both educational and commercial activities.

Job Title:
General Assistant in Hospitality and Salon Studies

Term time only, 15 hours a week, 38 weeks a year

About the role:

• Support teaching staff, technicians and students across the curriculum in kitchens and/or salons.
• Prepare materials, equipment and resources in a timely and effective manner.
• Help ensure all equipment is maintained in a safe, operational condition, reporting faults to the Technician Supervisor.
• Adhere to Health & Safety at Work regulations and promote safe working practices at all times.
• Assist with maintaining cleanliness and housekeeping in salons and kitchens, including during commercial sessions.
• Undertake laundry duties to support Hospitality and Salon Studies.
• Participate in allocated shift patterns, including daytime and evening work.
• Undertake training relevant to the post and maintain up-to-date professional knowledge.
• Uphold the College’s Safeguarding, Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, Health & Safety and College Values.
• Carry out any additional reasonable duties aligned with the nature of the role.

Essential

Qualifications:

• Education to Level 2 or above and/or a relevant professional qualification.
• Minimum Level 2 English and Maths (GCSE Grade C/4 or equivalent).
• Practical experience within a commercial kitchen and/or salon.
• Experience working effectively as part of a team.
• Awareness of Health & Safety at Work regulations.
• Good ILT/IT skills.

Essntial

Experience:

• Strong housekeeping and organisational skills.
• Good oral and communication skills.
• A flexible, adaptable “can‑do” attitude with a willingness to learn.
• Ability to build and maintain positive, professional relationships with staff and learners.
• Commitment to safeguarding and creating a safe learning environment.

Why join us?

At Colchester Institute, we value our staff and invest in their growth. Joining us means becoming part of a vibrant community dedicated to excellence in education and training. If you are passionate about making a difference and inspiring the next generation, we would love to hear from you.

We do not engage with recruitment or search agencies unless they have been officially contracted in line with our PSL.