Are you passionate about delivering friendly, efficient and high-quality customer service?

We’re looking for enthusiastic and reliable student staff to join our team at The Union, supporting the day-to-day running of our Union Shop and Cafe. In this role, you’ll be helping to create a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone. Your responsibilities will include preparing and serving food and drinks, maintaining high standards of cleanliness and hygiene, and assisting with stock management and merchandising. You’ll also play a key part in keeping the space well-presented and engaging, contributing to a positive atmosphere that reflects the values of The Union and enhances the overall student experience.

Who are we? 

Located in the heart of Manchester, The Union is part business, part charity, part membership body. Operating independently from Manchester Metropolitan University, our aim is to support and represent each one of our student members. Each year our growing team of around 50 full time and up to 100 part time staff, work alongside elected student leaders to make change, improve lives and help fulfil student potential.

The Union is one of 550 students’ unions across the country. And we’re one of the most exciting - with over 38,000 student members and 100 student groups, a huge range of services and a bold strategy.

What's the job? 

We’re looking for enthusiastic and reliable student staff to join our team at The Union, supporting the day-to-day running of our Union Shop and Cafe. In this role, you’ll deliver friendly, efficient, and high-quality customer service while helping to create a welcoming and inclusive space for everyone.

Main activities / tasks

• Preparing and serving an array of hot and cold drinks
• Knowledge and adherence of food safety
• Demonstrating excellent customer service
• Assist in the preparation and service of a food menu whilst ensuring a 5* approach to food safety guidelines
• Ensuring the café and front of house areas are clean and tidy
• Following health and safety guidelines
• To undertake tasks and duties in support of the needs of the specific service area under the direction of the Retail Manager or supervisor
• To support management and supervisors with the intake of stock, the processing of stock and the upkeep/replenishment of stock areas
• Handling cash and card payments and accurately using the till system
• Becoming knowledgeable in all aspects of café and retail work, including a strong product knowledge
• Lead by example, by always promoting a positive image of The Union through high personal standards of integrity and professionalism
• To deal with disputes and customer complaints in a constructive and positive way
• The post holder will be required to work specific Union events at key times of the year, including (but not limited to): Welcome week, Manchester Punk Fest and Manchester Psych Fest

Qualifications

• You must be a student of Manchester Metropolitan University for the 2025/2026 academic year

 

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Experience

• Demonstrable experience of working in a comparable customer facing role

 

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Knowledge and skills

• Must be willing to complete mandatory Food Safety, Health & Safety and Licensing training ahead of role commencement. This training will be provided and paid for
• To attend meetings and training events as required

 

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Personal attributes

• You’ll be the face of The Union so having a friendly, welcoming and all-round excellent approach to customer service
• Strong listening and communication skills
• Great attention to detail
• Be adaptable in your approach to tasks and responsibilities, working collaboratively with different departments and supporting activities across The Union

 

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Values and ethics

• Understanding of and commitment to the principles of equity, inclusion and diversity, and The Union’s values

Why apply?

There has never been a better time to work for The Union. Based just off Oxford Road, in the centre of vibrant Manchester, The Union will train you thoroughly, reward you well and encourage you to build a long-term career that inspires you.

The exact opposite of corporate, we’re progressive, creative individuals working to make a difference in unconventional workplaces. In return for your passion and experience, we offer the flexibility for work-life balance, a competitive salary for the non-profit sector and excellent holiday allowance.

We’re committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from all protected characteristics and are particularly interested in applications from people of colour and disabled people.

We want to support diverse and inclusive work environments and are actively looking for people who share our values.