Retail Customer Assistant
Royal Voluntary Service is seeking a Retail Customer Assistant to join our team at Sunderland Royal Hospital, Kayll Rd, Sunderland SR4 7TP.
Position type: part-time, permanent. Salary: £12.71 per hour (FTE £23,136 per annum).
About the role
Our hospital cafe, shop and trolley services are a part of the NHS and provide an outstanding range of beverages and healthy food choices. The cafe supports volunteer action across hospitals and the community.
As a Retail Customer Assistant you will work alongside a friendly team of employees and volunteers and support the day‑to‑day operation of our busy retail sites at Sunderland Royal Hospital.
Responsibilities
- Provide friendly, helpful and efficient service at all times.
- Welcome customers, inform them about specials or new products, answer questions and accept orders and payments.
- Operate the till and perform cash reconciliation.
- Maintain high level of cleanliness and compliance with Health and Safety and food hygiene standards; keep all areas tidy.
- Replenish stock and displays regularly; order supplies when needed.
- Prepare hot and cold drinks (café).
- Serve freshly made food such as cakes, sandwiches and pastries (café).
- Assist with incoming deliveries, distribute, rotate stock and conduct regular stock checks.
- Engage with volunteers, direct and lead to ensure a positive volunteer experience.
- Push loaded trolleys of stock for long distances, where required.
Qualifications
- Previous experience in a retail or café environment is an advantage; training will be provided.
- Positive attitude, can‑do mindset and willingness to work.
- Outstanding customer service skills and excellent communication.
- High organisational skills.
- Proficient with email and internet.
- Flexible approach to working hours.
- Enjoy working within a passionate team and independently.
- Proficient literacy and numeracy.
- Knowledge of EPOS/till systems a plus.
- Experience in general administrative processes.
- Willingness to undertake training and CPD.
Hours and overtime
18 hours per week, shift pattern to be confirmed after interviews. Retail sites are open on weekends and bank holidays. Opportunities for paid overtime during busy periods or to cover absences.
Benefits
- £12.71 per hour (FTE £23,136 per annum)
- 26 days’ holiday pro rata + paid statutory bank holidays pro rata
- Up to 2 days paid volunteer leave per year via the employer‑supported volunteer scheme
- Ten weeks’ company sick pay after successful completion of probation
- Pension scheme with 8% employer contribution
- Base salary death in service benefit (subject to qualification)
- Enhanced family leave schemes
- Access to exclusive rewards website for discounts and cashback online
- 24‑hour doctor line, financial support with dental/optical and other therapies
- Free and confidential employee assistance programme with up to six face‑to‑face counselling sessions
- Flexible working options
- Opportunities to develop new skills and progress career
- Chance to make a positive, lasting impact on lives, communities and society
How to apply
If you have the skills and experience to become our Retail Customer Assistant, apply today. The closing date for this role is 11 August 2026, though we reserve the right to close early if sufficient applications are received.
Equal Opportunity
We celebrate difference and encourage everyone to be themselves at work. To learn more about our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion, visit our website.
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