ESS – Defence, Energy and Government Services
Retail Assistant

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Retail Assistant (Permanent Casual) – Defence Team
We're looking for a Retail Assistant who will ensure Defence delivers exceptional customer service on a permanent casual basis (contracted to 0 hours/week but available on your agreed schedule).
You’ll join a dedicated team that takes pride in serving quality food and real people. Working alongside passionate colleagues, you’ll have every opportunity to progress while belonging to a workplace that celebrates individuality and rewards employees who go the extra mile.
About the Role
As a Retail Assistant at Defence, you’ll:
- contribute to a fast-paced, friendly team
- feel empowered to progress within a company that invests in its people
- play a key role in delivering a seamless customer experience
Shift Pattern (Example)
While hours are 0, shifts typically fall on:
- Mon: Evenings
- Tues: Evenings
- Weds: Evenings
- Thurs: Evenings
- Fri: Evenings
- Weekends: As needed (flexible)
Your Key Responsibilities
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You’ll help create positive experiences by:
- Serving customers with friendliness and responsibility
- Personalising service to meet individual needs
- Ensuring knowledgeable engagement with Defence’s offerings
- Representing Defence’s brand with professionalism
- Handling cash transactions and operating POS systems
- Complying with Health & Safety, hygiene, and company protocols
Ideal Candidate Traits
We’re looking for someone who:
- Loves great customer service—brings energy, a welcoming smile, and passion
- Takes initiative—makes decisions for a smooth experience
- Works well under pressure—thrives in a dynamic retail environment
- Communicates clearly—collaborates effectively in a team
- Demonstrates reliability—excellent timekeeping and attendance
- Embraces a growth mindset—willing to develop skills and succeed
- Celebrates diversity—feels comfortable being authentic at work
About Essence Services (Ess) — Defence
Part of Compass Group UK & Ireland, Ess supports:


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- 250+ UK military facilities
- High-security environments and government sites
- Onshore/offshore energy projects (drilling rigs, floatels, offices)
"A friendly face makes all the difference"—and we look for people who embody friendliness, empathy, and integrity to serve our distinct customer base.
Why Join Us?
We’re committed to creating a culture where:
- Everyone is valued for their unique background and abilities
- Opportunities exist for all to reach their potential
- Inclusivity is at the heart of our team, inclusive of LGBT+, ethnities, disabilities, and neurodiversity
- Career progression is supported through learning and reward
Defence is part of Compass Group, where you’ll ultimately be helping teams thrive in some of the most impactful work environments in UK Defence, Energy, and Civics.
Job Reference: com/2206/94662001/52815977/BU
#Defence #BelongWhereYouBelong
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