Day Porter/Reception ~ Full time

We are looking to recruit a Day Porter/receptionist to join our busy Porters’ Lodge. In general people gain their first impressions of New College from the Lodge so it is vital that it is seen to be working efficiently and that the Porters are perceived as helpful and courteous.

Suitable candidates will be able to demonstrate that they can cope well under pressure in a calm and professional manner. They should be able to communicate clearly both verbally and in writing and be PC literate. Previous experience of working in a customer-facing role would be an advantage and the successful candidate will be expected to qualify as a First Aider.

The shift pattern is made up of 12 hours shifts working 2 days on followed by 2 days off, averaging 42 hours per week.

Applicants should be able to meet the following criteria:

1.      To have a polite, courteous and friendly manner.

2.      To have a flexible attitude and a sense of humour.

3.      To have experience in a customer-facing role.

4.      To be numerate and literate (educated to a minimum of GCSE level in Maths and English Language).

5.      To be able to remain calm in stressful situations.

6.      To be PC literate.

7.      To have 1st aid training or be able and willing to undertake 1st aid training.

8.      To be punctual and to have a good attendance record.

9.      To be physically fit (the College grounds are large and need regular patrols).

10.   To be clean and of smart appearance whilst on duty (uniform is provided).

Whilst the duties of a this role are variable and can be unpredictable, an idea of what is expected of the postholder is listed below:

1.   Attend at the Lodge except when called away to an emergency or carrying out a security patrol.

2.   Operate the Lodge telephones, transfer calls, answer queries, take and deliver messages.

3.   Give accurate information to callers at the Lodge, direct visitors.

4.  Be courteous and helpful at all times.

5.   Issue keys, keeping accurate records of issue and receipt.

6.   Keep an accurate record of incidents.

7.   Use Lodge database systems eg. KX and Salto.

8.   Receive, act upon and respond to lodge e-mails.

9.   Monitor CCTV images and act on anything unusual or suspicious.

10. Challenge trespassers and ask them to leave the premises.

11. Carry out random security patrols within College walls, Longwall Street, New College Lane, the Sports Ground and the Mansfield Road properties. Pick up any unsightly litter around the College during the patrol.

12. Respond to calls for assistance from all parts of College.

13. Close gates and lock up in accordance with the prevailing timetable.

14. Keep the Lodge, the Post room and areas around the Lodge in clean and tidy condition.

15. Read and understand the Emergency Procedures and Guidelines for the Porters’ Lodge. Ask the Head Porter or Senior Porter for clarification or explanation of any points.

16. Be alert for incidents such as fire, flood, accident and theft and take appropriate action. In such instances, contact Oxford University Security Services and or emergency services if necessary.

17. Undertake any ad hoc duties that may be considered appropriate for the experience and capabilities of a Porter.

18. Receive and record lost property items.

19. Due to the nature of the position and the information that is received in the Lodge, it is vitally important that all Porters observe confidentiality at all times.

This role will remain open until a suitable applicant is appointed.

Early application is recommended as each application will be reviewed upon receipt.

All applications must include a CV, a covering letter and the contact details of 2 references, one of which should be your most recent employer.