# Dive into a Rewarding Career as a Customer Team Member at Co-op!
Are you seeking a role where you can genuinely connect with people, contribute to your community, and enjoy excellent benefits? The Co-op is looking for dedicated individuals to join their team as Customer Team Members in Newcastle Upon Tyne. This is an exceptional opportunity for those who thrive in a customer-facing environment and are eager to grow within a company that prioritizes fairness and colleague wellbeing.
This part-time, permanent position offers 20 hours per week with the possibility of regular overtime, providing a stable foundation for your career. The competitive pay of £12.60 per hour, coupled with comprehensive benefits, makes this a highly attractive prospect.
## Key Advantages for Aspiring Candidates:
This role at Co-op offers a wealth of advantages that can significantly benefit your career trajectory:
- Exceptional Benefits Package: Beyond the hourly wage, you'll receive an impressive 31 days of holiday (pro-rata), a generous pension scheme with up to 10% Co-op contribution, and access to virtual healthcare services for yourself and your family. This demonstrates Co-op's commitment to your holistic wellbeing.
- Significant Staff Discount: Enjoy a substantial 30% discount on all Co-op products in-store, plus an additional 10% discount on all other brands. This is a fantastic perk that adds tangible value to your compensation.
- Financial Wellbeing Support: The inclusion of Wagestream, a money management app, allows you to access a percentage of your earned pay before payday, offering flexibility and control over your finances.
- Comprehensive Training and Development: Co-op provides full, paid training, ensuring you have all the skills and knowledge needed to excel. Furthermore, there's a dedicated focus on personal development and career progression, highlighting their investment in your future.
- Work-Life Balance Focus: While shifts are varied, including afternoons, late evenings, and weekends, rotas are shared three weeks in advance and accessible on your phone, promoting better planning and work-life integration.
- Supportive and Inclusive Environment: Co-op champions a culture of fairness and inclusivity. They actively seek diverse teams and offer support for colleagues navigating life events, including bereavement, pregnancy loss, fertility treatment, and menopause. They are also a Disability Confident employer, ensuring a supportive recruitment process.
## Key Considerations for Your Career Path:
To ensure this opportunity aligns with your career aspirations, consider the following:
- Shift Flexibility: The role requires a degree of flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings and weekends, as the store operates with extended hours. Discussing your availability and preferences during the interview is crucial.
- Age Requirement: As the role may involve working before 6 am or after 10 pm, applicants must be aged 18 or over.
- Customer-Centricity: The core of this role revolves around providing friendly, thoughtful, and exceptional service to customers. A genuine care for others and strong people skills are paramount.
- Team Collaboration: A willingness to work collaboratively with colleagues to solve customer issues and support store operations is essential.
- Adaptability: The ability to embrace change, troubleshoot effectively, and contribute to the introduction of new products and services will be valuable.
- Community Engagement: There are opportunities to get involved in local community activities, which can be a rewarding aspect for those who value social impact.
- Application Process: Be prepared to complete two short online assessments as part of the application. The description notes that no CV is needed for mobile applications, making it accessible.
This Customer Team Member position at Co-op is more than just a job; it's an invitation to become part of a company with a strong ethical foundation and a genuine commitment to its people and communities. If you're looking for a role that offers stability, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for growth, this could be the perfect stepping stone in your career journey.