JOB ADVERT:
Role: Kitchen Porter
Location: Academy of Light, Sunderland
Employment Type: Permanent
Application Closing Date: 5th September 2025
About Us:
Sunderland AFC is more than just a football club; we are a proud community institution that embodies the spirit of our city.
At the heart of our club is “The Relentless Obsession”—an unwavering passion which fuels our pursuit of success, inspires our players, and ignites the spirit of our supporters. We embrace every challenge with determination, striving to play the beautiful game with flair and tenacity.
At Sunderland AFC, we believe in the power of football to unite and inspire. Our commitment extends beyond the pitch as we strive to make a positive impact through various community initiatives, empowering individuals and celebrating diversity.
Join us on our journey as we continue to build on our legacy, fuelled by “The Relentless Obsession” for greatness.
About the Team:
The Performance and Medicine Team play a crucial role at Sunderland AFC, where science meets sport to optimise player health and enhance performance!
Our mission is to create a robust support system that ensures every athlete can perform at their peak while minimising the risk of injury.
We employ a multi-disciplinary approach, integrating sports science, nutrition, and medical expertise to tailor our programs to each player’s specific needs.
Join us as we continue to elevate the standards of player care and performance enhancement at Sunderland AFC, ensuring our athletes are not just fit, but thriving in all aspects of their game!
The Opportunity:
As a Kitchen Porter, you'll provide essential support to both the kitchen and front-of-house teams by ensuring the cleanliness of kitchen items, equipment, machinery, floors, and surfaces. Your role will help maintain high hygiene standards and safe practices across all areas.
Though this is an entry-level position, you'll play a vital role in keeping the kitchen organised, sanitised, and running smoothly, allowing our chefs to focus on preparing exceptional meals.
In addition to maintaining cleanliness, you may also assist with food preparation, ingredient prep, and setting up workstations, contributing directly to the kitchen's overall efficiency.
This is an exciting opportunity to be part of the fast-paced world of professional football and to join a dynamic, thriving kitchen team.
What We Ask For:
While no specific qualifications are required, we are looking for someone who is ready for a physically demanding role and brings a positive attitude to the team. You'll be an important part of the team behind the team, supporting our kitchen in keeping everything running smoothly.
We offer a variety of daytime shifts for Kitchen Porters throughout the week. While most shifts are consistent, we occasionally require flexibility as things in football can change quickly, and the kitchen needs to adapt to keep up with the fast-paced environment.
An Enhanced DBS from Sunderland AFC is required.
Why Join Us at SAFC:
At Sunderland AFC, you’re not just becoming part of a football club; you’re entering a vibrant community fuelled by passion and pride. Our commitment to making a difference means you’ll engage with local initiatives that truly matter, allowing you to leave a positive impact right here at home.
You’ll thrive in an exciting, dynamic atmosphere where every day is a new adventure filled with the thrill of football and teamwork. We believe in nurturing talent, so you’ll have access to training programs and mentorship opportunities.
Our diverse and inclusive culture celebrates individuality, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued. You’ll be part of a team that unites in the spirit of collaboration and respect, making your work environment both rewarding and inspiring.
As standard, we also offer the following benefits:
- 22 days leave (in addition to public holidays), increasing to 27 days after 5 years’ service
- Death in Service
- Complimentary Season Tickets
- Enhanced Paternity, Maternity and Adoption Leave
- Employee Assistant Programs
- Various Discount Packages including Club Store
- Free Parking
Additional benefits may be available, depending on the job role and experience
Join Sunderland AFC and contribute to the rich legacy of our proud club. We can’t wait to welcome you to our family!
Equal Opportunities:
Sunderland AFC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to a policy of treating all employees and job applicants equally. Our aim is that all colleagues should be able to work in an environment free from discrimination, harassment and bullying.
Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adults
Sunderland AFC recognises that the safeguarding and protection of children and vulnerable adults is of paramount importance within the organisation. Sunderland AFC owes a duty of care to safeguard all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities organised by the football club. Sunderland AFC will ensure that safety and protection is given to all children and vulnerable adults involved in activities through adherence to the Safeguarding guidelines adopted by the Club.
Importantly, safeguarding is not the responsibility of a single individual or team; it is a collective responsibility that involves everyone associated with the club. From staff and volunteers to players and supporters, each person has a crucial role in creating a safe and welcoming environment. All members of the Sunderland AFC community are encouraged to remain vigilant, follow safeguarding procedures, and report any concerns promptly, knowing that safeguarding is a shared responsibility that helps protect those most vulnerable.
Job Type: Permanent
Work Location: In person
Application deadline: 05/09/2025
Reference ID: Kitchen Porter