Important Info & FAQs

Some things, you just need to know. Like how to find local vacancies, or how long it takes to apply. Here, you’ll find your answers.

faqs about sainsburys

Applicants under 18

You must be of compulsory school leaving age to be considered for a role with us. (Leaving age does vary in different parts of the UK. Visit www.gov.uk/know-when-you-can-leave-school to find out more.)

And to work in certain departments, you must be aged 18 or over. You’ll see the requirement highlighted for our online delivery driver and convenience store roles, or for positions handling certain products. You also need to be at least 18 to do shift work that covers hours earlier than 6am, or later than 11pm.

Right to work in the UK

It’s our responsibility to ensure anyone we employ is legally entitled to work in the UK. And that’s before your employment commences. So don’t be surprised when we ask you to provide evidence, at either your assessment or your interview.

Visit www.gov.uk/legal-right-work-uk to find out which documents you need to show us.

Criminal Convictions

Rest assured that we’re an inclusive employer. So what we’re looking for is potential. We don’t believe a criminal record is necessarily a reason to reject your application, but there are certain convictions which may prevent us from taking your application further.

Why can't I see any vacancies for my local store, or desired support function on the recruitment website?

If we don’t have any vacancies, they won’t appear on our website. But it’s worth checking back regularly. Even if we’re not looking for someone today, we might be tomorrow.

What if I’m interested in more than one position at Sainsburys, or with Sainsbury’s DTD?

There is no limit to how many roles you can apply for (within reason and in-line with experience/aspirations/suitability).

I applied for a job with Sainsbury’s or Sainsbury’s DTD in the past, can I still apply?

Theoretically yes, but please note that there may be exceptions – if you’re applying for a role which you have interviewed for in the last 6 months, please speak to the relevant recruiter.

How will I know if my application has been successful?

If your application has been successful, we’ll either send you an email or give you a call to let you know.

Will I need to show any documentation during the recruitment process?

We need to see proof of your age and your right to work in the UK (that’s your passport or visa if you’re a non UK/EU citizen).  Applying for a job as an online driver? Show us you have at least one year’s driving experience, and no more than 6 points on your licence.

For a store role, can I work different hours to the ones advertised?

We advertise the hours we need you to work. Whilst we will try and make reasonable adjustments, only apply for a role if you can work the majority of the hours advertised.

What is the application process like and how long will it take?

It varies, depending on the role you’re applying for. We might ask you to upload your CV or take an online test. (Allow plenty of time for this, somewhere you’re not going to be disturbed.) Then, we might invite you to interview.

What is your interview process?

Our interviews are different depending on the role you apply for. We will always do our best to fit around you. In some cases, we only have limited dates for interviews available – so please be flexible.

For store roles, you are invited to book your interview, which you can change, as long as you are not changing them on the same day. You can log into the link you used to book your slot. If you can’t attend any of the alternative times, contact the store directly. For store support roles, you will be contacted by a recruiter to arrange your interview and if you need to rearrange it, please contact your recruiter.

I’m nervous for my interview--do you have any tips for a successful interview with Sainsbury’s?

Our recruiters will always send out some interview guides to help you prep.

When it comes to Sainsbury’s DTD, what kind of candidate are you looking for?

We like to see candidates who have a real passion for Digital, Tech, and Data, along with the required technical skills. And, as with all jobs at Sainsbury’s, someone who demonstrates and lives by our core values.