Banquet/Event Associate

Job Summary:

A Much Ado Catering Associate supports catering operations by assisting with pre-event preparation, event setup, service, and cleanup, and post-event pantry organization. This role requires excellent customer service skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment. The catering associate reports directly to the catering manager. This is a 9-month full time position.

Much Ado Catering is the Catering Department under Davidson Dining Services. During the academic year, our dining locations operate seven days a week serving three meals a day for the students, guests, staff, and faculty of Davidson College. This position is a part of the Davidson Dining Services Department and may require cross departmental assistance in another dining location outside of catering.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Event Setup:
   
   
   
   • Transport food, supplies, and equipment to event locations.
   
   
   • Set up tables, linens, and buffets/serving stations according to event specifications.
   
   
   • Ensure all catering equipment is clean and in proper working condition.
   
   
   • Manage time when working independently to ensure the timely completion of set up and breakdown.
   
   


2. Service:
   
   
   
   • Serve food and beverages to guests in a professional and courteous manner.
   
   
   • Replenish food and beverage stations as needed.
   
   
   • Address guest inquiries and resolve any service issues.
   
   


3. Cleanup:
   
   
   
   • Clear tables and remove trash during and after events.
   
   
   • Clean and pack equipment and supplies after events.
   
   
   • Ensure the catering area is left clean and organized.
   
   


4. Customer Interaction:
   
   
   
   • Provide excellent customer service to clients and guests.
   
   
   • Communicate effectively with the onsite host to understand their preferences and any day of needs that may arise.
   
   


5. Team Collaboration:
   
   
   
   • Work closely with other catering staff and kitchen personnel to accomplish a common goal.
   
   
   • Follow instructions from Catering Managers and Banquet Captain.
   
   


6. Policy and Procedures:
   
   
   
   • Ability to maintain and uphold the policies and procedures of Much Ado Catering and Davidson Dining Services.
   
   
   • Policies including but not limited to dress code, personal hygiene, safety standards, attendance, and all others identified in the employee handbook
   
   
   • Must complete all required trainings assigned to the position
   
   
   • A Much Ado Catering Associate is a direct representative of the department and must conduct themselves in a professional manner at all times.
   
   

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in catering, food service, or hospitality is preferred but not required.


• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.


• Excellent communication and customer service skills.


• Ability to work independently or as part of a team.


• Strong time management skills. Must have a sense of urgency.


• A willingness to learn and capacity to retain and apply new knowledge.


• This role has physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, carrying and / or extended walking and standing. 

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods.


• Ability to lift, push, pull, carry up to 25 pounds.


• Ability to perform repetitive tasks with a high level of accuracy.

Working Conditions:

• Work is performed in various environments, including kitchens, event venues, and outdoor locations.


• May involve exposure to hot and cold temperatures, sharp equipment, and slippery surfaces.

This job description outlines the general duties and responsibilities of a Catering Associate. Specific duties may vary based on the needs of Davidson Dining Services.

Night and Weekend Work Required: Yes

Benefits

• Insurance is available.


• Tiered shift differential pays for evenings and weekends.


• Holiday pay.


• Vacation hours accrual.


• Sick time accrual.


• Meals are included during the employee’s normal work hours.

Information about how to submit an application can be found at https://employment.davidson.edu