Events & Catering Paid Internship

Events & Catering Paid Internship 

Happy Hospitality Group

At Happy Hospitality Group, we believe events should be unforgettable — and so should your career journey. The Catering & Events Intern is designed as a launchpad role for someone eager to break into the fast-paced hospitality and events industry.

This position offers the unique chance to learn every angle of the business: from off-site catering operations to high-energy private events at our restaurants. You’ll receive direct mentorship from experienced Catering and Events Managers, while gaining the hands-on skills needed to grow into a future leader in the industry.

If you’re a current student or a recent graduate who thrives on details, loves connecting with people, and wants to grow in an environment that balances fun, creativity, and professionalism — this role was built for you.

Paid Internship Opening: Events & Catering 

Job Description

Event Support

• Manage all buffet-related supplies and inventory for private events.
• Create and maintain SOPs for elevated buffet setups and streamlined catering inventory control.
• Assist with buffet setups for large private events.
• Support event setups including tables, décor, linens, and service areas.
• Serve as on-site events associate for larger-scale private events across the Chicago area.
• Assist with guest flow, vendor coordination, and service timing during events.
• Provide post-event feedback and assist with recap reports for process improvement.

Catering Operations

• Manage all incoming off-site catering orders from inquiry to fulfillment.
• Operate and maintain TripleSeat and EzCater platforms for efficiency and accuracy.
• Track and report catering sales metrics, including detailed channel/source breakdowns.
• Oversee catering equipment inventory, maintenance, and storage.
• Coordinate all delivery logistics, invoicing, and payment processing.
• Build and maintain relationships with local businesses to grow catering sales.
• Monitor and maintain food quality and presentation standards for all catering orders.
• Collaborate with kitchen teams to confirm order details and delivery timelines.

General Coordination & Administration

• Maintain organized event and catering files for easy reference.
• Communicate with internal teams (kitchen, FOH, management) to ensure alignment on event details.
• Support marketing efforts for catering and events (e.g., updating menus, photos, social content requests).
• Assist in creating proposals, contracts, and BEOs (Banquet Event Orders).
• Provide exceptional customer service to all catering and event clients.

      Mentorship & Career Growth

• Work side-by-side with the Events & Catering Manager and senior leadership to gain real-world mentorship
• Shadow leaders during high-profile events for exposure to advanced planning and execution
• Receive regular coaching and feedback intended to promote and foster professional growth
• Gain visibility into all aspects of restaurant group operations (catering, events, F&B, and guest experience).

Qualifications

• Applicant must be at least 21 years old
• Degree in Hospitality, Event Management, Communications, or something similar 
• Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills.
• Detail-oriented with a proactive, customer-centric attitude.
• Ability to handle physical setup tasks as needed (e.g., buffet setup, equipment loading).
• Flexibility for occasional extended hours or multiple events in a day.
• Valid drivers license required 
• Comfortable driving around the city of Chicago. Mileage reimbursement provided for catering deliveries (if applicable). 
• Able to supply own housing in the city. 

Compensation & Benefits

• Compensation: $16.60/hr to $20/hr DOE *Additional compensation for catering deliveries.
• Benefits:
  • Dining discounts across Happy Hospitality Group locations
  • Opportunity to participate in outside work activities such as Windy City Smokeout and Cubs Games 
  • Clear pathway for career advancement within our growing Catering & Events division

Schedule: Part-time, approximately 10–15 hours per week, typically scheduled across 2–3 days per week. Work schedules will be provided in advance based on event and catering needs, with efforts made to maintain consistency where possible.

This role requires on-site presence for scheduled events, including occasional evenings and weekends. On event days, the intern may support multiple events within a single shift. Flexibility is appreciated, and scheduling will be coordinated in advance whenever possible.

Location: Chicago, IL (housing not provided)

Date: June - August 2026

Job Type: Part-time, entry-level 

Department: Events

Reports to: Event Coordinator and Director of Operations

FLSA Code: Non-exempt/Intern

Happy Hospitality  is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity in gender, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, religion, age, veteran status, life experiences and ideas. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and strive to provide an inclusive culture that embraces diversity.

Must be eligible to legally work in the United States.