Banquet/Event Associate

Much Ado Catering Associate

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Team Collaboration:

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

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.

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.