Hire Catering Assistants
Whether to celebrate a milestone or to hold a company meeting, any gathering can be a polished and professional event, no matter the number of guests. An events team is a collaboration of many talented professionals, including the important junior level role of catering assistant.
The process of hiring a catering assistant begins with writing an eye-catching job post. Aim to be as detailed as possible and outline the specific responsibilities and expectations of your ideal candidate. Make it accurate, detailed, and appealing! Highlighting special aspects of your company’s culture and values can help to attract the right candidate.
For a person who wants to break into the events or food industry, working as a catering assistant can be a stepping stone to learning the ropes and getting hands-on experience. Make sure to highlight the potential training and job advancement opportunities your company can offer catering assistants.
In addition to general job boards, it is prudent for hiring managers to post job announcements on industry-specific job boards, online groups, and in local communities groups as well. These measures will increase your odds of quickly hiring a fantastic catering assistant.
Catering Assistant Responsibilities
A catering assistant is a member of the wait staff for a catering team. Before an event, a catering assistant helps in food preparation tasks like washing, cutting fruits and vegetables, and other tasks that may be assigned.
Under the supervision of the catering manager, a catering assistant also assists in setting up the event area. Any design items like banners and tents may be handled by the catering assistant. They set up tables, tablecloths, utensils, and any preparation having to do with meeting food presentation, safety, and sanitation standards. If there are deliveries of food and other supplies, the catering assistant is in charge of loading and unloading the items.
Additionally, it is also the responsibility of the catering assistant to review menu details and address any questions that guests may have during the service. Catering assistants also make sure that there is no shortage of supplies during an event.
After the event, the catering assistant helps clean up the venue, store and pack supplies, and make an inventory of used and unused items. Lastly, the catering assistant may help with invoices and billing.
Catering Assistant Skills and Qualifications
How does one qualify to apply for this position? The ideal candidate for a catering assistant is passionate about food and customer service. A High School diploma or GED may be required as well as a food handler’s certificate.
Regarding work background, proven customer service experience acquired in a restaurant setting as a server is usually preferred. The candidate should be able to meet the physical demands of the job; they must be able to stand for a long period of time and carry heavy trays with food and beverages. Lastly, the ideal candidate also should be able to work in shifts, on weekends, and holidays.
Any catering team would benefit from a fantastic catering assistant. Having a reliable catering assistant on the team can help ensure that all the details of an event are attended to professionally.