Catering Substitutes

Purpose: To assist with the prep packaging staging and execution of catering orders and events on an as-needed basis. Catering Substitutes step in during peak event periods seasonal demands or staff absences to maintain high presentation standards quality control and timely fulfillment.

Responsibilities and Duties

Customer Service:

Provide courteous efficient and responsive support during catered events and order pickups.

Address dietary inquiries (e.g. vegan gluten-free major allergen concerns) with accuracy and care.

Communicate effectively with event organizers guests and kitchen supervisors to ensure smooth event execution.

Product Knowledge:

Maintain a basic understanding of catering menu options ingredients and portion guidelines.

Familiarize yourself with common dietary restrictions and allergen cross-contamination protocols.

Product Presentation and Quality:

Assist in assembling plating wrapping and labeling catering platters and individual meals to company standards.

Ensure all items staged for delivery or pickup meet quality visual presentation and fresh-temperature requirements.

Maintenance and Conditioning:

Keep catering prep staging and storage areas clean organized and properly sanitized.

Perform dishwashing tool cleanup and station breakdown/restocking during and after shifts.

Assist with proper stock rotation (FIFO) and secure food storage.

Safety:

Adhere strictly to local health department guidelines and ServSafe food handling regulations.

Safely operate kitchen tools and equipment maintaining clean and hazard-free workspaces.

Teamwork:

Work collaboratively with kitchen staff and event leaders under fast-paced time-sensitive conditions.

Adapt quickly to assigned roles based on shift priorities (e.g. prep work packaging staging or dishwashing).

Accountability:

Arrive on time for scheduled or call-in shifts ready to perform tasks with minimal onboarding supervision.

Follow assigned recipes portion rules and timing specs accurately.

Job Specific Functions:

Execute batch prep work (chopping slicing mixing ingredients) for large-scale catering orders.

Load unload and organize catering trays hot/cold transport boxes and event supplies.

Qualifications

Experience: Previous catering food prep or culinary experience preferred.

Certifications: Food Handler or ServSafe certification is a plus.

Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods bend reach and lift/carry up to 4050 lbs safely.

Availability: Flexible schedule to accept shifts on short notice including early mornings evenings or weekends as catering demands dictate.