Description 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. Requirements 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 40–50 lbs safely. Availability: Flexible schedule to accept shifts on short notice, including early mornings, evenings, or weekends as catering demands dictate.