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Catering Associate Jobs in Hawaii (NOW HIRING)

Responsible for proactively soliciting and handling large group/catering related opportunities with ... We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and ...

Senior Sales Executive

Honolulu, HI · On-site

$91K - $115K/yr

Responsible for proactively soliciting and handling large group/catering related opportunities with ... We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and ...

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Catering Associate information

See Hawaii salary details

$11

$16

$21

How much do catering associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for catering associate in Hawaii is $16.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.24 and $18.46 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a catering associate do?

A catering associate serves food and drinks to customers at special events hosted by a catering company, such as a party or wedding. As a catering associate, your job duties include taking guests’ orders, maintaining the buffets, and refilling beverages. Although you do not need formal education to become a catering associate, the position typically requires on-the-job training and excellent customer service skills. Additional qualifications include relevant work experience and multi-tasking ability. You may also obtain a certificate or associate degree in catering to help advance your career in the foodservice industry.

What is a catering associate?

Catering Associates are professionals who assist with the preparation, setup, and service of food and beverages for events such as meetings, parties, or large gatherings. Their responsibilities typically include arranging tables, setting up buffets, serving guests, and ensuring that food safety standards are met. They may also help with the cleanup after events and coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure smooth service. Catering Associates play a key role in creating a positive experience for event attendees by providing efficient and friendly service.

What is the difference between Catering Associate vs Catering Server?

AspectCatering AssociateCatering Server
ResponsibilitiesAssisting with event setup, food preparation, and customer serviceServing food and beverages, attending to guests, and clearing tables
Required SkillsCustomer service, teamwork, basic food handlingCustomer service, food handling, communication skills
Work EnvironmentEvent venues, catering companies, outdoor eventsEvent venues, banquets, private parties
CertificationsFood safety certification often preferredFood safety certification often required

While both roles involve working in catering settings, Catering Associates typically assist with event setup and food prep, whereas Catering Servers focus on serving guests and attending to their needs during events. Both positions require customer service skills and food safety knowledge, but their specific duties differ based on the event stage and responsibilities.

What are some typical challenges faced by catering associates during large events and how can they be managed?

Catering Associates often face challenges such as managing time-sensitive food service, handling last-minute changes to event details, and ensuring all dietary requirements are met. To manage these effectively, it's important to stay organized, communicate closely with the kitchen and event coordinators, and maintain flexibility in responding to guests' needs. Developing strong teamwork and problem-solving skills can help Catering Associates navigate these situations smoothly and ensure a positive experience for clients and guests.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a catering associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Catering Associate, you need strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and experience in food service or hospitality, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with food safety standards, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and inventory management tools is typically required. Outstanding communication, teamwork, and customer service skills help you manage client needs and collaborate with colleagues effectively. These skills ensure seamless event execution and high customer satisfaction in a fast-paced catering environment.

Are catering associate jobs stressful?

Catering associate jobs can be stressful during busy events or peak hours due to the need to coordinate food service, manage time efficiently, and handle customer interactions. The job often requires multitasking, working under pressure, and maintaining a professional demeanor in a fast-paced environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Catering jobs in Hawaii?

The most popular types of Catering jobs in Hawaii are:

What cities in Hawaii are hiring for Catering Associate jobs?

Cities in Hawaii with the most Catering Associate job openings:

Infographic showing various Catering Associate job openings in Hawaii as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,184 per year, or $16.9 per hour.

Sous Chef - Hawaii Preparatory Academy

Compass Group

Kamuela, HI • On-site

$60K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 29 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,088 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

345th of 491 rated business services


Job description

Salary: $60000 - $65000 / year
Other Forms of Compensation: N/A
Flik Independent School Dining has been leading the way in transforming private and independent school foodservice across 300 communities for over four decades. Our passionate team of associates is fully committed to delivering exceptional foodservice experiences every single time. Our meals are crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, supporting sustainable agricultural practices that benefit our communities. But we don't stop at just foodservice - we take it to the next level by offering cutting-edge nutrition education programs that empower students to make smart, healthy choices daily. By combining nutritious meals with comprehensive education, we equip students with the essential tools they need to lead a healthy and thriving life. We believe in nourishing the whole person, creating community through great food and programming, and doing what's right, every time.
We are Nourishing a Brighter Future.
Job Summary
As a Sous Chef at Hawai'i Preparatory Academy (HPA), an independent, coeducational day and boarding school in Waimea, Hawai'i, serving approximately 570 students in Kindergarten through Grade 12, you will play a key leadership role in supporting a dynamic school dining program. Reporting to the Executive Chef, you will assist with daily food production, menu development, catering execution, inventory management, and the supervision of hourly kitchen associates. This is an exciting opportunity for an upbeat and motivated culinary professional with a passion for scratch cooking, creativity, and excellence in food quality and presentation. You'll have the opportunity to help deliver exceptional dining experiences for both day and boarding students while contributing to a vibrant campus community dedicated to student success.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Assist the Executive Chef in daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, production, and supervision of back-of-house staff.
  • Support cost control initiatives by assisting with inventory management, ordering, and minimizing food waste.
  • Help plan, develop, and implement menus that align with company culinary standards, student preferences, and nutritional guidelines.
  • Lead or support the preparation and execution of catered events, ensuring high-quality food, presentation, and service.
  • Implement and support new culinary programs and initiatives in collaboration with the Executive Chef and corporate culinary team.
  • Ensure all food safety and sanitation guidelines are rigorously followed, including compliance with HACCP and allergy protocols.
  • Maintain high standards for food quality, cleanliness, and organization in all kitchen areas.
  • Participate in training and mentoring hourly culinary staff to support skill development and team culture.
  • Champion a safe, inclusive, and collaborative kitchen environment that reflects the values of the school community and company.

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Associate degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience.
  • 2+ years of dynamic culinary or kitchen management experience in high-volume foodservice operations; K-12, institutional, or contract dining preferred.
  • Strong catering experience and ability to lead special events.
  • Knowledge of scratch cooking, batch production, and food cost controls.
  • Confirmed understanding of food trends, seasonal ingredients, and sustainable practices.
  • ServSafe Certification highly preferred.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Outlook, and internet-based tools.
  • Excellent communication and leadership skills with a strong sense of ownership and collaboration.
  • Dedication to customer happiness and a passion for crafting delicious, nutritious meals for students and school communities.

Apply to Flik today!
Flik Independent School Dining is a member of Compass Group USA
Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story
Associates at Flik Independent School Dining are offered many fantastic benefits.
  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information. https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_FISD.pdf
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.
Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Flik Independent School Dinning maintains a drug-free workplace.
Req ID: 1552644
FISD
STEPHANIE FREER
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