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Catering Associate Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

Part Time Store Associate

Davenport, IA · On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

... caterers and so much more! Come help us champion a "Customer is King" environment and see why we ... As a Part Time Store Associate you bring fun into our store! No 2 days are ever the same - a great ...

EXECUTIVE CHEF - WEST DES MOINES

West Des Moines, IA · On-site

$70K - $96K/yr

... unit associates excel as they deliver world-class meals in corporate cafes and executive dining rooms with on-site catering through vending innovations and more. Our company is innovative, high ...

Restaurant Team Member

Des Moines, IA

$11.75 - $15.25/hr

Associate Department/Function: Operations Location: Field, Assigned to Specific Shop Reports to ... Deliver catering orders as detailed in the Catering Driver and Delivery Agreement. * Prepare meats ...

Restaurant Team Member

Des Moines, IA

$11.75 - $15.25/hr

Associate Department/Function: Operations Location: Field, Assigned to Specific Shop Reports to ... Deliver catering orders as detailed in the Catering Driver and Delivery Agreement. * Prepare meats ...

Restaurant Team Member

Ames, IA · On-site

$10 - $13/hr

Associate Department/Function: Operations Location: Field, Assigned to Specific Shop Reports to ... Deliver catering orders as detailed in the Catering Driver and Delivery Agreement. * Prepare meats ...

Restaurant Team Member

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$11.75 - $15.25/hr

Associate Department/Function: Operations Location: Field, Assigned to Specific Shop Reports to ... Deliver catering orders as detailed in the Catering Driver and Delivery Agreement. * Prepare meats ...

Restaurant Team Member

Ames, IA · On-site

$10 - $13/hr

Associate Department/Function: Operations Location: Field, Assigned to Specific Shop Reports to ... Deliver catering orders as detailed in the Catering Driver and Delivery Agreement. * Prepare meats ...

Restaurant Team Member

Des Moines, IA · On-site

$11.75 - $15.25/hr

Associate Department/Function: Operations Location: Field, Assigned to Specific Shop Reports to ... Deliver catering orders as detailed in the Catering Driver and Delivery Agreement. * Prepare meats ...

Food Service Lead

Cedar Rapids, IA · On-site

$15.50 - $21/hr

... patient, retail, catering, and special function services. The role provides direction to food ... High School Diploma/GED - required Associate's Degree - preferred Experience : Minimum 3-5 years of ...

Food Service Lead

Cedar Rapids, IA

$15.50 - $21/hr

... patient, retail, catering, and special function services. The role provides direction to food ... High School Diploma/GED - required Associate's Degree - preferred Experience : Minimum 3-5 years of ...

... patient, retail, catering, and special function services. The role provides direction to food ... High School Diploma/GED - required Associate's Degree - preferred Experience: Minimum 3-5 years of ...

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA · On-site

$51K - $56K/yr

With more than 31,000 associates nationwide, Morrison uses the Power of Food to create personalized ... Produces and execute catering events * Assist in the supervision, preparation, and cooking of ...

Sous Chef

Davenport, IA · On-site

$51K - $56K/yr

With more than 31,000 associates nationwide, Morrison uses the Power of Food to create personalized ... Produces and execute catering events * Assist in the supervision, preparation, and cooking of ...

With more than 31,000 associates nationwide, Morrison uses the Power of Food to create personalized ... Produces and execute catering events * Assist in the supervision, preparation, and cooking of ...

Retail Sales Associate

Davenport, IA

$13.25 - $15.25/hr

Catering to more than runners, we pride ourselves on having an inclusive environment! We believe it's a privilege to serve and to deliver unmatched service and support when outfitting every customer.

Retail Sales Associate

Davenport, IA · On-site

$13.25 - $15.25/hr

Catering to more than runners, we pride ourselves on having an inclusive environment! We believe it's a privilege to serve and to deliver unmatched service and support when outfitting every customer.

Showing results 41-60

Catering Associate information

See Iowa salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do catering associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average hourly pay for catering associate in Iowa is $15.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $16.73 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 Iowa? The most popular types of Catering jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Catering Associate jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Catering Associate job openings:
Infographic showing various Catering Associate job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 71% Full Time, 25% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,808 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Part Time Store Associate

Gordon Food Service

Davenport, IA • On-site

$14.50 - $16.50/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 7 days ago


Gordon Food Service rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 208 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

200th of 360 rated logistics


Job description

Gordon Food Service Store LLC
Location: 340 W Kimberly Rd, Davenport, IA, 52803
Now Hiring for our NEW Gordon Restaurant Market!
Weekly Pay!
Location: 340 W Kimberly Rd, Davenport, IA 52806
  • Store Hours - Monday through Saturday 7AM-8PM; Sunday 9AM-6PM
  • Holidays Off - We are CLOSED on Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day and Easter.
  • Advancement - High internal promotion rate and development programs available!
Gordon Food Service prides ourselves on the competitive wages and benefits offered:
  • Profit Sharing and 401(k) Plan
  • Employee Assistance Programs
  • ComPsych 24/7 Mental Health Support
  • Employee Discounts - 10% off your purchases
  • Beneplace Discount Program

Eligible employees can also take advantage of:
  • Affordable Health Insurance
  • Prescription, Dental and Vision Insurance
  • Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance
  • PTO and Flex time
  • Company Note Savings Program
  • 12 Week - 100% Paid Maternity Leave
  • Free Health Management Resources and Programs

Gordon Food Service Store, the retail division of Gordon Food Service, offers the fast pace of retail in an environment that lets you balance your life and foster development for future growth.
Our 170+ stores are the primary supplier for many small food service operators, families, non-profit organizations, caterers and so much more!
Come help us champion a "Customer is King" environment and see why we set the bar for customer satisfaction in the retail industry!
As a Part Time Store Associate you bring fun into our store! No 2 days are ever the same - a great opportunity to learn and even greater opportunity for advancement!
Does this sound like you?
  • At least 16 years of age
  • Able to provide superior customer service
  • Able to multitask
  • Work on your own or within a team
  • Basic math and computer skills
  • Able to lift up to 50 lbs

BE PART OF AN AMAZING CULTURE WHERE WHAT MATTERS TO YOU, MATTERS TO US!
Gordon Food Service values our customers and understands that their success is largely dependent upon their workforce. To demonstrate our commitment to our partnership, we will require any candidate who works for a Gordon Food Service customer to provide a letter of support from their management if they are selected for the interview process.
Equal Employment Opportunity is a matter of policy at Gordon Food Service, Inc. and we are committed to a work environment in which all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a protected veteran, or status as a qualified individual with disability. If you require reasonable accommodation for any part of the application or hiring process due to a disability, please submit your request to talent@gfs.com and use the words "Accommodation Request" in your subject line.
All Gordon Food Service locations are tobacco-free.
Gordon Food Service is a drug-free workplace.

What Gordon Food Service employees say

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Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom


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About Gordon Food Service

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Since our 1897 founding, Gordon Food Service has grown to become the largest family-managed broadline foodservice distribution company in North America. While we've been growing pretty much continuously over these 125 years, we've remained consistent at the core of what and who we are: passionately committed to customers and employees. Being part of Gordon Food Service means being part of something important, something bigger than oneself.We take care of you as if you were part of our family by providing benefits that give choice and flexibility for what matters most to you. We aim to deliver a competitive package that not only supports you but also your family. Full-time employees are provided benefit options to support work-life and your need to take care of yourself and those close to you, including paid time off, 401k with company match, profit sharing, tuition reimbursement for you and the whole family, and more!We feel the culture when we work together, and when we serve together. As a team, we tackle our challenges, celebrate our successes, and have fun on the journey. Be part of it.

Industry

Food and beverage wholesalers

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Wyoming, MI, US

Year founded

1897