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Catering Associate Jobs in Mississippi (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

CATERING TO YOU ADSOCIATE

Starkville, MS · On-site

$15/hr

* We are hiring immediately for a Full and Part Time CATERING TO YOU ASSOCIATE position. * Location : Baptist Memorial Hospital-Oktibbeha County, 400 Hospital Road, Starkville, MS 39759 Note: online ...

Compass Group

CATERING TO YOU SUPERVISOR

Gulfport, MS · On-site

$17/hr

Supervises catering associates. * Ensures alternatives to menu as allowed on prescribed diet in accordance with food allergies and sensitivities, cultural, ethnic and religious preferences, when ...

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All JobsCatering Associate JobsCatering Associate Jobs in Mississippi

Catering Associate information

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$10

$15

$19

How much do catering associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for catering associate in Mississippi is $15.42, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.89 and $16.83 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 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 the positions in catering?

In catering, common positions include Catering Assistant, Catering Server, Banquet Server, Catering Supervisor, and Catering Manager. These roles involve food service, event setup, customer interaction, and coordination, often requiring teamwork and communication skills. Certifications like food safety may be beneficial for some positions.

What is the highest position in catering associate?

The highest position for a catering associate typically is a Catering Supervisor or Catering Manager, responsible for overseeing event operations, managing staff, and coordinating client services. Advancement often requires experience, leadership skills, and sometimes relevant certifications in hospitality or food service management.

What qualifications does a catering associate need?

A catering associate typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent and strong customer service skills. Prior experience in food service or hospitality is often preferred, and knowledge of food safety standards and basic food handling is beneficial. Certifications such as ServSafe may be required or advantageous depending on the employer.
More about Catering Associate jobs

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

The most popular types of Catering jobs in Mississippi are:

What cities in Mississippi are hiring for Catering Associate jobs?

Cities in Mississippi with the most Catering Associate job openings:

Catering Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Catering Associate job openings in Mississippi 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 $32,072 per year, or $15.4 per hour.

Retirement Job - Part Time Catering Associate

South Depot Taco Shop

Oxford, MS

Part-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

10-15 hours per week. Great job for someone retired but looking for something to do.


South Depot Taco Shop is looking for a part-time catering delivery team member. Flexible schedule based on delivery orders. Must be 18 years+ with a valid driver's license and good driving record.


  • Pack all catering orders and load out all items
  • Deliver all catering orders on time
  • Setup orders onsite
  • Maintain catering supplies
  • Keep up with a flexible schedule but adapt to last-minute changes based on the customer's needs.

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