ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Catering Associate Jobs in Missouri (NOW HIRING)

GREAT WESTERN DINING

Catering Associate

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Catering Associate Great Western Dining Service at Kansas City Art Institute is looking an energetic, customer service driven person to join our team. As a catering associate, you will deliver ...

Great Western Dining

Catering Associate

Kansas City, MO · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Catering Associate Great Western Dining Service at Kansas City Art Institute is looking an energetic, customer service driven person to join our team. As a catering associate, you will deliver ...

ssagroup

Catering - Associate

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Catering Associate Who are we: For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We ...

ssagroup

Catering - Associate

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

Catering Associate Who are we: For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to remain mission-focused. We ...

SSA Group

Catering - Associate

Saint Louis, MO · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

St. Louis Science Center Catering Associate Who are we: For more than 50 years, SSA has partnered with cultural attractions to design the hospitality experience journey, freeing our partners to ...

Taher, Inc.

Catering Manager

Grandview, MO · On-site

We are adding an energetic, knowledgeable catering associate to our team! Essential Functions: * Responsible for reading and understanding all event work orders to make an appropriate plan in order ...

JKV

Catering Associate, PRN (As Needed)

Lees Summit, MO · On-site

$15/hr

The associate is subject to inside environmental conditions: Protection from weather conditions but not necessarily from temperature changes. * The associate is exposed to infectious diseases. * The ...

Boone

Patient Dining Associate - Full Time, Days

Columbia, MO · On-site

$16.25 - $20.50/hr

Overview Job Summary The Catering Associate performs patient meal service for the Department of Food and Nutrition. Responsible for patient meal service on assigned units. This includes menu ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsCatering Associate JobsCatering Associate Jobs in Missouri

Catering Associate information

See Missouri salary details

$10

$15

$19

How much do catering associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 11, 2026, the average hourly pay for catering associate in Missouri is $15.27, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.75 and $16.68 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.
More about Catering Associate jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Catering jobs in Missouri? The most popular types of Catering jobs in Missouri are:
What cities in Missouri are hiring for Catering Associate jobs? Cities in Missouri with the most Catering Associate job openings:
Catering Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Catering Associate job openings in Missouri as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,765 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

Catering Associate

Great Western Dining Service Inc

Kansas City, MO • On-site

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Description:

Great Western Dining Service is a forward-thinking food service management company that recognizes the profound impact of exceptional cuisine. We believe that food fosters connection, cultivates the community, and creates enduring memories.

We are committed to cultivating a professional environment that values creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Our diverse team members are empowered to contribute fresh perspectives and inspired ideas, resulting in distinctive and memorable dining experiences for our guests.

As we continue to grow, we are proud to provide accelerated career advancement opportunities for dedicated and driven team members.


Catering Associate

Great Western Dining Service at Kansas City Art Institute is looking an energetic, customer service driven person to join our team. As a catering associate, you will deliver, organize and set up catered events and specific requested locations. Provide prompt courteous that exceeds customers expectations.

Responsibilities:

  • Assist in preparing food items for caterings
  • Set up and deliver non-perishable items in advance
  • Delivers food and beverage at designated time and place and a timely professional manor
  • Maintain a clean working environment
  • Serve as a point of contact during catered events
  • Carry and distribute catering equipment and supplies
  • Ensure all services are cleaned up or picked up at the requested times
  • Complies with all safety and sanitation policies
  • Other duties as assigned

Requirements:

  • Clean professional appearance
  • Maintain a positive attitude
  • Ability to work flexible schedule
  • Valid drivers license is a plus

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. If you are a motivated professional looking to contribute to a dynamic team, we encourage you to apply.

Requirements:

Physical requirements of the job:

  • Significant walking and other means of mobility up to 8 hours a day
  • Ability to work in a standing position for long periods of time
  • Ability to reach, bend, stoop, push/pull and frequently lift/move up to 30 pounds