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Catering Associate Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

CATERING ATTENDANT

Wise, VA · On-site

$16/hr

We are hiring immediately for full time and part time CATERING ATTENDANT positions. * Address : 1 ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Compass Group

CATERING ATTENDANT (FULL TIME)

Reston, VA · On-site

$25/hr

* We are hiring immediately for full time CATERING ATTENDANT positions. * Location : Anduril Reston ... Associates at Eurest are offered many fantastic benefits. Full-time and part-time positions offer ...

Chartwells HE

CATERING ATTENDANT (FULL TIME)

Fairfax, VA · On-site

$24.70/hr

Prior catering, banquet, and event setup experience preferred. * Pay Range: $24.00 per hour to $24 ... Associate Shopping Program * Health and Wellness Programs * Discount Marketplace * Identity Theft ...

Panera

Catering Lead

Vienna, VA · On-site

$12.77 - $18.25/hr

Panera Catering Lead At Panera, our people come first. If you're looking for a place where you can ... Must be able to clearly communicate and quickly understand guests and associates' directions in a ...

Panera Bread

Catering Lead

Virginia Beach, VA

$12.77 - $17.25/hr

Catering Lead At Panera, our people come first. If you're looking for a place where you can grow ... Must be able to clearly communicate and quickly understand guests and associates' directions in a ...

Panera Bread

Catering Lead

Richmond, VA

$12.77 - $17.25/hr

Catering Lead At Panera, our people come first. If you're looking for a place where you can grow ... Must be able to clearly communicate and quickly understand guests and associates' directions in a ...

Panera Bread

Catering Lead

West Springfield, VA · On-site

$12.77 - $18.25/hr

Catering Lead At Panera, our people come first. If you're looking for a place where you can grow ... Must be able to clearly communicate and quickly understand guests and associates' directions in a ...

Panera Bread

Catering Lead

Baileys Crossroads, VA

$12.77 - $18.25/hr

Catering Lead At Panera, our people come first. If you're looking for a place where you can grow ... Must be able to clearly communicate and quickly understand guests and associates' directions in a ...

Panera Bread

Catering Lead

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$12.77 - $18.25/hr

Catering Lead At Panera, our people come first. If you're looking for a place where you can grow ... Must be able to clearly communicate and quickly understand guests and associates' directions in a ...

Panera Bread

Catering Lead

Glen Allen, VA

$12.77 - $17.25/hr

Catering Lead At Panera, our people come first. If you're looking for a place where you can grow ... Must be able to clearly communicate and quickly understand guests and associates' directions in a ...

Panera Bread

Catering Lead

Falls Church, VA · On-site

$13.25 - $20.25/hr

Catering Lead At Panera, our people come first. If you're looking for a place where you can grow ... Must be able to clearly communicate and quickly understand guests and associates' directions in a ...

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Catering Associate information

See Virginia salary details

$10

$16

$20

How much do catering associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for catering associate in Virginia is $16.14, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.52 and $17.64 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 Virginia?

The most popular types of Catering jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Catering Associate jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Catering Associate job openings:

Catering Associate jobs near you
Infographic showing various Catering Associate job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 24% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,574 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

CATERING ATTENDANT (FULL TIME)

Compass Group

Arlington, VA

$23/hr

Full-time, Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Compass Group rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 1,089 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

344th of 492 rated business services

Job description

  • We have an opening for full time CATERING ATTENDANT positions.
  • Location: Deloitte - 1919 North Lynn Street, 4th Floor, Arlington, VA 22209. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Full time; Days and hours may vary. More details upon interview. 
  • Requirement: Previous catering experience is required.
  • Fixed Pay Rate: $23.00 per hour.

We Make Applying Easy!  Want to apply to this job via text messaging?  Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1553972. 

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg

 

This position is eligible for an Employee Referral Bonus! If you know someone that is qualified for this role, please use the ‘job search’ in PeopleHub to refer your referral and email them a link to apply. Your referral will be able to apply by clicking the link in the email. You can check the status through your profile, accessible via Careers in PeopleHub, by clicking on ‘referral tracking.’ For Employee Referral guidelines, FAQs and the Compass Employee Referral Policy, email MyReferral@compass-usa.com. 

Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry’s leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations! Voted Glassdoor's Employee Choice Awards- Best Places to work This is R/A !

​

Job Summary


Summary:   Delivers and serves food at scheduled functions under the supervision of the catering captain. Ensures the accurate execution of all events during his/her shift. May drive a catering delivery truck. Sets up and serves at functions; cleans event area during and after events; breaks down the setup and leaves the area neat and clean; returns leftover food and equipment to the catering facility in a timely manner.  
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Assembles and delivers all food and supplies for catered functions to their scheduled locations.
  • Logs and maintains food temperatures.
  • Arranges tables and decorations.
  • Arranges buffet tables with food, beverage and service items according to standards.
  • Serve food and beverages to guests.
  • Thoroughly cleans location after event is completed.
  • Returns food and beverages, serving equipment and utensils to catering facility.
  • Distributes and collects customer comment cards for catered functions.
  • Stocks, cleans and maintains catering facility and equipment.
  • Ensures guests receive friendly, courteous service at all times.
  • Maintains in-depth knowledge of complete menu and products on hand.
  • Maintains clean and safe work environment.
  • Follows safety and sanitation policy and procedures at all times.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.


Qualifications:  

  • Valid driver's license may be required; must possess or able to obtain a valid food handler's permit and/or alcohol servers' permit where required by state law.

Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits.

Both full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Retirement Plan
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program

In addition, full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Abides by all Company policies and procedures including but not limited to: 

  • The use of a medium weight cut gloves when handling or using knives, peelers, choppers, mandolins or cleaning a slicer. 
  • The use of oven mitts, fryer gloves or steamer gloves when handling hot pans from ovens, warmers or steamtables. 
  • The use of slip-resistant shoes and proper lifting techniques. 

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_RA.pdf

About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry

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.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/ 

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. 

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