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Catering Associate Jobs in Normal, IL (NOW HIRING)

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Catering Associate information

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How much do catering associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for catering associate in Normal, IL is $15.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.33 and $17.40 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Catering jobs in Normal, IL?

The most popular types of Catering jobs in Normal, IL are:

What cities near Normal, IL are hiring for Catering Associate jobs?

Cities near Normal, IL with the most Catering Associate job openings:

TECHNOLOGY HOSPITALITY MANAGER - NORMAL, IL

Compass Group

IL • On-site

$70K - $75K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,093 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

347th of 495 rated business services


Job description

Position Title: TECHNOLOGY HOSPITALITY MANAGER - NORMAL, IL
Salary: $70,000 - $75,000
As the leader in business and industry dining, Eurest is the company to join if you want a rewarding career packed with limitless opportunities. We feed the employees of the nation's largest and most-prestigious companies -- in every state and across all industries. As a member of Eurest's leadership and professional support team, you will help our 16,000 chefs, and in-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 performing and fast growing. Our teammates are enthusiastic, committed to quality and thrive on consistently delivering unparalleled results. And did we mention we work with exciting companies and at interesting locations? Come grow your career with Eurest.
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.
Job Summary
Job Summary:
Working as an Audio Visual Manager, you are responsible for audio visual needs in a corporate conference center. Additionally, you will be responsible for the following:
Key Responsibilities:
  • The candidate must be able to problem solve to troubleshoot and provide solutions for presentation needs under high-pressure circumstances and conferences
  • Must have the ability to make immediate decisions in order to provide the client with an immediate solution without any downtime in client meetings
  • Supervise, motivate and train staff. Set up communication process including daily meetings, team meetings, communication log, etc.
  • Must be capable of managing own time, working within the broader IT department areas of responsibility
  • Work with state of the art Audio Visual conferencing equipment; including webcast and telephone conferencing
  • Oversee the management of daily operations for the conference rooms
  • Be able to upload and display PowerPoint presentations and slide shows
  • Coordinate with outside vendors to successfully execute large scale events
  • Schedule equipment and staff to cover the conference and events of the week ahead
  • speak with other technology providers to integrate services
  • Track equipment inventory and controls as well as SLA compliance including response time and customer satisfaction
  • Ensure room check inspections and regular preventative maintenance is performed on all equipment
  • Create proposals for new AV equipment, services, or staffing as requested or needed
  • To develop, evolve, compile and complete monthly and quarterly metrics and reports and business case analysis and scorecards
  • Identify continuous improvement processes for seamless customer service across both lines of business. Follow up on service challenges and take corrective action

Preferred Qualifications:
  • A Bachelor's Degree preferred
  • Minimum of four years' work experience in an audio visual manager or supervisor role
  • CTS Certification a plus
  • Advanced knowledge of integrated AV systems, inclusive, but not limited to: data projection, audio, video, Tanberg, Clear one, Extron, AT&T Connect, Cisco systems
  • Proactive mindset to anticipate and support changes in our business
  • Superior quantitative, oral and written communications and problem-solving/strategizing skills
  • Conformity to the highest standards of personal integrity and ethical behavior
  • Exceptional customer service abilities
  • Competent in MS applications - Excel, Publisher, PowerPoint, Visio, FrontPage, Word, Internet, and Outlook
  • Membership & participation in professional organizations
  • This is a hands-on job requiring both management skills and technical skills
  • Ability to move conference room tables, chairs and lift 50 pounds as needed

Apply to Eurest today!
Eurest is a member of Compass Group USA
Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story
Associates at Eurest 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/2026/01/2026_Wage-Transparency_Eurest.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.
Eurest maintains a drug-free workplace.
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

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