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Catering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Execute assigned tastings flawlessly while showcasing Footers Catering culinary standards * Work closely with the Chef de Cuisine and Executive Chef to customize tasting menus based on client ...

Catering Sales Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$65K - $70K/yr

Commission Plan Wolfgang Puck Catering is committed to recruiting individuals who express an interest in and passion for hospitality-driven experiences; who come from diverse backgrounds, are open ...

Catering Coordinator

Providence, RI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Pranzi Catering & Events is seeking part-time Day of Event Coordinators. This position is per Diem and perfect for the person looking for some extra income during the summer months. This position ...

About Abby's Catering Abby's Catering has delivered one-of-a-kind culinary and hospitality experiences since 1980. We serve high-profile passengers traveling via private, corporate, and commercial ...

Catering Server

Providence, RI · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Catering Server Location: In-person Job Type: Part-time Pranzi Catering & Events is seeking a part-time event server to join our company! Come be a part of our exceptional team and work at some of ...

Catering Server

Providence, RI · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Catering Server Location: In-person Job Type: Part-time Pranzi Catering & Events is seeking a part-time event server to join our company! Come be a part of our exceptional team and work at some of ...

Catering Coordinator

Providence, RI · On-site

$15.25 - $18.25/hr

Pranzi Catering & Events is seeking part-time Day of Event Coordinators. This position is per Diem and perfect for the person looking for some extra income during the summer months. This position ...

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Catering information

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$10

$22

$36

How much do catering jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for catering in the United States is $22.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.11 and $26.92 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What Is the Difference Between a Caterer and a Chef?

The main difference between a caterer and a chef is that a caterer works at private events rather than in a brick and mortar shop. Some caterers begin their careers as chefs and then change to catering full-time. However, there is no rule that you can’t be both. Many chefs run catering businesses on the side or vice versa. Additionally, many have similar training, including culinary or hospitality school. Caterers may also switch careers to become chefs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Catering Professional, and why are they important?

To thrive in catering, you need strong organizational skills, food safety knowledge, and experience in culinary preparation, often backed by a relevant food handling certificate. Familiarity with catering management software, commercial kitchen equipment, and event planning tools is highly beneficial. Excellent communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities help you excel in dynamic, client-focused environments. These skills ensure events run smoothly, client expectations are met, and food safety and quality standards are maintained.

What are some common challenges faced by catering professionals during large events, and how can they be addressed?

Catering professionals often encounter challenges such as managing last-minute changes to guest counts, accommodating dietary restrictions, and coordinating with multiple vendors or event planners. Successfully addressing these challenges requires strong organizational skills, effective communication, and flexibility. Establishing clear protocols, maintaining open lines of communication with clients and team members, and preparing contingency plans can help ensure events run smoothly and client expectations are met.

What is catering?

Catering is a service that provides food and beverages for events, gatherings, or organizations, often including preparation, delivery, set-up, and sometimes service staff. Caterers work for a variety of occasions such as weddings, corporate events, parties, and conferences. The service can range from delivering prepared meals to full-service event planning, including menu design, table settings, and cleanup. Catering companies work closely with clients to customize menus and ensure dietary needs and preferences are met.

What is the difference between Catering vs Food Service Worker?

AspectCateringFood Service Worker
CredentialsOften requires food safety certifications, catering-specific trainingTypically requires basic food handling permits
Work EnvironmentEvent venues, private parties, corporate eventsRestaurants, cafeterias, fast food outlets
Employer & IndustryEvent planning companies, catering servicesRestaurants, food establishments, hospitality industry
Job FocusPreparing, serving, and managing food at eventsServing customers, food prep, maintaining cleanliness

While both catering and food service workers handle food, catering focuses on preparing and serving food at special events and requires event-specific skills and certifications. Food service workers typically work in restaurants or cafeterias, providing daily customer service. The roles overlap in food handling but differ in environment and scope.

What cities are hiring for Catering jobs? Cities with the most Catering job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Catering jobs? The most popular types of Catering jobs are:
What states have the most Catering jobs? States with the most job openings for Catering jobs include:
Infographic showing various Catering job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 64% Full Time, and 36% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,074 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
Catering Specialist - Offsite Events

Catering Specialist - Offsite Events

Nelson's Catering, Inc.

Springfield, IL

$25/hr

Part-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

Catering Event Specialists will load trucks, drive Nelson's Catering vans to client location, setup and serve delivery drop off and full service events across Central Illinois. Maintain the highest food safety and sanitation practices while providing top notch customer service and professionally representing Nelson's Catering. 


Requirements:

Available weekends and flexible open schedule 

Reliable transportation and valid drivers license 

Valid drivers license

Can Do Attitude

Able to lift 40 pounds

Must have a clean record

Applicants must be 18 years or older

Food Handlers Card 

Customer Service Experience 

Team player 


Compensation and Benefits: 

$25.00 per hour rate including generous guaranteed $7.00 per hour gratuities

$50.00 per $100.00 per week boost bonuses 

Comprehensive Training with experienced team leaders 

Opportunities for Advancement

Health Insurance plan, Supplement Dental and Vision Plan, Simple IRA, and PTO


Why Work at Nelson's Catering?

Experience is everything!  We are a growth oriented employee owned and operated full-service catering company. We provide top notch catering services paired with delicious, award winning food!  Our business is very fast paced. Our work environment is positive, and we take pride in cultivating relationships with our clients. Superior customer service as well as going above and beyond our client's expectations is the key to our success.  


We are in search of candidates interested in joining a team that is creative, hardworking, and takes pride in their work. 

Qualified applicants will be contacted by phone or email by our catering services team for a prescreening interview.


Employment Type: PART_TIME