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Contract Caterer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Westgate Hotel

Catering Manager

San Diego, CA · On-site

$34 - $39/hr

Catering Manager Starting at $34.00-39.00/hour + commission| Full-Time Join our hospitality team ... Responsibilities include preparing proposals and contracts, conducting engaging property tours, and ...

Zermatt Resort

Catering Sales Manager

Midway, UT · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Communication with clients to initiate, negotiate, and close contracts for all catered functions. * Creation of profitable menus and distribution of client expectations to Food & Beverage Departments.

ZERMATT RESORT

Catering Sales Manager

Midway, UT · On-site

$49K - $63K/yr

Communication with clients to initiate, negotiate, and close contracts for all catered functions. * Creation of profitable menus and distribution of client expectations to Food & Beverage Departments.

Reid's Fine Foods

Catering Coordinator

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$14.75 - $17.50/hr

Prepare catering proposals, quotes, contracts, and invoices accurately and in a timely manner * Coordinate with kitchen, retail, and delivery teams to ensure flawless execution of catering orders

COMFORT CATERERS LLC

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CATERING LOGISTICS DRIVER

Baltimore, MD · On-site

$17 - $18/hr

This role plays a critical part in ensuring seamless contract, event and client execution by ... The Driver represents Comfort Caterers at client-facing events, client locations and is expected to ...

HHM Hotels

Sales and Catering Coordinator

San Jose, CA · On-site

$23 - $24/hr

Distribute memos, contracts, resumes, room requests, amenities and other communication as it relates to sales and catering to relevant departments. * Act as a liaison between Sales/Catering Directors ...

The Verve Hotel

Catering Sales Manager

Natick, MA · On-site

$53K - $69K/yr

Key responsibilities include, sales & revenue generation, solicit and book new catering and event business, conduct site tours and present hotel offerings, negotiate contracts and pricing, achieve ...

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How much do contract caterer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 3, 2026, the average hourly pay for contract caterer in the United States is $16.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $18.27 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do caterers get clients?

Contract caterers typically get clients through networking, referrals, and building relationships with event planners, corporate clients, and venues. They also use marketing strategies such as social media, website presence, and participating in industry events to attract new business. Providing quality service and maintaining a strong reputation are key to securing repeat clients.

What are contract caterers?

Contract caterers are companies or individuals hired to provide food and beverage services for organizations, events, or institutions on a contractual basis. They typically manage all aspects of food preparation, service, staffing, and sometimes menu planning according to the client's requirements. These services are often used by businesses, schools, hospitals, and event venues that prefer to outsource their catering rather than operate their own kitchens. Contract caterers can offer a wide range of cuisine options and service styles, from casual buffets to formal dining. Their flexibility and expertise make them a popular choice for organizations seeking reliable and professional food service solutions.

What is a contract caterer?

A contract caterer is a professional or company hired to provide food services for events, institutions, or organizations on a contractual basis. They typically handle menu planning, food preparation, and service, often working in settings like corporate offices, schools, or hospitals. Contract caterers may require food safety certifications and experience in large-scale food service operations.

What are some common challenges faced by contract caterers and how can they be managed?

Contract caterers often face challenges such as fluctuating client demands, managing food costs, and ensuring consistent quality across multiple locations. Effective communication with clients and staff, careful menu planning, and strong supplier relationships are key strategies to address these issues. Additionally, staying adaptable to changing dietary trends and regulations helps maintain high standards and client satisfaction in a dynamic environment.

What does a caterer charge per hour?

Contract caterers typically charge between $20 and $50 per hour, depending on factors such as event size, menu complexity, location, and experience. Rates may also include additional costs for staffing, equipment, and transportation. It is common for caterers to provide customized quotes based on specific event requirements.

What is the difference between Contract Caterer vs Food Service Worker?

AspectContract CatererFood Service Worker
CredentialsMay require food safety certifications, culinary trainingTypically no formal certifications required
Work EnvironmentCommercial kitchens, catering events, institutionsRestaurants, cafeterias, hospitals, schools
Employer & Industry UsageContract companies, catering firms, hospitality industryRestaurants, cafeterias, food service establishments

Contract Caterers focus on providing food services through contracted agreements, often handling large events or institutional contracts. Food Service Workers perform daily food prep and service in various settings. While both roles involve food handling, Contract Caterers typically have more specialized training and work in larger-scale or contractual environments, whereas Food Service Workers are more involved in routine food service tasks.

What type of catering is most profitable?

For contract caterers, the most profitable catering types often include corporate events, weddings, and large-scale institutional contracts due to higher volume and repeat business. Specializing in niche markets like health care or educational institutions can also increase profitability through steady contracts and tailored services. Success depends on efficient operations, pricing strategies, and building strong client relationships.

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

To thrive as a Contract Caterer, you need strong culinary skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and experience in large-scale food preparation, typically supported by relevant catering or hospitality qualifications. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and food safety certifications such as ServSafe is commonly required. Excellent organizational abilities, communication, and customer service skills help set top performers apart in this role. These competencies ensure efficient operations, compliance with health standards, and high client satisfaction in catering environments.
What cities are hiring for Contract Caterer jobs? Cities with the most Contract Caterer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Caterer jobs? The most popular types of Caterer jobs are:
What states have the most Contract Caterer jobs? States with the most job openings for Contract Caterer jobs include:
Contract Caterer jobs near you
Catering Manager

Catering Manager

The Westgate Hotel

San Diego, CA • On-site

$34 - $39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 13 days ago

Job description

Catering Manager
Starting at $34.00-39.00/hour + commission| Full-Time
Join our hospitality team and help bring exceptional events to life. As a Catering Manager, you will play a key role in planning, coordinating, and executing catered events that deliver memorable experiences for our guests. You'll work closely with clients and hotel departments to ensure every detail is handled with care, from setup to service, while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality and professionalism.
Classification: Non-Exempt
Position Summary
The Catering Manager is responsible for generating and managing catering and social event business while delivering exceptional hospitality and service throughout the entire planning and execution process. This role serves as the primary point of contact for clients hosting social events such as weddings, galas, celebrations, and special occasions, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully planned, accurately coordinated, and seamlessly communicated to hotel operations teams.
The Catering Manager actively builds new business opportunities while nurturing strong relationships with existing clients, always with a focus on creating warm, memorable guest experiences. Responsibilities include preparing proposals and contracts, conducting engaging property tours, and partnering closely with clients to bring their vision to life.
This role works collaboratively with Sales, Conference Services, Food & Beverage, Culinary, and Operations teams to ensure flawless execution, maximize revenue, and consistently deliver exceptional guest satisfaction.
Essential Responsibilities
  • Generate catering revenue through prospecting, client relationships, and repeat business.
  • Respond to inquiries, prepare proposals, negotiate contracts, and close business opportunities.
  • Conduct hotel site tours, menu tastings, event space walk throughs and client meetings.
  • Review and interpret group contracts to clearly understand hotel commitments and event expectations
  • Ensure event space is blocked appropriately and does not conflict with other scheduled functions
  • Plan and coordinate all event details, including menus, guest count, room setups & diagrams, and special requests.
  • Create and distribute Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and ensure accurate communication to operational departments.
  • Partner with culinary, banquet, and conference services teams to ensure seamless event execution.
  • Communicate event details and operational needs with internal departments through meetings, emails, and direct communication
  • Monitor event budgets and maximize food, beverage, and ancillary revenue through strategic upselling.
  • Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, workplace safety, and company standards
  • Attend pre-convention and event planning meetings as needed.
  • Resolve client concerns promptly and professionally to ensure a high level of guest satisfaction.
  • Review event invoices and billing for accuracy
  • Maintain professionalism, strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced hospitality environment
  • Perform additional duties as assigned to support hotel and catering operations
  • Maintain accurate records and forecasts within the hotel's sales and catering system.
  • Achieve monthly and annual catering revenue goals.

Qualifications
  • Minimum of 3 years Previous hotel catering, event management, conference services, or hospitality sales experience preferred.
  • Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple events and deadlines simultaneously.
  • Proficiency in hotel sales and catering software systems.
  • Flexible schedule, including occasional evenings, weekends, and holidays as business needs require.
  • Working knowledge of Opera PMS, DelphiFDC, Social Tables, and other hospitality systems preferred
  • Knowledge of banquet operations, food and beverage service, and event planning.
  • Bilingual or multilingual communication skills are a plus

SUCCESS MERASURES:
  • Catering revenue production
  • Event profitability
  • Client satisfaction scores
  • Repeat business and client retention
  • Accuracy and timeliness of event documentation
  • Effective collaboration with hotel operations teams

This position plays a critical role in enhancing the guest experience while driving catering revenue and ensuring flawless event execution.
Benefits & Perks
  • Medical, Dental, Vision, and Voluntary Benefits
  • 401(k) Retirement Plan
  • Wellness and employee Assistance Program
  • PerkSpot Employee Discount Program
  • Hotel Stay Discounts
  • Employee Meals
  • AquaVie Fitness & Spa Membership Discount
  • Training and Career Growth Opportunities
  • Discounts at Grand America Hotels & Resorts properties
  • Convenient access to trolley station and downtown bus routes

Our Culture
We believe in "People First and Guests Always." We are committed to creating a supportive work environment where team members are valued, respected, and empowered to deliver memorable guest experiences.
Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during events and operational shifts.
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds occasionally.
  • Ability to work in indoor and outdoor event environments with varying noise levels and temperatures.

Additional Information
This is a non-exempt hourly position. Tuesday-Saturday Schedule with flexibility is required based on business demands, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time based on business needs.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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