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University Catering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY - CATERING - 10485015 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY - CATERING - 10485015 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

MARQUETTE UNIVERSITY - CATERING - 10485015 Workdays/shifts : Varying shifts, days/hours (open availability preferred). More details will be provided during the interview process. Employment Type ...

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University Catering information

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$26.5K

$71.6K

$111.5K

How much do university catering jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for university catering in the United States is $71,574.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $50,000.00 and $87,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is university catering?

University catering refers to the food and beverage services provided on a college or university campus for students, staff, faculty, and guests. This includes dining hall meals, campus cafΓ©s, and special event catering such as banquets, conferences, and student gatherings. University catering teams are responsible for menu planning, food preparation, and accommodating dietary needs while ensuring food safety and quality. They often support both daily dining operations and special occasions, contributing to campus life and community events.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in university catering, and why are they important?

To thrive in University Catering, you need knowledge of food safety, menu planning, and large-scale food preparation, often supported by a food handler’s permit or relevant hospitality qualifications. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory management systems, and catering software is typically expected. Strong teamwork, customer service, and problem-solving skills help staff adapt to changing event needs and diverse clientele. These capabilities are vital to ensure efficient operations, high-quality service, and memorable campus dining experiences.

What are some common challenges faced by staff in university catering roles, and how can they be addressed?

University catering staff often face challenges such as managing large-scale events with varying dietary needs, last-minute menu changes, and coordinating with multiple campus departments. These challenges can be addressed through clear communication, flexibility, and strong organizational skills. Team members typically collaborate closely to ensure smooth service, and ongoing training is provided to stay updated on food safety standards and best practices. Embracing a proactive approach and maintaining a positive attitude can greatly enhance job satisfaction and efficiency in this dynamic environment.

What is the difference between University Catering vs Food Service Worker?

AspectUniversity CateringFood Service Worker
CredentialsMay require food safety certificationsOften requires food safety training, but less specialized
Work EnvironmentEvent-based, large-scale catering at universitiesHospital, cafeteria, or dining hall settings
Employer & IndustryUniversities, catering companiesHospitals, schools, cafeterias
Job FocusPreparing and serving food for events and functionsServing meals, maintaining food stations

University Catering involves organizing large-scale food services for events at universities, often requiring specialized catering skills. Food Service Workers typically operate in institutional settings like cafeterias or hospitals, focusing on daily meal service. While both roles involve food handling and safety certifications, University Catering emphasizes event coordination and catering logistics, whereas Food Service Workers focus on routine food service tasks.

More about University Catering jobs

What cities are hiring for University Catering jobs?

Cities with the most University Catering job openings:

What states have the most University Catering jobs?

States with the most job openings for University Catering jobs include:

Infographic showing various University Catering job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $71,574 per year, or $34.4 per hour.

CATERING EXECUTIVE CHEF- University of Houston, TX

Houston, TX β€’ On-site

Chartwells HE
Food Services and Drinking PlacesΒ β€’Β 10K+ employees

$66K - $91K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Key responsibilities

  • Oversee all culinary operations for university catering, including menu development, culinary execution, and kitchen production.

  • Manage food safety, cost controls, and supervise culinary staff to ensure high-quality catering services.

  • Coordinate with event planners and catering managers to ensure timely and quality execution of catered events.


Job description

Location: HOUSTON, TX

Salary: 

At over 300 college & universities around the country, Chartwells Higher Education is re-inventing the on-campus dining experience. We are challenging the norm and setting new standards by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. We are food-forward difference makers, bound together by a desire to feed hungry minds and prepare students for success.

We are seeking hungry, humble and smart associates who are looking to join and grow with a diverse organization. We invite you to start your career journey with us and look forward to hearing from you. 

Job Summary

Chartwells Higher Ed is seeking an energetic and growth-minded Catering Executive Chef at the University of HOUSTON.   This key leadership role is responsible for all culinary operations for a high-volume university catering department. This role oversees menu development, culinary execution, kitchen production, food safety, cost controls, and the supervision of culinary staff. The Catering Executive Chef ensures that all catered events-from intimate VIP luncheons to large-scale university functions-are executed with exceptional quality, creativity, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

  • Culinary Leadership & Menu Development
  • Design and implement innovative, seasonal, and diverse catering menus that meet client expectations and university brand standards.
  • Create custom menus for high-profile events, presidential functions, and VIP receptions.
  • Monitor food trends and incorporate new techniques and offerings to keep menus fresh and competitive.
  • Kitchen Operations & Event Execution
  • Oversee all food production for on- and off-site events, ensuring flawless quality, presentation, and timing.
  • Coordinate with catering managers and event planners to ensure culinary needs align with event logistics.
  • Maintain production schedules and event sheets, ensuring kitchen readiness for daily and large-scale functions.
  • Financial Management & Cost Control
  • Manage food cost targets, labor budgets, inventory processes, and waste reduction strategies.
  • Source vendors, maintain strong supplier relationships, and negotiate pricing to maximize profitability.
  • Assist in menu pricing based on cost analysis and market conditions.
  • Staff Management & Development
  • Recruit, train, and mentor culinary staff, including sous chefs, cooks, and temporary event staff.
  • Schedule and supervise kitchen teams to meet event demands and maintain labor efficiency.
  • Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional kitchen culture.
  • Food Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure full compliance with HACCP, local health regulations, and university standards.
  • Maintain proper sanitation, cleanliness, and organization of all kitchen facilities.
  • Conduct ongoing training for staff on food safety and handling procedures.
  • Quality Assurance & Client Relations
  • Maintain exceptionally high culinary standards for taste, presentation, and consistency.
  • Participate in client tastings and high-profile events as a representative of the culinary team.
  • Resolve issues related to food quality or service with professionalism and urgency.

Qualifications:

  • Culinary degree or equivalent professional training required.
  • Minimum 5-7 years of culinary management experience, preferably in high-volume catering, hotels, conference centers, or university dining.
  • Demonstrated success managing MILLIONS in annual catering volume.
  • Strong leadership and team-building skills with the ability to motivate diverse staff.
  • Proven expertise in menu development, event execution, and cost control.
  • Excellent organization, communication, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and event-heavy periods.
  • Physical Requirements
  • Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 40 pounds.
  • Work in hot, cold, or fast-paced kitchen environments as required.

Apply to Chartwells Higher Education today!

Chartwells Higher Education is a member of Compass Group USA

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

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. 

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace.

Associates at Chartwells Higher Ed 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/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_ChartwellsHED.pdf

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

Req ID: 1566457

Chartwells HE 

SARA C ST CLAIR 

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