Catering Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of hospitality, the role of a catering coordinator is always in the limelight.

Event planning is a dynamic landscape, and with each new trend, there’s an increasing demand for skilled individuals who can effectively organize, manage, and execute our culinary events.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a catering coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to unravel the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager seeking to draw a clear picture of the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the behind-the-scenes action of catering coordination,

You’ve landed on the right page.

Today, we present a customizable catering coordinator job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Catering Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

Catering Coordinators manage and oversee all aspects of catering services for a variety of events and functions.

They are responsible for ensuring customer satisfaction, coordinating staff, and overseeing food and beverage delivery.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Communicating with clients to understand their catering needs and expectations
• Planning menus in conjunction with chefs and culinary teams
• Coordinating and overseeing the delivery of food and beverages
• Managing catering staff and providing direction and feedback
• Maintaining health and safety regulations at all food service areas
• Setting up, breaking down, and cleaning up catering events
• Handling client concerns and complaints professionally and efficiently
• Managing budget and invoicing, ensuring payments and contracts are in order
• Ordering and managing catering supplies and equipment

 

Catering Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking an organized and detail-oriented Catering Coordinator to manage all aspects of our catering services.

Catering Coordinator responsibilities include supervising staff, purchasing food and beverages, coordinating with clients to determine catering requirements, and ensuring client satisfaction with the service provided.

Our ideal candidates have excellent communication skills, a knack for event planning, and experience in the food service industry.

Ultimately, the role of the Catering Coordinator is to ensure that our catering services meet and exceed client expectations while adhering to all health and safety regulations.

 

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and oversee all catering operations
• Work directly with clients to understand their catering requirements
• Plan menus in conjunction with the Executive Chef
• Purchase food and beverages, and organize delivery of supplies
• Supervise catering staff and organize staff schedules
• Ensure adherence to all health and safety regulations
• Resolve any issues or complaints promptly to maintain client satisfaction
• Maintain detailed records of all catering events
• Assist in the preparation and serving of food and beverages as needed
• Prepare invoices and collect payments from clients

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Catering Coordinator or similar role in the food service industry
• Strong understanding of food and beverage management
• Excellent organizational and planning skills
• Ability to handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations
• Ability to lift heavy objects and remain on feet for extended periods
• High school diploma or equivalent; degree in hospitality management or culinary arts is a plus

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Catering Coordinator
• Work Environment: This role typically involves working in a commercial kitchen or event venue. Some travel may be required for off-site catering events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Catering Manager or Director of Catering Services.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $55,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Catering Coordinator Do?

Catering Coordinators typically work for hotels, restaurants, or independent catering companies, but they can also work as self-employed individuals or for corporate businesses that have on-site food services.

They are responsible for organizing and coordinating all aspects of an event’s catering needs.

This includes planning menus with clients, coordinating with kitchen staff and chefs to ensure food is prepared as per the client’s preferences, and overseeing the food presentation and serving at the event.

They also manage the catering budget, ensuring that costs are kept within the client’s range, and handle invoicing and payment processing.

Catering Coordinators may also be tasked with staff scheduling, ensuring there are enough servers, kitchen staff, and bartenders to handle the event.

Besides, they work closely with vendors to order and arrange delivery of necessary supplies, such as table linens, dishes, and silverware.

They often work in a high-pressure environment, as they need to meet deadlines, cater to the client’s specific needs, and manage multiple tasks at once.

They are responsible for ensuring the catering service runs smoothly, and the client’s expectations are met or exceeded.

 

Catering Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

A competent Catering Coordinator should possess the following qualifications and skills necessary for the role:

• Strong organizational skills to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication skills to facilitate effective interaction with clients, vendors, and team members, ensuring client satisfaction and efficient team coordination.
• Experience and knowledge in food preparation and handling, including understanding of health and safety regulations.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage time efficiently to ensure all catering orders and events are handled punctually.
• Demonstrated customer service skills to cater to clients’ needs effectively, handle complaints, and maintain a high level of client satisfaction.
• Proven experience in budget management to ensure costs are kept under control while maintaining the quality of service.
• Proficiency in various computer applications including event management software and MS Office for handling bookings, schedules, inventories, and invoices.
• Interpersonal and leadership skills to lead the catering team effectively, promoting a cooperative and productive work environment.

 

Catering Coordinator Experience Requirements

Catering Coordinators typically start their careers in entry-level positions within the hospitality industry.

This could involve roles such as serving staff, kitchen assistants, or event helpers, where they gain an understanding of food preparation, service standards, and event planning.

For an entry-level Catering Coordinator role, candidates may be expected to have 1 to 2 years of experience in the catering or hospitality industry.

This experience could also be gained through internships or part-time work in catering firms, restaurants, hotels, or event planning companies.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience are usually considered for senior Catering Coordinator roles.

At this level, they may be expected to have developed skills in client relationship management, menu planning, vendor negotiation, and team supervision.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may be eligible for managerial roles, where they oversee entire catering operations, staff training and development, budget management, and strategic planning.

This level of experience often requires proven leadership skills and the ability to successfully coordinate large-scale events or catering operations.

 

Catering Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

Catering Coordinators usually require a high school diploma or equivalent.

A post-secondary degree in hospitality, culinary arts, or a related field can be beneficial, though not strictly necessary.

However, having such a degree can provide an edge in this competitive field.

Practical experience in the catering or hospitality industry is often highly valued by employers.

This can be obtained through internships, part-time jobs, or even volunteer work in related fields.

Some roles may also require knowledge of health and safety regulations, menu planning, event coordination, and customer service.

Therefore, any certifications or courses related to these areas could be beneficial for aspiring Catering Coordinators.

Finally, many Catering Coordinators need to obtain a food handler’s card or similar certification, depending on the regulations of their state or country.

This usually involves completing a brief training course and passing an exam on food safety practices.

Ongoing professional development and learning are also important in this field, as trends in food and event planning can change rapidly.

Many successful Catering Coordinators pursue additional courses or certifications throughout their career to stay current and competitive.

 

Catering Coordinator Salary Expectations

A Catering Coordinator earns an average salary of $40,790 (USD) per year.

The actual income can vary based on factors such as experience, location, and the company they are employed by.

 

Catering Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Catering Coordinator need?

Catering Coordinators should possess excellent organizational and multitasking skills, as they are often required to manage multiple events at once.

They should have strong communication and interpersonal skills to interact with clients, vendors, and staff effectively.

Being detail-oriented is essential to ensure all aspects of the event are planned and executed to the client’s satisfaction.

Some knowledge of food handling and sanitation is also beneficial.

 

Do Catering Coordinators need a degree?

While a degree is not necessary, a diploma or degree in event management, hospitality management, or a related field can be an asset.

Some employers may value experience in the catering or event industry over formal education.

It is crucial for a Catering Coordinator to have a good understanding of event planning and food service operations.

 

What should you look for in a Catering Coordinator resume?

A Catering Coordinator’s resume should highlight their experience in the catering or event planning industry.

Look for prior roles that demanded coordination, event planning, or food service.

Any certifications in food handling or safety are also a plus.

Strong references from previous employers or clients can also be a good indicator of the candidate’s reliability and competence.

 

What qualities make a good Catering Coordinator?

A good Catering Coordinator is detail-oriented, able to manage multiple tasks concurrently, and can keep calm under pressure.

They should be excellent communicators, as they will be interacting with a variety of individuals from clients to vendors.

Creative problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances are also key qualities.

An understanding and passion for food and event planning are also valuable traits in a successful Catering Coordinator.

 

Is it difficult to hire Catering Coordinators?

Finding a qualified and experienced Catering Coordinator can be a challenge, as it requires a unique blend of skills in event planning, customer service, and food handling.

However, with a clear and detailed job description, you can attract the right candidates.

Offering competitive compensation and showcasing your company’s culture can also help attract top talent.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve unraveled the true essence of a catering coordinator’s role.

And guess what?

It’s not just about preparing food.

It’s about orchestrating unforgettable events, one exquisite plate at a time.

With our definitive catering coordinator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the leap.

But why stop there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to precision-crafted job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every plate served is a part of the grand event.

Let’s create those memorable experiences. Together.

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