On-campus Catering Services Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of campus life, the role of on-campus catering services is more crucial than ever.

With the ever-evolving dietary preferences and needs, the demand for versatile, creative, and quality-driven catering services on campus continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from an on-campus catering service?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker looking to comprehend the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of on-campus catering,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable on-campus catering services job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

On-campus Catering Services Duties and Responsibilities

On-campus Catering Services are responsible for delivering high-quality food and beverages to staff, students, and guests at educational institutions.

They ensure that all operations run smoothly, meeting the dietary needs and preferences of a diverse campus population.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning, preparing and serving meals and beverages to students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors
• Ensuring all food and drink items meet health and safety standards
• Managing the inventory of food supplies and equipment, and ordering additional supplies as necessary
• Working closely with event planners to cater for special campus events, such as graduations, faculty meetings, and student gatherings
• Creating diverse menus that cater to different dietary needs, such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options
• Maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in all areas of food preparation and service
• Providing excellent customer service and addressing any complaints or inquiries
• Managing catering staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and supervising employees
• Monitoring and managing catering budget and expenses, ensuring cost efficiency

 

On-campus Catering Services Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced professional for our on-campus catering services.

The successful candidate will have a proven track record in delivering high-quality food services in a fast-paced, customer-oriented environment.

Responsibilities include menu planning, food preparation, maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards, and ensuring customer satisfaction.

As an integral member of our team, you’ll combine your culinary skills and business acumen to ensure our catering services enhance the overall campus experience.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan and develop menus in accordance with dietary requirements and customer preferences
• Prepare meals in a timely and efficient manner
• Ensure all food and beverage items are prepared and presented in accordance with the highest standards
• Maintain food safety and sanitation standards in compliance with applicable regulations
• Oversee catering operations during events, ensuring excellent service and customer satisfaction
• Coordinate with suppliers and manage inventory effectively
• Handle customer complaints and queries professionally and promptly
• Recruit, train and supervise catering staff
• Monitor and control catering expenses within the allocated budget

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience in catering management or similar role
• Strong knowledge of food, beverage, and catering trends
• Culinary degree or equivalent is preferred
• Excellent organizational and leadership skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to work flexibly and efficiently in a fast-paced environment
• Experience in managing a diverse team
• Food safety certification

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: On-campus Catering Services Manager
• Work Environment: On-campus with occasional off-site catering events. The role involves a mix of daytime, evening, and weekend work to accommodate the campus’s event schedule.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Dining Services or Campus Operations Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $70,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (on-campus)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our institution. 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 an On-campus Catering Services Do?

On-campus Catering Services typically work for educational institutions such as schools, colleges, and universities.

They can also work for other on-campus institutions like research centres or sports facilities.

They are responsible for preparing and serving food for campus events, meetings, conferences, and daily meals for students and staff.

They work closely with the management team to plan menus, taking into account nutritional guidelines, budget, and dietary restrictions of the institution’s population.

On-campus Catering Services are also responsible for maintaining hygiene and cleanliness in the kitchen and dining areas, complying with food safety regulations and standards.

They might also be required to manage inventory, order supplies, and handle tasks related to food storage and waste disposal.

Furthermore, these professionals often work with event planners on campus to cater for special events or functions, ensuring the food and beverages served align with the event’s theme or purpose.

They also often interact directly with students and staff, providing customer service and addressing any feedback or issues related to the food services.

In some cases, On-campus Catering Services may also offer training and employment opportunities for students studying culinary arts or hospitality, providing a practical learning environment.

 

On-campus Catering Services Qualifications and Skills

An efficient on-campus caterer should possess the skills and qualifications that align with your job specifications, such as:

• Strong cooking skills and knowledge of various cuisines and dishes, to cater to the diverse tastes and dietary needs of staff and students.
• Excellent planning and organizational skills to prepare and serve meals in a timely manner, even during peak service hours.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with staff, students, and other stakeholders, understand their needs and preferences, and provide excellent customer service.
• Awareness of and adherence to food safety and hygiene standards, to ensure the preparation of safe and healthy meals.
• Inventory management skills to monitor supplies, place orders as necessary, and minimize waste.
• Physical stamina to stand for long hours, move heavy kitchen equipment and supplies, and work under potentially stressful conditions.
• Teamwork skills to work efficiently with other kitchen staff, servers, and event planners.
• Problem-solving skills to handle unexpected situations like equipment breakdowns, supply shortages, or last-minute changes in menus or guest numbers.
• Flexibility to adjust menus and services to cater to special events, dietary restrictions, or other specific needs of the campus community.

 

On-campus Catering Services Experience Requirements

On-campus catering services professionals generally gain their initial experience from hospitality management courses or culinary arts programs, where they acquire knowledge and practical expertise.

Entry-level candidates may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often through internships or part-time roles at local restaurants, hotels, or catering services.

This experience enables them to understand the basics of food preparation, safety standards, and customer service.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience in the catering industry often have enhanced their skills in menu planning, event coordination, and food presentation.

They may have worked in a variety of roles, including Chef, Event Planner, or Catering Assistant, and are usually adept at handling larger events or complex catering requirements.

Those with more than 5 years of experience may have leadership experience and are typically ready to supervise a team.

They may have overseen catering for large events, managed budgets, and coordinated with various departments and vendors.

Hence, they are often ready for managerial roles within on-campus catering services.

 

On-campus Catering Services Education and Training Requirements

Individuals seeking a role in On-campus Catering Services typically require a high school diploma or equivalent for entry-level positions.

More advanced roles, such as management or specialized positions, may necessitate an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in culinary arts, food service management, nutrition, or a related field.

Training in safe food handling and preparation is essential, often culminating in a food handler’s card or certificate.

This can be obtained through specific courses offered by health departments or culinary institutions.

Candidates should also have a strong knowledge of dietary needs, nutrition, and allergen awareness, which can be gained through either formal education or on-the-job training.

Previous experience in catering, food service, or customer service can be beneficial.

In some cases, larger institutions may offer on-the-job training to equip individuals with necessary skills such as meal planning, food preparation, and customer service.

While not strictly required, certifications in areas like food safety, allergen awareness, or specialized dietary needs can enhance a candidate’s job prospects and demonstrate commitment to professional development.

Some roles may require candidates to possess a valid driver’s license or transportation management certification, especially if the job involves delivering food or managing mobile catering services.

In addition to these technical skills and qualifications, strong interpersonal skills, the ability to work in a team, and a dedication to providing high-quality service are vital for success in this role.

 

On-campus Catering Services Salary Expectations

The average wage for an on-campus catering service worker is around $12.15 (USD) per hour.

However, the actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, the size and prestige of the campus, and the specific tasks assigned within the catering service role.

 

On-campus Catering Services Job Description FAQs

What skills does an on-campus caterer need?

On-campus caterers need excellent cooking and food preparation skills.

They also require good time management skills to ensure food is prepared and served on time.

Communication and customer service skills are also important to understand and meet the requirements of the students and staff.

Basic business skills can also be advantageous for managing supplies and operating within a budget.

 

Do on-campus caterers need a degree?

On-campus caterers do not require a degree, but a diploma or certification in culinary arts or a related field is often advantageous.

This role primarily requires experience in food service, particularly in large-scale or institutional catering.

Some institutions may also require food safety certification.

 

What should you look for in an on-campus caterer’s resume?

Look for previous experience in catering, especially in large-scale or institutional settings.

Check for any culinary training or food safety certifications.

References from previous employers can provide insight into the candidate’s reliability, work ethic, and customer service skills.

 

What qualities make a good on-campus caterer?

A good on-campus caterer is committed to providing quality food and service.

They are reliable, punctual, and efficient to ensure the smooth operation of the catering service.

They should also be adaptable, able to handle the diverse dietary needs and preferences of a campus population.

 

What are the daily duties of an on-campus caterer?

An on-campus caterer’s daily duties may include planning menus, preparing and cooking meals, serving food at meal times, and ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of the kitchen.

They may also be responsible for ordering supplies, managing inventory, and adhering to food safety standards.

Customer service is a key part of the role, as they need to interact with students and staff regularly.

 

Is it difficult to hire on-campus caterers?

Hiring on-campus caterers can be challenging due to the specific demands of the role, such as working within a budget, catering to diverse dietary needs, and managing large volumes of food.

However, with a clear job description and targeted recruitment strategies, it is possible to find skilled and dedicated professionals for the role.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve given you a glimpse into the dynamic world of on-campus catering services.

And guess what?

It’s not just about serving food.

It’s about creating memorable dining experiences, one delicious dish at a time.

With our comprehensive on-campus catering services job description template and real-world examples, you’re all set to serve up success.

But why stop there?

Delve further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting enticing job listings or optimizing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every well-prepared dish contributes to the overall dining experience.

Let’s cook up something incredible. Together.

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