Benefits:

Free food & snacks

Free uniforms

Opportunity for advancement

Wellness resources

Catering Lead

Department/Location: Sun Prairie

Reporting To: Catering Manager

FLSA Classification: Part-Time

Job Summary

The Catering Lead is responsible for overseeing and executing off-site catering events from start to finish. This role includes coordinating event logistics, packing and organizing equipment and food for transport, and safely driving company vehicles to and from event venues.

As the on-site leader, the Catering Lead serves as the main point of contact for clients, venues, and other vendors, ensuring clear, professional communication and a seamless event experience. They are responsible for directing and supporting the catering team, delegating tasks efficiently, and maintaining high service standards throughout the event.

The Catering Lead also plays a key role in training team members, ensuring staff are prepared, confident, and aligned with company expectations. Strong leadership, organization, and problem-solving skills are essential to successfully manage event flow and adapt to any on-site needs.

Key Responsibilities

Event Coordination

Execute all aspects of catering events on-site, ensuring smooth operations from setup to breakdown.

Review event details and timelines to confirm all requirements are met.

Serve as the main point of contact for clients, venues, and vendors during the event.

Logistics & Vehicle Management

Pack and organize food, equipment, and supplies for transport to events.

Safely drive and operate large company vehicles to and from venues.

Ensure food and equipment arrive on time, intact, and ready for service.

On-Site Leadership & Service

Lead and manage the catering team during events, delegating tasks efficiently.

Ensure high-quality food presentation, service, and adherence to company standards.

Troubleshoot and resolve any on-site challenges promptly and professionally.

Staff Training & Development

Train new employees on catering procedures, service standards, and safety protocols.

Provide guidance and training to team members during events.

Foster a positive, collaborative, and professional work environment.

Professional Communication

Maintain clear, courteous, and professional communication with clients, venues, and vendors.

Relay relevant updates and post-event feedback to management.

Skills and Requirements

Basic Requirements

Must be at least 18 years old.

Valid driver’s license required.

Weekend availability required.

Ability to lift 50–75 pounds regularly.

Able to drive large vehicles, including 15-foot box trucks and rental vehicles, and back them safely into driveways.

Skilled in logically loading and packing vehicles, including safe use of ratchet straps and lifegates.

Experience operating lifegates and safely loading/unloading heavy equipment.

Professional Skills

Strong customer service skills with a professional demeanor.

Excellent attention to detail and ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

Strong communication, planning, organizing, and problem-solving skills.

Ability to work cooperatively as part of a team, but also independently and proactively.

Accountability for actions, successes, and failures.

Flexibility to adapt to changing organizational needs.

Education and Experience

Prior hospitality experience is preferred but not required.

Must be available to work a minimum of 25 weekend shifts during peak catering season (especially Friday and Saturday evenings from May through October).

Working Conditions

Active work, spending hours standing and walking, exerting up to 25-40 lbs. of force.

Ability to regularly lift and carry 50 lbs.

Ability to climb in and out of large vehicles.

Ability to see at a distance (20 feet), at close range (12 inches), distinguish between shapes, and utilize peripheral vision.

Ability to hear and respond to verbal communications.

Capability to read, write, and perform basic addition/subtraction calculations.

Physical ability to bend, handle, carry, lift, reach, wipe, climb, and stoop.

Walk and stand for up to eight (8) hours regularly and occasionally up to 12 hours.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Job Details

Job Type: Part-time, Seasonal

Hours per week: 15-35

Typical Start Time: 11 AM

Typical End Time: 11 PM

Pay: $28.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits

Employee discount

Flexible schedule

This job description outlines general responsibilities and expectations. Additional duties may be assigned as needed.