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Catering Bartender/Server

Buffalo, NY, USA|Travel, Onsite

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
Part-time
Hourly
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Compensation

Hourly
Exact $16.81
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Day Shifts
Weekend Shifts
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Paid Time Off
Retirement plan options
Employee Discounts
flexible scheduling
Union benefits

Job Description

Three Pillars Catering and Concessions operates under the umbrella of Campus Dining and Shops at a prominent university setting, delivering high-quality catering services for a wide range of events on and off campus. This well-established catering company specializes in providing exceptional food service experiences with a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction and operational excellence. The company functions as a key supplier for special occasions including banquets, buffets, plated events, bartending, and receptions, maintaining high standards for service, food quality, and event execution. Within the dynamic food service industry, Three Pillars Catering is known for its commitment to professionalism, teamwork, and flexibility in scheduling to meet the diverse needs of university clients and external organizations alike.

The Catering Employee position is integral to the successful delivery of catering services, particularly during special events hosted on or off the university campus. This role is classified as a probationary full-time union position with a casual or part-time hourly wage starting at $16.81 per hour plus gratuity, structured under the terms of the union contract. Working hours vary weekly and include mandatory availability on days, evenings, and weekends to accommodate the fluctuating event schedule. The position involves activities ranging from setting up event spaces, serving food and beverages, to breakdown and cleanup, ensuring that every guest receives exemplary service in compliance with established standards.

This job requires someone who thrives in a fast-paced and physically demanding work environment. The employee often works in kitchens with exposure to heat, steam, fire, noise, and extreme temperatures in coolers and freezers. The role demands significant physical activity such as standing, walking, lifting equipment and supplies, and performing manual tasks involving food preparation and service. Additionally, the job stipulates compliance with safety protocols, including the handling of hot surfaces, sharp objects, and slippery conditions.

Key responsibilities include facilitating banquet services, bartending, food running during events, replenishing buffet items, and executing plated service accurately. Moreover, the employee is expected to manage equipment transportation, setup, and breakdown, supporting a clean and safe work environment, and restocking items post-events. With events taking place in diverse campus locations such as the President’s Private Residence, the Catering Employee must exude professionalism at all times and collaborate effectively with management, team members, and customers.

Successful candidates will demonstrate excellent customer service skills, strong attention to detail, and the ability to make independent decisions while working both autonomously and as part of a team. They must possess strong communication proficiency in English, solid math skills for accurate measurement and transactions, and the ability to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor. Reliable transportation is essential due to frequent off-site event locations requiring driving a car or people van for staff and material transport. Additionally, passing PCI compliance testing is required to ensure adherence to payment card industry standards.

This position recognizes that physical stamina is critical; employees spend a minimum of eight hours standing or walking and occasionally perform tasks involving climbing, balancing, stooping, or bending. Manual dexterity and sensory capabilities such as taste, smell, and visual inspection are indispensable for successful food service delivery. The role also offers opportunities to work special events beyond typical catering assignments, requiring flexibility and commitment to fulfilling the service mission of Three Pillars Catering and Concessions.

Job Requirements

  • Valid NYS driver’s license with clean, safe driving record
  • Ability to drive car or people van for transporting staff and equipment
  • Open availability including days, evenings, and weekends
  • Ability to pass PCI compliance testing
  • Reliable transportation
  • Ability to work under loud, busy, and physically demanding environments
  • Willingness to submit to DOT physical and drug screening if required

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Experience in catering or food service preferred
  • Excellent customer service and communication skills
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team
  • Proficiency in English reading, writing, and math skills
  • Valid NYS driver’s license with a clean, safe driving record
  • Ability to pass PCI compliance testing
  • Professional appearance and good hygiene
  • Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally

Job Duties

  • Set up banquet and catering events
  • Provide service at carving stations, bartending, and running food during events
  • Replenish buffet items and maintain product supplies according to event standards
  • Transport, set up, break down, and return catering equipment
  • Perform cleaning, organizing, and restocking of equipment after events
  • Assist in maintaining a safe and clean work environment
  • Service at Presidential events and other campus locations

Job Criteria

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)


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