Catering Bartender/Server

Three Pillars Catering and Concessions is a dedicated catering and concessions service that operates within the University at Buffalo (UB) campus. It is part of Campus Dining and Shops, an established department committed to providing high-quality food services and exceptional customer experiences to the UB community. This company functions in a dynamic, fast-paced catering environment that demands professionalism, flexibility, and a strong commitment to service. The employment type is probationary full-time union position with a casual/part-time, non-exempt hourly FLSA status. The starting wage is $16.81 per hour plus gratuity, with union agreements stipulating additional details defined in the union contract appendix. The work schedule varies and includes days, evenings, weekends, and may involve mandatory overtime as required under the union contract. Employees should anticipate that work hours and days might fluctuate especially during university recess periods, where layoffs could also occur.

The role of the Catering Employee within Three Pillars Catering and Concessions is centered on delivering superior guest service through various catering and special event tasks both on and off campus. This position involves responsibilities such as setting up, servicing, and cleaning up events, which range from banquets, carving stations, bartending, buffets, and plated meal services. Employees ensure that events are smoothly executed by handling equipment transportation, setup, breakdown, and storage in accordance with event standards and client instructions. The position demands attention to detail and active involvement in maintaining a safe and clean work environment by performing necessary side work and restocking equipment and products after events. This includes providing service at high-profile occasions including presidential events and activities at the President's private residence and other campus locations.

A successful Catering Employee at Three Pillars is expected to exhibit excellent customer service skills, reliable attendance, and ability to work both independently and as part of a team. The environment can be loud and fast-moving, involving exposure to kitchen hazards such as heat, steam, sharp objects, slippery floors, and extreme temperatures of coolers and freezers. Physical stamina is essential, as the job requires the ability to stand and walk for at least eight hours per day, along with occasional activities such as climbing, stooping, kneeling, and lifting objects weighing up to 50 pounds. This role also requires manual dexterity and sensory capabilities including tasting, smelling, and visual inspection of foods.

To meet the demands of this role, candidates must possess a valid New York State driver's license with a clean and safe driving record, as they may be responsible for transporting staff and equipment. Communication skills, both oral and written in English, are vital, along with proficiency in math. The ability to follow oral and written instructions and maintain a professional demeanor is required. Passing PCI compliance testing is mandatory for this position, ensuring adherence to payment card industry standards during transactions.

This job is subject to changes and modifications in duties as needed based on organizational requirements. It encourages equal employment opportunities with respect to diverse individual backgrounds without any discrimination. Three Pillars Catering and Concessions operates in accordance with federal and state laws prohibiting discrimination and harassment in the workplace, ensuring a respectful and inclusive working environment for all employees. Overall, this career offers a rewarding opportunity to be part of a reputable catering team within a significant university setting, emphasizing service excellence, teamwork, and personal growth.