Catering Specialist

Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley (GESMV) is a leading nonprofit organization committed to empowering individuals with disadvantages and disabilities to improve their quality of life. As one of the largest employers in the Miami Valley region, GESMV operates over 600 retail stores and offers more than 40 community programs and services. These programs range from job readiness initiatives to assistive technology services, all designed to foster inclusion, independence, and employment opportunities for people with disabilities. The organization strongly values empowerment and full inclusion, creating a workplace culture that encourages personal and professional growth for both employees and those they serve.

The Catering Specialist position at Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley is a vital role within the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Division - Program Services. This role focuses on supporting the Catering Manager in the daily operations of the catering program, which is dedicated to providing meaningful vocational training and employment opportunities to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). The Catering Specialist assists in all phases of catering, including food preparation, staffing, event coordination, and food safety compliance. This includes working in the kitchen, on the food truck, and at catering events.

This role goes beyond typical catering duties, as it requires working closely with individuals with disabilities in a person-centered and strengths-based manner, providing hands-on job coaching and support. The Catering Specialist helps participants develop valuable job skills in food preparation, customer service, and overall event execution while ensuring dignity, respect, and personal choice are always maintained. The position is suitable for candidates who are compassionate, detail-oriented, and have experience in food service or human services settings.

In addition to supporting the catering program's operational efficiency, the Catering Specialist is responsible for maintaining compliance with food safety standards as determined by ServSafe certifications and local health departments. Responsibilities also include managing inventory, ordering food, record keeping, and assisting with client communications and delivery logistics. The position offers both part-time and full-time opportunities with varied schedules to accommodate different lifestyles.

Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley places a strong emphasis on professional development and inclusion, encouraging employees to engage in ongoing training, program planning, and organizational events. The Catering Specialist is expected to contribute to a workplace culture centered on accountability, compassion, and quality service, and to provide guidance and support to program staff, job coaches, and volunteers as needed. Supervisory responsibilities may include stepping in for the Catering Manager when necessary and assisting with onboarding and training new team members.

Education and experience requirements include a high school diploma or GED, with preferred coursework or degrees in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, Human Services, or related fields. ServSafe Food Manager Certification is required or must be obtained within 60 days of hire. Candidates should have between one to three years of experience in food service, catering, or restaurant management, with prior experience working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities being highly desirable.

The ideal candidate will have strong organizational skills, leadership capabilities, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive environment. The physical demands of the job include the ability to work in kitchen settings, stand and walk regularly, lift weights up to 50 pounds occasionally, and work in varying weather conditions due to catering events. Goodwill Easterseals Miami Valley is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. This position offers a unique opportunity for individuals passionate about community service, culinary arts, and disability inclusion to make a meaningful impact while advancing their careers within a supportive and mission-driven environment.