Food Service Event Coordinator

Grand Rapids, MI, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $15.00 - $23.75

Work Schedule

Flexible

Day Shifts

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Supportive and collaborative professional community

competitive compensation

Comprehensive benefits package

opportunities for professional growth

Leadership development

Innovative programs and resources

Welcoming community

Job Description

West Ottawa Public Schools is a respected and vibrant educational district located in West Michigan, committed to fostering academic excellence, innovation, inclusivity, and community engagement. Serving a diverse and dynamic student population, the district emphasizes a student-centered approach that empowers every learner to achieve their full potential. With a hallmark of equity, collaboration among educators and staff, and a continuous push for improvement, West Ottawa Public Schools establishes an environment where educational professionals can truly make an impactful difference every day. The district is dedicated to maintaining high standards in all operational areas including food service, ensuring an outstanding experience for students, families, and community members alike.

The Food Service Event Coordinator role at West Ottawa Public Schools is a key position designed to coordinate and execute district-wide events, concessions, and food service operations effectively throughout the school year. This is a full-time, 210-day salaried position, typically requiring 40 hours per week from Monday through Friday, with additional flexibility expected for evening and weekend events. Reporting directly to the Food Service Director, the coordinator is responsible for a broad range of duties including logistics planning, vendor coordination, inventory management, event staffing, and oversight of concessions and banquet-style functions.

In this role, the coordinator will serve as a pivotal link between food service operations and community engagement by ensuring that district events are executed seamlessly while upholding high standards of cleanliness, food safety, and customer service. The position demands excellent organizational and communication skills, multitasking capabilities, and a strong commitment to collaboration and customer satisfaction. The coordinator will also assist with other food service responsibilities as needed, including supporting child nutrition programs, maintaining equipment, and possibly filling in during lighter event periods to ensure continuous operational excellence.

Candidates are encouraged to bring experience in event coordination or hospitality, food service operations, or related fields, with a preference for those holding an associate or bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience. Certification such as ServSafe or the ability to obtain it is important for maintaining compliance with food safety standards. The role also requires the ability to lift up to 40 pounds and perform various physical duties associated with event setup and breakdown.

West Ottawa Public Schools offers a supportive and collaborative professional community, competitive pay, and a comprehensive benefits package that promotes both professional growth and work-life balance. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and organized individual passionate about food service and event coordination within an educational setting that values diversity, achievement, and continuous improvement.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
minimum of two years experience in event coordination, concessions, hospitality, or food service
ability to obtain ServSafe certification
strong organizational skills
excellent communication skills
ability to manage multiple tasks
proficiency with Microsoft Office and inventory/order tracking systems
ability to work evenings and weekends
ability to lift up to 40 pounds
ability to work in a diverse environment

Job Qualifications

Associate's or bachelor's degree preferred, or equivalent experience in hospitality, event coordination, food service, or related field
minimum of two years of experience in event coordination, concessions, hospitality, or food service operations preferred
experience leading teams, volunteers, or event staff preferred
ServSafe certification or ability to obtain certification
strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
ability to operate technology systems including Microsoft Office and inventory/order tracking systems
demonstrated commitment to customer service and collaboration
ability to work effectively in a culturally and economically diverse environment
ability to lift up to 40 pounds and perform physical duties associated with event setup and operations

Job Duties

Coordinate and execute district-wide events, concessions, and banquet-style operations
assist with preparation and setup for event needs, including food and beverage coordination
perform opening and closing procedures for events and facilities
ensure district standards for cleanliness, customer service, food safety, and product quality are consistently met
verify inventory before and after events and assist with inventory tracking and ordering processes
coordinate with vendors and assist with deliveries, supplies, and operational needs
support and oversee event staff and volunteers during district events
assist in maintaining equipment and recommending repairs or replacements as needed
fill in as needed in other food service roles to support department operations
assist in additional Child Nutrition and food service responsibilities as directed
maintain accurate records and communicate effectively with staff, vendors, and community partners
be available to work evenings and weekends based on event schedules
perform other duties as assigned in support of district operations