Catering & Events Intern

Job Description

About Chartwells Higher Education

Chartwells Higher Education is part of Compass Group, a global leader in foodservice. They are committed to providing a positive work environment where employees are valued and empowered to make a difference. They offer competitive wages, benefits, and perks like Instapay through the One @Work app.

Job Description: Catering & Events Intern

Location: 18111 Nordhoff Street Los Angeles, CA
Note: Online applications accepted only.
Schedule: To be determined based on class schedule and business needs.
Requirement: Customer service experience is preferred.
Pay Range: $18.00 per hour to $20.00 per hour.
Application Deadline: Applications are accepted ongoing until all openings are filled.

General Description:

This internship offers a chance to learn the intricacies of catering from both a sales and operations perspective. You will work closely with the Senior Catering Manager at California State University – Northridge, gaining experience in coordinating event details (menu selections, tastings, linen rental, setup, floral design), event setup and execution, and providing excellent customer service to clients and guests.

Qualifications:

• Excellent communication skills, written and verbal
• Customer service experience/knowledge
• Must be an undergraduate student
• Availability to work evenings and weekends, if needed
• Enjoy building relationships
• Professional attitude and appearance
• Ability to operate multiple computer programs and office equipment
• Experience working with MAC’s and PC’s
• Interest in one or more of the following: Sustainability, Farm to Fork, Quality Assurance, Current Catering Trends, Menu Development, Contract Food Service Management

Job Responsibilities (May include any or all):

• Aid in planning and organizing events
• Assist with set up and break down of events, when needed
• Complete safety training for proper lifting techniques
• Assist the culinary team in developing custom menus for events
• Work closely with vendor partners (I.E: rentals, florists, bakeries, etc.) in arranging services
• Assist in staff scheduling
• Marketing catering services both on and off campus
• Assist with inventory management
• Aid in staff training on catering standards
• Assist in keeping staff motivated to provide the highest standard of service

Learning Objectives:

• Demonstrate awareness, understanding and skills necessary to work in a diverse environment.
• Experience opportunities to learn, observe, and practice a variety of experiences in the world of hospitality.
• Sales: Spend time cultivating outside sales with director of catering, looking for new opportunities and venues.
• Process: Understanding the process of event planning from the initial contact with the client and the steps that are taken to execute the event.
• Booking: Providing prices and fees; tailoring the event to any special needs or wants.
• Communication: Communicating the expectations and meeting the goals, keeping on the same page.
• Negotiation: This will enable the intern to undergo the contract portion of the event, fine tuning the details of the event.
• Contracts: Discussing the terms of the contract, the services being provided, solidifying dates and deadlines, necessary staffing, policies of the event/cancelations, parking, etc.
• Closing: Examining the financials, collecting payment, menu costing etc…
• Follow Up: This will enable the planner to understand what the strengths were from the event and anything necessary for improvement; Keeps an ongoing relationship with the client(s).