This post provides detailed information on the catering server job description, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly perform, as well as templates employers can use.
It also highlights the major requirements you may be expected to fulfill to be hired for the catering server role by most employers.
What Does a Catering Server Do?
Catering can be referred to as the business of providing food service at a site, such as public house, hotel, or other locations.
Catering servers may work for banquet or event venue or catering companies where they are responsible for ensuring that the right food is served to guests.
They perform a range of duties before, during, and after an event to ensure that foods are effectively served to guests to their satisfaction.
The catering server job description entails performing multiple tasks and providing exemplary guest service through all forms of banquet services and setting up of catering events.
If you have quick thinking, and are very smart and fast on your feet and can perform several tasks at a time, this may be your ideal job.
The event caterer servers are not responsible for cooking the food but often help in setting up the dining area.
Therefore, this kind of service is typically provided at conventions, weddings, and banquets.
Any type of event where all attendees are provided with drinks and food, or sometimes only hors d’oeuvres is often referred to as a catered event.
A catering specialist or company is expected to know how to cook food and to make it very attractive.
As such, some catering companies have moved towards full-service business model popularly associated with event planners.
They not only take charge of food preparation but also decorations, such as lighting and table settings.
Catering is mostly sold on an individual basis; so this means that there is a fixed price for each additional person that might be included.
However, things like fire permits and lighting are not scaled with the guest count; therefore individual pricing is not always recommended.
It is important to keep the cost of the supplies and food below a price margin so as to make a profit on the catering.
Like many others in the food service industry, caterers and catering servers work long hours.
It is very common for them to work 7 days a week during holidays or during a whole holiday event seasons.
Catering servers can develop their careers by belonging to certain professional associations, such as the National Association for Catering and Events (NACE), which provide the necessary tools, resources and connections for their members to grow and thrive in their careers.
Catering Server Job Description Example/Sample/Template
Presented below is an example of the kind of job description usually given to newly employed individuals for the catering server job. It shows typical duties, tasks, and responsibilities of the position.
- Follow direction from the supervisor or manager; serve food and drinks to guests according to the style requested
- Maintain professional appearance and friendly attitude towards guests, clients, and colleagues
- Ensure orders are correct by communicating with expos and kitchen staff
- Share information on menu items and possible dietary/allergic reactions with guests
- Take and deliver guest orders and resolve complaints or dissatisfaction quickly and effectively
- Provide exemplary guest service through all forms of banquet service, carving stations, bartending, running food during events, buffets, plated, replenishing product and supplies in compliance with event standards
- Ensure that events are properly equipped and executed by transporting, pulling, setting up and breaking down, as well as returning equipment to designated storages in compliance with event standards and instructions
- Provide creative solutions to supervisor and operations manager in resolving problems during catering events
- Perform front of the house, back of the house, and side work duties, including helping to provide a safe and clean work environment
- Clean, organize and restock equipment/product returning from catering events
- Assist in moving, storing, and placing catering items, rental orders, and buffet cards appropriately
- Understand safety responsibilities as well as environmental laws by following established procedures, policies, training and involvement activities
- Perform other duties that could be assigned.
Requirements – Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for the Post of Catering Server
Here are important attributes individuals aspiring to the position of catering server are mainly required to possess by hiring managers:
- Punctuality and consistent attendance.
- Have not less than a High school diploma.
- Have not less than two to three years of banquet service or external catering experience or its equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Must be at least eighteen years of age to serve alcoholic drinks.
- Must be able to read and understand simple instructions, memos and short correspondence.
- Must be able to respond to simple complaints or inquiries from customers, members of the business community, and/or regulatory agencies.
- Must be able to do simple arithmetic in all units of measure, using common fractions, whole numbers, and decimals. In fact, must be able to do simple mathematical calculation.
- Must be able to make independence decisions.
Catering Server Job Description Templates
Here are catering server job description templates employers can simply edit and use in their job postings to attract the best talents to their companies:
TEMPLATE 1.
Position Title: Catering Server
Reports To: Catering Manager / Event Manager / Banquet Captain
Location: [Your Company or Event Venue Location]
Employment Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, or On-Call
Company Overview
[Your Company Name] is a trusted provider of exceptional catering and event services for weddings, corporate gatherings, private parties, galas, and large-scale events. We are committed to delivering excellent food service, professional presentation, and memorable guest experiences. Our catering team values teamwork, hospitality, and attention to detail.
Position Overview
We are seeking a friendly, reliable, and service-oriented Catering Server to support event operations and ensure guests enjoy a high-quality dining experience. The Catering Server is responsible for event setup, serving food and beverages, maintaining clean service areas, and assisting with event breakdown.
The ideal candidate is energetic, customer-focused, and able to work efficiently in fast-paced event environments.
Key Responsibilities
Event Setup
- Assist in setting up event spaces, including tables, chairs, linens, décor, and buffet or service stations.
- Set up food, beverage, and bar areas according to event requirements.
- Ensure all service items, utensils, and supplies are ready before guest arrival.
Food & Beverage Service
- Serve plated meals, pass hors d’oeuvres, refill beverages, and assist with buffet service.
- Follow proper serving etiquette and maintain high standards of cleanliness and professionalism.
- Monitor food and beverage levels and coordinate replenishment as needed.
Guest Assistance
- Greet guests warmly and provide excellent customer service throughout the event.
- Respond promptly to guest needs, questions, and special requests.
- Communicate dietary needs or concerns to kitchen staff when necessary.
Event Support & Coordination
- Follow instructions from the Catering Manager or Banquet Captain regarding service timing, flow, and tasks.
- Coordinate with kitchen and event staff to ensure seamless service.
- Maintain organized service areas and assist teammates when required.
Clean-Up & Breakdown
- Clear tables, remove dishes, and transport items to dishwashing or cleaning areas.
- Clean and break down buffet stations, tables, and equipment after events.
- Help restore the venue to its original or assigned post-event condition.
Compliance & Safety
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health guidelines.
- Adhere to responsible alcohol service practices (if applicable).
- Ensure compliance with company policies and event protocols.
Skills & Qualifications
- Strong customer service and communication skills.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
- Professional demeanor and positive attitude.
- Ability to carry trays, lift 25–40 lbs., and stand/walk for extended periods.
- Previous catering, banquet, food service, or restaurant experience preferred but not required.
- Ability to follow instructions and work well in a team.
Education & Experience Requirements
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- On-the-job training provided for entry-level applicants.
- Food handler or alcohol service certification may be required based on event/location.
Eligibility to Work in the United States
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without needing employer-sponsored work authorization now or in the future.
Work Environment
- Events may take place indoors or outdoors and require extended periods of standing, lifting, and walking.
- Shifts may include evenings, weekends, and holidays depending on event schedules.
- Work environments may be fast-paced, loud, and involve large groups of guests.
Equal Opportunity Statement
[Your Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We welcome applicants regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other protected category.
Additional Information
- Responsibilities may vary depending on event type and company needs.
- Reasonable accommodations may be available for qualified individuals with disabilities.
- Pre-employment background checks may be required.
How to Apply
Submit your resume or application to [Insert Application Email or Job Link].
TEMPLATE 2.
Location: [City, State]
Employment Type: Full-Time, Part-Time, or On-Call
About Us
[Your Company Name] provides high-quality catering services for weddings, corporate events, parties, and special occasions. We are seeking energetic Catering Servers to help deliver outstanding guest experiences.
Job Summary
The Catering Server supports event setup, food and beverage service, guest assistance, and event cleanup. This role ensures smooth event operations and professional service in a fast-paced setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Set up tables, linens, décor, and buffet/service stations
- Serve food and beverages, pass hors d’oeuvres, refill drinks
- Provide attentive, friendly service throughout events
- Maintain clean and organized service areas
- Clear tables, remove dishes, and assist with post-event breakdown
- Follow food safety, sanitation, and alcohol service guidelines
Qualifications
- Strong customer service and communication skills
- Ability to lift 25–40 lbs. and stand/walk for long periods
- Team-oriented and able to work in a fast-paced environment
- Prior catering, banquet, or restaurant experience preferred but not required
Eligibility to Work in the U.S.
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
How to Apply
Apply by sending your resume to [Insert Email or Application Link].
Conclusion
This post has provided exhaustive information on the duties, tasks, and responsibilities that commonly make up the catering server job description.
Individuals interested in the catering server career will find it helpful in learning about what they do.
Employers needing to make a detailed and effective job description for the catering server role will also find this article useful.
They can apply any of the catering server job description templates provided on this page in making one for their companies.
