Associate

About the Role

The Catering Associate position at SSA Group is responsible for delivering exceptional guest and client experiences while supporting the overall operational success of catered events.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver warm, welcoming, and memorable experiences for every guest and client, embodying 452 Hospitality.
• Oversee product quality, levels, and inventory.
• Fulfill guest needs quickly and efficiently, resolving complaints effectively.
• Ensure proper setup, execution, breakdown, and cleanup of each catered event.
• Execute back-of-house, front-of-house, and side work duties to enhance banquet event productivity.
• Express knowledge of menus, food presentation, and food service techniques with a focus on guest service.
• Perform strenuous manual labor, including equipment storage and event setup/teardown of tables and chairs.
• Support placement, movement, and storage of rental orders, buffet cards, and catering items.
• Assist Catering Supervisor(s) and Catering Operations Manager with event problem-solving and providing creative solutions.
• Maintain a friendly and approachable attitude towards clients, guests, and staff.
• Communicate clearly and openly with leaders.
• Display a sense of urgency at all times.
• Uphold a professional appearance and demeanor.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment.
• Perform other tasks as deemed necessary.
• Uphold and demonstrate a complete understanding of company policies and procedures.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to articulate to clients, General Managers, and HQ personnel.
• Excellent problem-solving/decision-making skills combined with the ability to be organized.
• Demonstrates the ability to remain flexible in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to operate all equipment necessary to perform job duties.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and to move and handle boxes (up to 35lbs), including lifting.
• Ability to work varied hours/days, including nights, weekends, and holidays, as needed.

Qualifications

• Catering and/or event industry experience is a plus.
• All educational backgrounds are eligible.

Compensation and Benefits

• Eligible for overtime pay.
• On-Demand Pay Program: Access a portion of earned wages before payday.
• Meal Plan & Employee Discounts at applicable locations.
• Participation in a 401(k) program with a 15% company match (eligibility requirements apply).
• Tuition Discount through Partnership College.
• Up to 8 hours of Bereavement Leave.
• Holiday pay of 1.5x the regular rate for hours worked on Christmas Day and Thanksgiving Day.
• Paid sick leave in accordance with applicable state and local laws.