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If you’ve Googled “Catering Manager job description,” you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over — a block of bullet points, generic phrases, and a list of duties that could apply to any restaurant, hotel, or events company on the planet.
The problem? Posts like that don’t help you hire the kind of catering manager who can keep clients happy, run events without a hitch, and motivate your team when the heat is on (literally).
A job post is more than a formality — it’s a recruiting tool. The right one will make great candidates stop scrolling and think, “This is the place for me.” The wrong one will blend into the noise and attract people who are just looking for a paycheck.
Before we get into the templates, I recommend checking out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ — because generic posts fail to convert quality applicants for one reason: they don’t connect with the right people. And in catering, connection is everything.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What a Catering Manager Actually Does - Their Roles
A catering manager is the person who makes sure your events run like clockwork — from the first client inquiry to the last plate cleared. They coordinate menus with chefs, plan staffing for events, manage budgets, and ensure every guest leaves happy.
But here’s the thing: this role isn’t just about food and logistics. A great catering manager is also a problem-solver, a people leader, and a brand ambassador. They juggle client expectations, vendor relationships, and on-the-fly changes (because no event ever goes exactly as planned).
In short — they’re the bridge between your kitchen, your clients, and your front-of-house team. Reliability, communication, and emotional intelligence matter just as much as knowing how to cost out a buffet or schedule a service crew.
Two Catering Manager Job Description Templates
Template 1: Job Description for Experienced Catering Manager
📌 Job Title: Catering Manager — Harvest Table Catering & Events (Seattle, WA)
📍 Location: Seattle, WA (mostly on-site; occasional remote planning days)
💼 Employment Type: Full-Time
🗓️ Schedule: Tue–Sat; evenings/weekends as events require
💰 Salary Range: $68,000–$82,000 base + quarterly performance bonus + tip share
🎥 A quick word from our hiring manager (2-min Loom): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
Harvest Table Catering & Events is a Seattle-based, farm-to-table catering company known for thoughtful menus and seamless execution. We partner with Pacific Northwest producers, design seasonal menus, and deliver everything from intimate weddings to 500-guest corporate galas. Our reputation is built on calm leadership, precise logistics, and hospitality that feels personal.
What You’ll Do
- Own the event lifecycle: inquiry → proposal → tasting → staffing → on-site execution → post-event wrap.
- Collaborate with our culinary team to design profitable, seasonal menus tailored to client goals and budgets.
- Build staffing plans, lead pre-shift briefings, and coach captains and servers.
- Manage vendor relationships (rentals, florals, AV) and negotiate rates/hold times.
- Maintain budgets, food/labor cost targets, and invoice accuracy.
- Uphold food safety, presentation standards, and on-time service under pressure.
- Troubleshoot in real time (weather, late deliveries, last-minute headcount changes) while keeping clients at ease.
What You’ll Bring
- 3+ years in catering/events management or banquet operations.
- Proven team leadership and client-facing communication skills.
- Strength in forecasting, scheduling, and budget control.
- Working knowledge of food safety regs (ServSafe Manager or equivalent).
- Comfortable lifting up to 40 lbs and working evenings/weekends.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) with employer match
- 15 days PTO + 7 paid holidays + comp time for multi-event weekends
- Commuter stipend + phone allowance
- Free family meal on event days + tasting credits
- Annual training budget (certifications, conferences)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Impact: Your planning and leadership directly shape unforgettable client experiences.
- Autonomy: You’ll own events end-to-end and be trusted to make on-the-spot decisions.
- Growth: Clear path to Senior Catering Manager/Operations Lead as we scale.
- Team: Work with chefs and captains who care about details as much as you do.
Our Hiring Process
We review every application and reply within 14 days. Shortlisted candidates complete a brief WorkScreen evaluation, followed by a video interview and reference checks. Finalists are invited to a paid on-site shadow during a live event.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [https://app.workscreen.io/apply/catering_manager_harvest_table] (skills-based evaluation; ~15–20 minutes).
Template 2: Job Description For Entry-Level Catering Manager (Willing to Train)
📌 Job Title: Catering Manager-in-Training — Harvest Table Catering & Events (Seattle, WA)
📍 Location: Seattle, WA (on-site)
💼 Employment Type: Full-Time
🗓️ Schedule: Variable; evenings/weekends common (event-based)
💰 Pay Range: $24–$27/hour (OT eligible) + tip share → path to $55k–$65k salaried within 6–12 months
🎥 Meet your future team (1-min Loom): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
Harvest Table Catering & Events turns milestone moments into memorable experiences with seasonal, locally sourced menus. We’re known for friendly service, calm under pressure, and tight execution. We’ll teach you the systems behind great events so you can grow into a full Catering Manager role.
What You’ll Do
- Support senior managers with proposals, tastings, BEOs, and run-of-show docs.
- Learn staffing/scheduling, rental orders, and vendor coordination.
- Assist with on-site setup, service timing, guest flow, and breakdown.
- Communicate with clients and captains; log post-event notes and costs.
- Take the lead on smaller events as you progress.
What You’ll Bring
- Hospitality mindset, clear communication, and reliability.
- Comfort with fast, physical, detail-heavy work; lift up to 40 lbs.
- Weekend/evening availability; valid driver’s license preferred.
- Catering/banquet experience is a plus, but not required — we’ll train.
Perks & Benefits
- Medical, dental, and vision coverage after 60 days
- 401(k) with employer match
- 10 days PTO + 6 paid holidays + OT for long event days
- Paid ServSafe certification + leadership workshops
- Uniform stipend + commuter support
- Free family meal on event days
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Break into events: Learn the craft with real responsibility from day one.
- Step-by-step growth: Clear milestones to become a full Catering Manager in 6–12 months.
- Hands-on learning: You’ll see how menus, budgets, staffing, and service come together.
- Supportive team: Coaches who want you to succeed and celebrate your wins.
Our Hiring Process
Every application is reviewed. Selected candidates complete a short WorkScreen evaluation, then a video interview. Finalists do a paid 4–6 hour trial shift during a live event (we work around your schedule).
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [https://app.workscreen.io/apply/catering_manager_in_training_harvest_table]
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Why These Catering Manager Job Posts Work
Both of these job descriptions are built to connect with the right candidates, not just anyone looking for a paycheck. Here’s why they stand out compared to the cookie-cutter listings you’ll find online.
1. Clear, Specific Titles
Instead of a vague “Catering Manager” headline, each post includes company name, location, and a value hook (“Deliver Unforgettable Events Every Time” / “Learn, Lead & Grow”). This immediately signals relevance to candidates and helps attract those aligned with your market, scale, and service style.
2. Video Element for a Human Touch
Both posts invite the candidate to meet the hiring manager or team via Loom/YouTube before reading the “Who We Are” section. This is a quick way to build trust, make the brand feel personal, and differentiate your listing from faceless corporate posts.
3. Warm, Contextual Introduction
The “Who We Are” section tells a story about Harvest Table Catering & Events, not a generic placeholder. It highlights the company’s farm-to-table ethos, the variety of events they handle, and their reputation for calm, precise execution — giving candidates an emotional reason to connect.
4. Detailed Responsibilities That Show Impact
Rather than listing generic duties (“manage events”), the descriptions show how each responsibility matters — e.g., “troubleshoot in real time while keeping clients at ease” or “build staffing plans and lead pre-shift briefings.” This helps candidates picture themselves in the role and see the impact they’ll have.
5. Transparent Pay & Benefits
Salary/hourly rates, bonus/tip structures, and benefits are listed upfront. Transparency builds trust and attracts candidates who are genuinely aligned with your budget, reducing wasted applications.
6. Perks & Benefits + “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Separated
By separating the tangible benefits (health coverage, PTO, training) from the motivational fit factors (impact, autonomy, growth), the post speaks to both logical and emotional motivators — a key driver for top talent.
7. Respectful, Clear Hiring Process
Candidates know exactly what will happen after they apply: timeline, evaluation method, and whether there’s a trial shift. This clarity reduces anxiety and increases completion rates. Bonus points for paid trial/event shadows — it shows you value candidates’ time.
8. Inclusion of Entry-Level Pathway
The second template opens the door to candidates with no formal catering management experience but the right mindset. This widens the talent pool and positions the company as one that invests in growth.
9. Use of WorkScreen for Skill-Based Screening
By integrating WorkScreen into the application process, the posts show a commitment to evaluating real ability over just résumés — filtering out low-effort applicants and giving high-potential candidates a fair shot.
Bad Catering Manager Job Post Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Catering Manager
Company: Confidential
Location: Seattle, WA
Employment Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are looking for a catering manager to oversee all catering operations. The catering manager will manage staff, plan menus, and ensure events run smoothly.
Responsibilities
- Manage catering operations.
- Plan menus.
- Order supplies.
- Ensure customer satisfaction.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in hospitality or related field.
- 3–5 years of experience in catering.
- Ability to work flexible hours.
Salary: Negotiable
How to Apply
Send your CV and cover letter to hr@confidential.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Why This Job Post Fails
- Generic, Lifeless Title
Just “Catering Manager” with no location hook, company name, or reason to care — it blends into every other listing. - No Personality or Culture
There’s no insight into who the company is, what they value, or what kind of events they do. Candidates can’t tell if it’s a good fit. - Vague Responsibilities
“Manage catering operations” could mean anything from buffet service at a conference to plated dinners at weddings — nothing paints a picture of the actual role. - Lack of Transparency
“Negotiable” salary with no range signals secrecy and can deter top candidates. - Outdated Hiring Language
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels cold and dismissive — the opposite of a respectful process. - No Perks or Benefits
Fails to list even basic benefits, making it less attractive than competing posts. - Zero Differentiation
Nothing in the post stands out or tells a candidate why they should choose this company over others.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Catering Manager Job Post Stand Out
If you want to attract top-tier catering managers — the ones who can keep cool under pressure, inspire a team, and delight clients — you need to go beyond the basics. Here are a few pro-level touches that can elevate your post above the competition.
1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
Reassure applicants that your process is safe and legitimate.
Example:
We take applicant privacy seriously. We will never request payment, banking details, or personal financial information at any stage of our hiring process.
This builds immediate trust, especially in hospitality where scams are unfortunately common.
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Catering often requires long, irregular hours — so highlighting rest time is a plus.
Example:
Enjoy 15 days of PTO, 7 paid holidays, and flex days after major multi-day events so you can recharge.
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Show that you invest in your team’s professional development.
Example:
We provide an annual training budget for certifications, leadership workshops, and culinary networking events.
4. Add a Loom or Video from the Owner or Head Chef
A short 1–2 minute clip sharing your company’s mission and event style instantly humanizes your brand. Candidates will feel like they’ve already “met” you.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Showcase Unique Perks
If you offer anything beyond the standard benefits, make it shine. For catering managers, this could include:
- Food & beverage credits for family/friends
- Access to invite-only tasting events
- Opportunities to attend industry expos or travel for destination events
6. Include a Snapshot of Past Events
Link to a small gallery or Instagram highlight of your recent weddings, galas, or corporate dinners. This not only shows your aesthetic but helps potential hires picture themselves in action.
7. Make the Call-to-Action Energetic
Instead of “Send your CV,” try:
Ready to lead events guests will rave about? Apply now via our WorkScreen link — we’ll get back to you within two weeks.
Why You Shouldn’t Let AI Write Your Catering Manager Job Post From Scratch
In the rush to post jobs quickly, many employers type a short prompt into an AI tool — “Write me a catering manager job description” — and paste whatever comes out. The problem? You’ll get the same generic, lifeless listing that dozens of other companies will also post.
The Risks of Blind AI Use
- Generic wording — no unique tone or brand personality.
- Attracting the wrong candidates — vague posts appeal to people looking for any job, not those who can thrive in catering’s high-pressure, client-facing environment.
- Missed chance to sell your culture — your values, team style, and event approach get lost.
- Weaker first impression — your job post is often the first “taste” a candidate gets of your company. A bland one doesn’t inspire them to apply.
The Right Way to Use AI for This Role
AI works best when you feed it specifics only you can provide — then use it to refine, not replace, your voice.
Instead of:
Write me a job description for a catering manager.
Try this:
Help me write a job post for Harvest Table Catering & Events in Seattle. We’re hiring an experienced Catering Manager to lead events from inquiry to execution, manage budgets, and coach service teams. Our culture is calm, detail-driven, and collaborative. We want candidates who thrive under pressure, care about presentation, and value local sourcing. We offer $68k–$82k salary + bonuses, medical/dental/vision, PTO, 401(k) match, and an annual training budget. Here’s our hiring process: WorkScreen skills evaluation → video interview → paid trial shift. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]. Please make the tone warm, human, and inviting, not corporate or generic.
Pro Tip:
You can also paste in a strong example (like the “good job posts” from this guide) and tell AI:
“Make me something like this, but for a catering manager role at my company, with the following changes…”
That way, you’re starting with proven structure and injecting your own details, rather than letting AI improvise from nothing.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Copy-Paste Catering Manager Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Style
Job Title: Catering Manager – Deliver Unforgettable Events at [Company Name]
💼 Location: [Remote/On-site/Hybrid] (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
💰 Salary Range: [$X,000 – $Y,000]/year + [bonus/tips if applicable]
🎥 90-second intro from the Hiring Manager: [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] turns gatherings into memorable experiences with seasonal menus, thoughtful service, and calm, precise execution. We handle everything from [weddings/corporate galas/private events], and we’re known for [local sourcing/creative plating/flawless timing—edit to fit].
What You’ll Do
- Lead events from inquiry to post-event wrap (proposals, tastings, BEOs, staffing, run-of-show).
- Partner with chefs to build profitable, guest-focused menus.
- Manage budgets, vendor contracts, rental orders, and schedules.
- Maintain service standards and food safety compliance.
- Troubleshoot in real time while keeping clients at ease.
What You’ll Bring
- [3+ years] in catering/events or banquet operations.
- Team leadership, clear communication, and client rapport.
- Forecasting, scheduling, and cost control fundamentals.
- [ServSafe Manager or equivalent] (or willingness to obtain).
- [Evenings/weekends] availability; ability to lift [up to 40 lbs].
Perks & Benefits
- [Medical/Dental/Vision]
- [401(k) with match]
- **[X] days PTO + [Y] paid holidays + [flex/comp time policy]
- [Professional development stipend/certifications]
- [Commuter/phone stipend, meal credits on event days, etc.]
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Impact: Your planning and leadership shape guest experiences.
- Autonomy: Own events end-to-end and make on-site calls.
- Growth: Path to [Senior Catering Manager/Operations Lead].
- Team: Work with people who care about details as much as you do.
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen application link]. We review every application and reply within [X] days. Process: [WorkScreen skills eval → interview → (paid) trial/shadow].
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
Job Title: Catering Manager — Entry-Level (Willing to Train) at [Company Name]
💼 Location: [Remote/On-site/Hybrid] (HQ: [City, State])
🕒 Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
💰 Salary Range: [$X/hour or $X,000 – $Y,000]/year + [OT/bonus/tips if applicable]
Job Brief
[Company Name] is hiring a Catering Manager-in-Training to support event planning and execution while learning menu planning, staffing, budgeting, and client communication. This is a hands-on role with a clear path to a full Catering Manager position.
Responsibilities
- Assist with proposals, tastings, BEOs, timelines, and rental orders.
- Support staffing/scheduling and vendor coordination.
- Help run on-site setup, service timing, guest flow, and breakdown.
- Communicate with clients and captains; capture post-event notes/costs.
- Take lead on smaller events as you progress.
Requirements
- Hospitality mindset, reliability, and clear communication.
- Comfort with fast, physical, detail-heavy work; lift [up to 40 lbs].
- [Evening/weekend] availability; [driver’s license preferred].
- Prior catering experience is a plus, not required — we’ll train.
Perks & Benefits
- [Medical/Dental/Vision after X days]
- [401(k) with match]
- **[X] days PTO + [Y] paid holidays + [OT eligibility]
- [Paid ServSafe/certifications, leadership workshops]
- [Uniform stipend/commuter support/meal credits]
How to Apply
Apply via WorkScreen: [Insert WorkScreen application link]. Steps: [WorkScreen skills eval → interview → (paid) trial shift]. We keep you updated at each stage.
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Phase of Hiring
Once you’ve crafted a Catering Manager job post that actually connects with the right people, the next challenge is sorting through applications quickly — without missing top talent or wasting time on low-effort applicants. That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
WorkScreen helps you:
1. Quickly Identify Your Best Candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
2. Assess Real-World Skills in One Click
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
3. Eliminate Low-Effort Applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
4. Save Time & Reduce Bad Hires
Spend less time reviewing résumés and more time connecting with qualified people who are likely to succeed in the role.
📥 Start Today:
Post your Catering Manager job, share your unique WorkScreen link across job boards and social media, and let the platform handle the evaluation process for you. By the time you’re reviewing candidates, you’ll be looking at a short list of people who’ve already proven they can do the job.
start hiring smarter — whether for your catering team or any other role.
FAQ
Look for a blend of operational expertise and people skills. Key abilities include:
- Leadership & team management — guiding service staff, chefs, and coordinators.
- Client relationship building — understanding client needs and managing expectations.
- Budgeting & cost control — keeping events profitable without compromising quality.
- Problem-solving under pressure — staying calm and resourceful when things don’t go as planned.
- Knowledge of food safety & compliance — ensuring every event meets legal and hygiene standards.
In the U.S., Catering Managers typically earn between $50,000 and $75,000 per year, with higher salaries in major metro areas or luxury/event-specialized venues. Some roles also include bonuses, tip share, or commissions tied to event profitability.
A Catering Manager focuses on food and beverage operations — menu design, kitchen coordination, and service execution — while an Event Planner manages the overall event, including decor, entertainment, and logistics. In smaller operations, the roles can overlap.
Success can be measured by:
- Client satisfaction and repeat bookings
- Meeting profit margins for events
- Smooth execution with minimal errors or delays
- Positive staff feedback and low turnover on their team
Not necessarily. While some have a culinary background, many come from hospitality, event management, or business administration. What matters most is a strong understanding of food service operations, vendor coordination, and client service.
