What does a Catering Assistant do?

A catering assistant has many roles and responsibilities in the food and hospitality industry.

From birthday parties to wedding events, a catering assistant is responsible for creating an upbeat atmosphere and ensuring impeccable service. 

If you’re interested in entering the food and hospitality sector, read on to discover what the role entails. For those already in the industry, we sell a range of high-quality catering uniforms designed to enhance your work experience. 

Catering Assistant Role Overview

A catering assistant supports a chef in both large-scale and intimate events. This involves the preparation and presentation of the food as well as ensuring the venue is all set up for the event. 

Working as a catering assistant requires flexibility and adaptability, as the role may involve varying shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays. It also involves long hours of standing on your feet and working in fast-paced environments. 

A catering role offers the opportunity to be part of a team that brings culinary creations to life and turns events into memorable occasions. 

The Key Responsibilities of a Catering Assistant

There are many repsonisibilites of a catering assistant. These include: 

  • Food preparation: Boiling, baking, frying, and grilling under supervision. This also includes decorating and garnishing dishes. 
  • Venue setup and decoration: Decorate the venue with chairs, tables, and buffet stations. Lay out tablecloths, cutlery, glasses, and napkins for the guests, ensuring they look aesthetically pleasing.
  • Service to guests: Serve food and beverages and be knowledgeable of the menu. Manage any special requests and accommodate dietary needs.
  • Cleanliness and maintenance: Maintain cleanliness in the kitchen and dining areas, following hygiene and health standards. Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment, and dispose of waste appropriately.
  • Inventory management: Assist in managing inventory by noting low stock levels and helping with orders. Store food items efficiently and conduct regular checks of items and their use-by dates.
  • Team collaboration: Work closely with all team members to ensure great service. Participate in briefings and debriefings to understand event specifics and maintain effective communication.
  • Health and safety compliance: Adhere to all health and safety guidelines, such as proper food handling, first aid, and fire safety. Report any incidents or hazards to the supervisor.
  • Customer feedback and improvement: Gather feedback from guests to improve service and dining experience and implement any suggestions. Seek ways to always improve the quality of service.

Skills and Qualities of a Catering Assistant

A catering assistant must be equipped to work in a fast-paced environment with various responsibilities. 

The skills and qualities desired for the role include:

  • Strong communication skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Physical stamina and dexterity
  • Flexibility and adaptability 
  • Teamwork and collaboration 
  • Problem-solving
  • Organisational skills
  • Hygiene and safety 
  • Passion for food and hospitality 

Catering Assistant Training and Qualification

Although there is no specific degree that is required for a catering assistant role, former education such as GCSE and A levels are beneficial. This includes courses in hospitality, home economics, or food technology at the secondary school level. 

NVQs (National Vocational Qualifications) or City & Guilds in Catering and Hospitality are also highly advantageous. However, many catering assistants gain the skills needed on the job.

Previous experience in customer service or the food and hospitality industry is beneficial. You could volunteer at local events or take an apprenticeship in hospitality and catering to study in a hands-on environment. 

Career Progression

Catering assistants can progress to higher roles, such as senior catering assistant, team leader, or supervisor.

For those interested in advancing their career, specialised training in areas like event management, wine and beverage, or gourmet cuisine can be beneficial.

This includes opportunities to work in broader hospitality roles, such as restaurant or hotel management. If you want to go down the entrepreneur route, a role in catering can set you up to start your own catering business or become a food and event consultant.

Choose Greenbergs for Your Catering Uniform

Now that you are familiar with the catering assistant role and what it entails, why not prepare for your new job with us?

Our catering collection features durable and high-quality designs, perfect for busy days serving meals and organising events. 

Stains and spills will no longer be a problem with our durable aprons. Browse our range today or contact us for more information.