Houston,TX,USA Cafe And Catering Associate-$18 To $20.5 Per HOUR

The Houston Food Bank is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger and improving the quality of life for people in the Houston community. As one of the largest food banks in the United States, the Houston Food Bank serves hundreds of thousands of individuals and families annually by distributing nutritious food and providing educational programs to promote self-sufficiency and well-being. The organization is committed to its core values, summarized by the acronym PACT: Purpose, Accountability, Courage, and Transparency, which guide every aspect of its operations and interactions. The Houston Food Bank operates a variety of facilities and services, including a cafe and banquet service for catered events. These operations are essential to support the organization’s mission, offering not only food service but also creating welcoming community environments. The facilities are managed by dedicated staff who ensure quality, punctuality, and customer service in all aspects of food preparation, delivery, and guest interaction. The Cafe and Catering Associate position plays a pivotal role within the Houston Food Bank’s catering and food service operations. This is a dynamic role requiring flexibility, as the associate must be open to working a flexible schedule with varying hours between 5am and 10pm, including nights and weekends. The core responsibilities include managing cafe registers and providing catering services, ensuring the smooth setup and breakdown of tables and food service areas for various events. This role involves greeting guests warmly, managing cash registers by collecting payments, providing pricing information, and maintaining a friendly and professional atmosphere. The associate is expected to be a reliable point of contact for guests at catered events, assisting customers with inquiries or concerns and ensuring a seamless guest experience. Maintaining cleanliness of the work area and upholding personal hygiene standards are critical for this role. In addition to serving guests in the cafe, this position supports scheduled catering events by preparing, assembling, and delivering catered food. The associate coordinates with other staff regarding menu requests and special delivery instructions, manages logistics to ensure timely service, and efficiently handles the setup and cleanup of event spaces. Accurate cash handling, monitoring and balancing cash registers, and excellent communication skills are all necessary to perform this role effectively. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong customer service skills, administrative capabilities, and the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge of basic cooking and baking, culinary terminology, and commercial food service equipment is preferred. The associate must have excellent verbal and written communication skills as well as the ability to work with a diverse population. Time management skills and internal and external customer interaction skills are essential for ensuring a productive and positive guest service experience. This position does not include supervisory responsibilities but requires accountability, the ability to work independently, and a proactive approach to resolving issues. Safety, compliance with organizational policies, and adherence to PACT values are fundamental aspects of this role. Physical requirements include the ability to stand for extended periods, occasionally lift up to 25 pounds, and move about the kitchen and facility. The work environment is primarily a kitchen and event setting with exposure to various food smells, some noise, humidity, and weather conditions. The Cafe and Catering Associate is an essential team member supporting the mission of the Houston Food Bank by delivering exceptional service at catered events and in the cafe. This position offers meaningful work in a community-focused organization, requiring dedication, flexibility, and a genuine passion for helping others through food service.

• Must be open to working a flexible work schedule with varying hours (5am-10pm), days or shifts (including nights, weekends)
• high school diploma or GED
• 1 year of experience in kitchen or restaurant environment preferred
• ability to perform duties satisfactorily
• reliable, consistent attendance and punctuality
• ability to stand for extended periods
• ability to lift up to 25 pounds
• ability to use basic arithmetic
• strong communication skills
• ability to work with diverse populations
• ability to follow instructions
• legally able to work in the United States