Banquet Captain

University of Arizona; Tucson (AZ); On-site; USD 22,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full benefits

Job summary

The University of Arizona in Tucson seeks a service-oriented Banquet Captain to lead catered events across campus. You will oversee all banquet operations, manage staff, coordinate with culinary teams and clients, and ensure food safety and high-quality service.

The role demands proactive problem-solving, strong leadership, and a commitment to exceptional customer experiences. This is a full-time on-site position located at the Tucson Campus, with opportunities for growth within Catering and

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent is required.
• Five years of relevant banquet or events experience.
• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive per University policy.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for all aspects of assigned events, from preparation to post-event cleanup.
• Leads, trains and motivates banquet staff to ensure efficient and quality service.
• Assigns roles, monitors progress and ensures events meet client expectations.
• Serves as a point of contact for the client/host and coordinates orders and table service.
• Addresses changes in attendees, dietary restrictions and staffing as needed.
• Coordinates with Event Planning team to ensure exceptional customer service.

Skills

Staff leadership

Event coordination

Customer service

Communication

Food safety knowledge

Job description

Position Highlights

The University is seeking service-oriented Banquet Captain to lead the successful execution of catered events across campus. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of banquet operations, including event setup, food service, staff supervision, equipment usage, and adherence to food safety and sanitation standards. Banquet Captains serve as the primary on-site leaders during events, ensuring seamless coordination between banquet staff, culinary teams, clients, and event hosts. Through proactive problem-solving, strong leadership, and a commitment to exceptional customer service, Banquet Captains help deliver high-quality events that consistently meet or exceed client expectations while maintaining a safe, efficient, and professional environment.

Visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Outstanding U of A benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance plans; life insurance and disability programs; paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays; U of A/ASU/NAU tuition reduction for the employee and qualified family members; retirement plans; access to U of A recreation and cultural activities; and more!

Duties & Responsibilities

• Responsible for all aspects of assigned events, from preparation to post event clean up.
• Leads, trains and motivates banquet staff to ensure efficient and quality service.
• Assigns roles, monitors progress and ensures events meet client expectations.
• Serves as a point of contact for the client and/or host.
• Assists in the training and mentoring of food service staff.
• Greets and welcomes guests, assist with seating and food service.
• Coordinates orders and table service.
• Addresses any unexpected changes such as increases in attendees, changes in dietary restrictions and staffing adjustments.
• Partners with the Event Planning team to ensure exceptional customer service.
• Serves food and beverages to guests efficiently, ensuring proper presentations and timing.
• Identifies and anticipates potential issues during events and proactively resolves them.
• Promptly and professionally addresses customer complaints and works to find a resolution.
• Monitors and maintains banquet supplies.
• Ensures all supplies are in good working condition before each event and requests replacements as necessary.
• Ensures safe handling of food and sanitation of equipment.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to work evenings and weekends.
• Ability to effectively communicate with a different range of clients and colleagues.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced stressful environment.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to move/transport a maximum of 40lbs.

This job posting reflects the general nature and level of work expected of the selected candidate(s). It is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities. The institution reserves the right to amend or update this description as organizational priorities and institutional needs evolve.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or high school diploma equivalency is required.
• Five years of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• Must have a valid driver's license and ability to drive according to the University Fleet Safety Policy.

Additional Employment Details

FLSA: Non-Exempt

Full Time/Part Time: Full Time

Number of Hours Worked per Week: 40

Job FTE: 1.0

Work Calendar: Fiscal

Job Category: Culinary

Benefits Eligible: Yes - Full Benefits

Rate of Pay: $16.50 - $20.63

Compensation Type: hourly rate

Grade: 3

Compensation Guidance: The Rate of Pay Field represents the University of Arizona's good faith and reasonable estimate of the range of possible compensation at the time of posting. The University considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, key skills, and internal equity.
The Grade Range represent a full range of career compensation growth over time. The university offers compensation growth opportunities within its career architecture. To learn more about compensation, please review our Applicant Compensation Guide and our Total Rewards Calculator.

Career Stream and Level: OC3

Job Family: Catering and Banquet Services

Job Function: Culinary

Type of criminal background check required: Name-based criminal background check (non-security sensitive)

Number of Vacancies: 1

Target Hire Date: 10/5/2026

Location: Tucson Campus

Address: Tucson, AZ USA

Contact Information for Candidates: [e-mail]