Catering Lead

Panera LLC; Miry Brook (CT); On-site; USD 23,419 - 27,896; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay & eligible for team tips

Free on-shift meals & unlimited fountain beverages

Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays

Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, pet insurance

401(k) with match available

Tuition discounts

Perks & rewards for team members

Job summary

Panera LLC in Danbury, CT is seeking a Catering Lead to manage and produce catering orders, ensuring guests have a satisfying experience with excellent food quality and service.

The role requires effective communication, organizational skills, and a commitment to health and safety standards. Enjoy competitive pay of $17.00 – $20.25 and perks such as free meals, medical benefits, and flexible scheduling.

Qualifications

• Minimum age: 18 years.
• Basic food safety training required.
• Must have vehicle for deliveries and an acceptable driving record.

Responsibilities

• Manage and produce catering orders for guests.
• Create memorable experiences with friendly service.
• Assist with delivering orders to events.

Skills

Effective communication skills

Excellent organizational skills

Self-starter

Time-management skills

Customer service orientation

Job description

Catering Lead at Panera, our people come first. If you're looking for a place where you can grow, feel supported, be yourself, enjoy great perks, and have a little fun along the way—you’re in the right spot. We’re here to help you succeed every day, in every way.

What’s In It for You?

• Competitive pay & eligible for team tips
• Free on-shift meals & unlimited fountain beverages
• Flexible & reliable scheduling
• Paid vacation, sick time, and holidays for full-time team members
• Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, pet insurance & 401(k) with match available
• Career advancement & leadership development opportunities
• Tuition discounts
• Perks & rewards for team members
• Team member assistance program

As a Catering Lead at Panera, you play a crucial role in our catering operations. You help guests plan and choose delicious, familiar and fantastic Panera dishes for their events, respond to their inquiries and requirements, and guarantee hassle‑free hosting with craveable food delivered promptly and accurately.

Responsibilities

• Manage and produce catering orders for our guests
• Create memorable experiences with warm, friendly service, effective communication, and proactive follow‑ups to ensure every guest leaves satisfied
• Assist with delivering orders to guests’ events
• Strictly adhere to health and food safety standards
• Maintain Panera’s exceptional standards for craveable food quality
• Build excitement and interest in Panera’s products and services
• Market Panera Catering to local area businesses, schools and events
• Assist and support Managers and Team Members as needed
• Help build our culture of warmth, belonging, growth, and trust

Qualifications and Requirements

• Minimum age: 18 years
• Complete basic food safety understanding and practice training (Food Handler’s Card, as required by law)
• Enjoy people and have effective communication skills
• Self‑starter who can meet goals with limited supervision
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills
• Must have your own vehicle for delivering orders and an acceptable driving record
• Flexible hours, including nights and weekends in a fast‑paced environment with shifting priorities
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull objects 25–50 pounds
• Capability to stand and walk for up to 3 hours
• Clear communication and quick understanding of directions in a loud environment
• Be an ambassador of Panera’s Guiding Values and Behaviors

Equal Opportunity Employer: Disabled/Veterans

Competitive pay: $17.00 – $20.25 (actual pay offered will be determined by multiple factors, including but not limited to the candidate’s relevant experience, job‑related knowledge, skills, and geographical location.)

Location: Danbury, CT – Sugar Hollow Road