Catering Operations Manager (FT)

ZipRecruiter; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading venue in Fort Worth is seeking a Catering Operations Manager to oversee catering for various events. This role involves managing staff, ensuring food quality, and collaborating with culinary teams. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in catering management and strong organizational skills.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of leadership experience in Food & Beverage.
• Experience with various catering formats including plated and buffet service.

Responsibilities

• Oversee catering operations for events at Dickies Arena.
• Develop and manage part-time leaders and staff.

Skills

Leadership

Organization

Communication

Tools

Catering Software

POS Systems

PC Applications

Job description

Catering Operations Manager Position

TRAIL DRIVE MANAGEMENT CORP. – DICKIES ARENA OF FORT WORTH, TX

Dickies Arena is a 14,000-seat, multipurpose venue located adjacent to the Will Rogers Memorial Center campus in Fort Worth, Texas. Owned by the City of Fort Worth and managed by Trail Drive Management Corp (TDMC), the arena hosts concerts, sporting events, and family entertainment, including Fort Worth Stock Show rodeo performances.

Classification: Exempt, Full Time

Reports To: Manager of Catering and Events

Job Description:

The Catering Operations Manager exercises general supervision over catering operations for ticketed events at Dickies Arena, including but not limited to the FWSSR, concerts, sporting events, and large private functions up to 1600 guests. The manager provides leadership, support, and guidance to part-time catering staff, ensuring food quality, sanitation, and safe alcohol service standards are maintained.

Essential Functions:

• Oversee the success, communication, and coordination of all events at Dickies Arena and by TDMC.
• Develop and manage part-time leaders and staff, including hiring, training, and scheduling in accordance with attendance guidelines.
• Collaborate daily with culinary and F&B leadership teams.
• Plan menus and staffing within budget constraints.
• Ensure accurate billing and communication with clients and organizational counterparts.
• Coordinate with building operations to meet event-specific needs.
• Work with tour representatives, VIP coordinators, and internal teams for each event.
• Identify and oversee special projects to improve department and arena operations.
• Maintain knowledge of policies related to alcohol service, sanitation, safety, and security.
• Engage with guests and team members to deliver exceptional hospitality.
• Assist with BEO preparations and update event software systems with accurate details.
• Conduct pre-shift meetings and oversee the presentation and atmosphere of catering locations.
• Expedite communication of special requests and guest issues.

Qualifications:

• 3+ years of leadership experience in Food & Beverage, focusing on catering management in full-service resorts, hotels, or convention centers.
• Experience with various catering formats including plated and buffet service.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and excellent communication skills.
• Proficiency with catering software, POS systems, and basic PC applications.
• Ability to work extended hours, nights, weekends, and holidays, and to handle fluctuating temperatures.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 100 pounds occasionally.
• Excellent sensory skills to evaluate food and beverages.

Work Environment & Demands:

• Primarily indoor work with frequent movement throughout the venue, including outdoor conditions.
• Moderate to high noise levels, with exposure to extreme temperatures and outdoor weather.
• Requires multitasking under pressure, conflict resolution, and effective communication skills.

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.