Catering Server - Hampton University

Thompson Hospitality Corp.; Hampton (VA); On-site; USD 19,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Thompson Hospitality is seeking a Catering Server at Hampton University to support campus events and deliver exceptional food and beverage service. You will help set up venues, assist guests, and ensure a polished dining experience across formal banquets and casual receptions.

Join a fast-paced team on a historic Virginia campus, with opportunities to engage with guests, present menus, and maintain cleanliness throughout events. Flexibility for nights, weekends, and holidays is expected.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in event setup and service.
• Knowledge of food presentation and portion control.
• Ability to address guest needs and inquiries effectively.
• Proficient in maintaining event cleanliness and organization.

Responsibilities

• Set up event venues per client specifications, arranging furniture, decor, and equipment.
• Serve food and drinks following portion, presentation, and quality guidelines.
• Engage with guests, provide menu information, answer inquiries, and accommodate special requests.
• Maintain event cleanliness by clearing tables, cleaning utensils, and resetting for subsequent phases.
• Assist in post-event cleanup and return the venue to its original state.

Skills

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Event setup

Guest service

Open to shift work

Job description

Overview

Join our campus catering team as a Catering Server at Hampton University and be a key player in creating memorable dining experiences at a variety of events across our college community. As a Catering Server, you’ll deliver outstanding food and beverage service while helping to set the tone for high-quality campus events. From formal banquets to casual receptions, your attention to detail and passion for hospitality will help ensure every event runs smoothly and leaves a lasting impression.

Responsibilities

• Set up event venues per client specifications, arranging furniture, decor, and equipment.
• Serve food and drinks in accordance with portion, presentation, and quality guidelines, ensuring guest satisfaction.
• Engage with guests, providing menu information, addressing inquiries, and accommodating special requests for a positive dining experience.
• Maintain event cleanliness by clearing tables, cleaning utensils, and resetting for subsequent event phases.
• Assist in post-event cleanup, returning the venue to its original state as directed by the event organizer or catering manager.

Qualifications

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience in event setup and service
• Knowledge of food presentation and portion control
• Ability to address guest needs and inquiries effectively.
• Proficient in maintaining event cleanliness and organization.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk continuously for extended periods during shifts.
• Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and twisting.
• Ability to lift and carry trays, dishes, and supplies weighing up to 25–35 pounds.
• Manual dexterity to handle glassware, plates, and service tools safely.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Tolerance for exposure to heat, noise, and crowded spaces.
• Ability to navigate dining areas quickly and safely.
• Strong balance and coordination while carrying food and beverages.
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Who We Are:

Hampton University is a historically Black university located in Hampton, Virginia, with a rich history and strong ties to the African American experience. Located on the scenic Virginia Peninsula where history meets innovation, HU offers a vibrant academic community with top-tier programs in liberal arts, technology, and graduate studies. Representing 49 states and 35 countries, our close-knit campus is alive with diversity and drive. Hampton University offers more than an education — it’s an experience that shapes leaders, inspires dreams, and launches futures.

Thompson Hospitality is of the largest restaurants, food service, and facilities management companies in the country. We are highly built upon our values, do the right thing, do the best you can, and treat others how you want to be treated, which are shaped by more than 33 years of relationships with our clients, guests, and communities. We offer competitive benefits, see our website for more. https://www.thompsonhospitality.com/

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local laws.