Temp Banquet Captain, Catering Services

Vanderbilt University; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 42,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University in Nashville is seeking an experienced events coordinator to plan, coordinate, and execute catering events on campus. The role involves working with Catering Management to develop logistics, timelines and staffing plans for successful events.

You will lead and supervise contracted wait staff, student employees, and hourly union staff, ensuring adherence to departmental standards and event requirements.

Qualifications

• Experience coordinating catering events with timelines and service standards.
• Ability to lead staff and supervise contracted or student employees.
• Strong focus on safety, sanitation, and compliant operations.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and execute catering events according to goals, timelines and service standards.
• Collaborate with Catering Management to develop logistics plans, event timelines, staffing, and requirements.
• Prepare daily event pull sheets and task assignments for seamless execution.
• Oversee event setup, service, breakdown, and cleanup; ensure professional delivery.
• Maintain event documentation and identify opportunities for improvement.

Skills

Event planning

Team leadership

Operational logistics

Safety & compliance

Tools

Vehicle operation

Catering equipment management

Job description

Event Planning, Coordination, and Execution

• Coordinate and execute catering events in accordance with established goals, timelines, and service standards.
• Collaborate with Catering Management to develop logistical plans, event timelines, staffing assignments, and operational requirements.
• Prepare daily event pull sheets and task assignments to ensure seamless event execution.
• Oversee event setup, service, breakdown, and cleanup activities, ensuring events are completed efficiently and professionally.
• Maintain accurate event documentation and evaluate outcomes to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

Team Leadership and Staff Development

• Lead, train, coach, and supervise contracted wait staff, student employees, and hourly union employees.
• Assign work, communicate expectations, and monitor performance to ensure compliance with departmental standards and event requirements.
• Foster a positive work environment through effective communication, conflict resolution, and employee engagement.
• Support employee development through ongoing training and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Demonstrate sound judgment in task delegation, prioritization, and escalation of operational or personnel concerns.

Operational Logistics and Resource Management

• Coordinate food, equipment, and supply deliveries to event locations while ensuring quality, safety, and timeliness.
• Operate department vehicles, including box trucks, vans, and golf carts, in a safe and responsible manner.
• Manage catering inventory, including equipment, linens, uniforms, décor, alcohol, and vehicles, and recommend repairs or replacements as needed.
• Assist with departmental deliveries and special event logistics to support Campus Dining operations.
• Continuously assess operational needs and recommend strategies to improve efficiency, service quality, and program growth.

Safety, Compliance, and Quality Assurance

• Maintain a safe work environment by enforcing safety standards, conducting safety audits, and ensuring compliance with departmental policies and procedures.
• Monitor customer service, food quality, event presentation, and employee performance to maintain high operational standards.
• Ensure food deliveries, handling, and service practices meet all applicable safety and sanitation requirements.
• Promote accountability and consistency through regular review of operational processes, event outcomes, and service expectations.

About Us

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville , Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of “America’s Best Large Employers” as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.