Temporary Catering & Event Support Coordinator, Cornell Catering

Cornell University; Ithaca (MI); On-site; USD 54,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Cornell Catering in Ithaca, NY, seeks a Temporary Catering & Event Support Coordinator to lead on-site service for catered events. This full-time, six-month term emphasizes customer service, food safety, and teamwork while ensuring contracts and guest expectations are met.

The role covers setting up and breaking down events, coordinating staff, and maintaining high standards of professionalism. Wage is $26 per hour, with opportunities to assist larger events as needed and to support a

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• 3–5 years in catering, events or food service, or equivalent.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines with accuracy.
• Proficient in basic office functions and event coordination.

Responsibilities

• Lead on-site event operations during service hours, including set-up and breakdown.
• Ensure event details align with contracts and guest expectations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and service standards.
• Assign staff to service stations and ensure coverage.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, alcohol service, and health regulations.
• Address guest concerns and support a positive client experience.
• Provide guidance to student and temporary staff during events.
• Complete post-event documentation, including logs and closing paperwork.

Skills

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Customer service

Office software

Communication

Teamwork

Stamina

Driver's license

Education

High school diploma

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Cornell Catering is seeking a Temporary Catering & Event Support Coordinator to support the successful execution of catered events across Cornell’s Ithaca campus. This role is responsible for leading onsite service for assigned events while delivering excellent customer service and maintaining high standards of professionalism, food safety, and teamwork. The Temporary Catering & Event Support Coordinator may lead smaller events independently and assist with larger, more complex events as needed.

This is a full-time temporary 6-month term, non-benefits eligible position. Wage per hour is $26.00.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on‑site event operations during service hours, including set‑up and breakdown.
• Ensure event details align with confirmed contracts and guest expectations.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and service standards.
• Assign staff to service stations and ensure appropriate coverage.
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, alcohol service, and health regulations.
• Address guest concerns and support a positive client experience.
• Provide guidance and feedback to student and temporary staff during events.
• Complete required post event documentation, including temperature logs and closing paperwork.

Required Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Three to five years of experience in catering, events, or food service, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Demonstrate the ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize deadlines, and maintain a high level of accuracy and attention to detail in an office and event environment.
• Proficiency with basic office functions, including email communication, documentation, and coordination of event‑related details (Microsoft Office)
• Ability to be self motivated and anticipate client and department requests.
• Strong communication, organization, and customer service skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a fastpaced, team-oriented environment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand or walk for extended periods.
• Valid NYS driver’s license (as needed for event-related duties).

Preferred Qualifications

• ServSafe certification and knowledge of HACCP and sanitation procedures.
• Prior experience leading or training staff in an event setting.

Additional Information

This is position requires onsite work and may include evenings, weekends, or variable hours based on event schedules. As a member of the Cornell community, the Temporary Catering & Event Support Coordinator is expected to support a culture of inclusion, professionalism, and collaboration.

No relocation assistance is provided for this position. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position

University Job Title:

Temporary Food Service/Kitchen Worker

Job Family:

Temporary Auxiliary Services

Level:

No Grade - Hourly

Pay Rate Type:

Hourly

Pay Range:

Refer to Posting Language

Remote Option Availability:

Onsite

Job Titles and Pay Ranges:

Non-Union Positions

Noted pay ranges reflect the potential pay opportunity for each job profile. The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined considering the following criteria:

• Prior relevant work or industry experience
• Education level to the extent education is relevant to the position
• Unique applicable skills
• Academic Discipline

Union Positions

The hiring rate of pay for the successful candidate will be determined in accordance with the rates in the respective collective bargaining agreement. To learn more about Cornell’s union wages, see Union Pay Rates.

EEO Statement:

Cornellwelcomes students, faculty, and staff with diverse backgrounds from across the globe to pursue world-class education and career opportunities, to further the founding principle of “… any person … any study.” No person shall be denied employment on the basis of any legally protected status or subjected to prohibited discrimination involving, but not limited to, such factors as race, ethnic or national origin, citizenship and immigration status, color, sex, pregnancy or pregnancy-related conditions, age, creed, religion, actual or perceived disability (including persons associated with such a person), arrest and/or conviction record, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, gender expression and/or identity, an individual’s genetic information, domestic violence victim status, familial status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Cornell University embraces diversity in its workforce and seeksjob candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. Wehire based on merit, andencourage people from historically underrepresented and/or marginalized identities to apply.Consistent with federal law, Cornell engages in affirmative action in employment for qualified protected veterans as defined in the Vietnam Era Veterans’ Readjustment Assistance Act (VEVRAA) and qualified individuals with disabilities under Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act. We also recognize a lawful preference in employment practices for Native Americans living on or near Indian reservations in accordance with applicable law.

2026-04-02