Temporary Catering & Event Support Coordinator, Cornell Catering

Cornell University; Town of Ithaca (NY); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Cornell Catering, part of Cornell University, is hiring a Temporary Catering & Event Support Coordinator to lead onsite service for events at Cornell's Ithaca campus. The role emphasizes excellent customer service, professionalism, and collaboration with student and temporary staff.

It is a full-time temporary 6-month term, non-benefits eligible, with a wage of $26.00 per hour. The position requires managing event details, coordinating staff, and maintaining food safety and service standards

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of catering, events or food service experience.
• Strong communication, organization and customer service skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with basic office functions including email, documentation, and coordination of event details.

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.

Skills

Customer service

On-site event management

Communication

Multi-tasking

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

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 fast‑paced, 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 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.

Cornell welcomes 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 seeks job candidates who will contribute to a climate that supports students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. We hire based on merit, and encourage 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