Temporary Events Server: Guest Services & Bar

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

Job description

In this role, you’ll help create a welcoming, positive environment for guests and coworkers by being friendly, respectful, and easy to work with. We value teamwork, inclusivity, and making sure everyone feels comfortable and supported.

Your main job will be serving food and drinks at events while providing great customer service. You’ll also help set up and clean up event spaces, handle payments, and keep service areas stocked and organized. You may also work alongside student staff, helping them learn and build confidence in a hospitality setting.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for all elements of on‑site events associated with setup, service, and breakdown.
• Ensure all events are executed correctly and all contractual obligations indicated on the event order are met.
• Communicate with the culinary team to ensure safe and elegant food service.
• Maintain buffets and food displays to departmental standards.
• Provide safe, responsible alcohol practices for both tableside and bar‑style service.
• Respond to guest requests and concerns.
• Create a welcoming environment for event guests.
• Report incidents, concerns, and noteworthy occurrences at events to management team.
• Prepare event materials such as silverware, glassware, linens, heating elements, and decorations.
• Serve guests at buffets, receptions, and plated events.
• Assist with guest audiovisual needs.

Requirements

• Must also be able to work in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment with coworkers and guests.
• Must be able to commit the time needed for each event while standing on their feet for long periods of time.
• Desire to learn and master the fundamentals of the job.

Shifts will vary depending on events and may include evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Prior to starting any job on campus, you will need to file an I‑9 form. To prepare, collect required documents of identity and work eligibility. Open https://www.uscis.gov/i-9-central/form-i-9-acceptable-documents for details.

EEO Statement

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.

Contact: Lisa Rhoads, Email: [e-mail]