Part-Time Catering and Concession Staff - VISUAL AND PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

Primary Purpose

Provide support for food and beverage operations at the Visual & Performing Arts Center (VPAC), including concession sales and catering services for district and external events. Ensure a high level of customer service while assisting with event setup, service, and breakdown in a safe and efficient manner.

Qualifications

• Texas Food Handler Certification (required prior to start date)
• Harris County Sanitation Certification (required or must obtain)
• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• Knowledge of food service, concessions, or catering operations preferred
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Ability to handle cash and operate point-of-sale systems
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• Ability to follow food safety and sanitation regulations
• Experience in food service, hospitality, or event environment preferred

Special Knowledge/Skills

• Experience in food service, hospitality, or event environment preferred
• Knowledge of food service, concessions, or catering operations preferred
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Ability to handle cash and operate point-of-sale systems
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• Ability to follow food safety and sanitation regulations

Essential Functions

• Concessions Operations: Prepare and serve food and beverages; Operate POS system and process transactions accurately; Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of concession areas; Restock inventory and assist with stand setup and breakdown
• Catering & Event Service: Read and interpret Banquet Event Orders (BEOs); Assist with event setup (tables, linens, service stations); Serve food and beverages in accordance with service standards; Assist with bussing, food running, dishwashing, and breakdown; Support off-site catering events as needed
• Event Operations Support: Assist with event setup and teardown (tables, chairs, equipment); Clean, reset, and prepare event spaces; Properly handle and store equipment
• Customer Service & Teamwork: Provide professional and courteous service to all guests; Maintain a positive and team-oriented attitude; Communicate effectively with staff and supervisors
• Safety & Compliance: Follow all food safety and sanitation standards; Comply with district policies and safety procedures; Use proper lifting and handling techniques

Additional Duties

• Maintain clean and organized work areas
• Aid with transportation for off-site events if required
• Perform basic equipment operation (dishwashing/laundry)
• Perform other duties as assigned

Working Conditions

• Mental Demands/Physical Demands/Environmental Factors: Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching; Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling (up to 30 lbs); Indoor and occasional outdoor work; Exposure to kitchen equipment and varying temperatures
• Posture: Standing, walking, bending, kneeling, and reaching
• Motion: Frequent lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling (up to 30 lbs)
• Environment: Indoor and occasional outdoor work; Exposure to kitchen equipment and varying temperatures

Tools/Equipment Used

• Standard kitchen equipment
• POS systems
• Catering and cleaning equipment