Catering Event Coordinator

Portillo's Hot Dogs - Oak Brook, IL

Full-time - Entry Level

Oak Brook, IL

Food Services and Drinking Places

About the position

As a Catering Event Coordinator, you will play a crucial role in enabling our purpose to create lifelong memories through exceptional food and experiences. This position requires a commitment to teamwork, as you will work closely with restaurant staff to ensure that every catering event runs smoothly. You will be responsible for arriving at least two hours early for large catering events to pre-load food and gather necessary equipment, ensuring that everything is in place for a successful delivery. Your attention to detail will be essential as you prepare and receive appropriate documentation for catering deliveries, confirming order checklists before leaving the restaurant. In addition to logistical responsibilities, you will also be the face of our brand during events, making genuine connections with guests and ensuring they have a memorable experience. This role demands a high level of energy and the ability to problem-solve on the spot, as you will need to address any issues that arise during delivery or the event itself. You will maintain the integrity of company financials, ensuring that all transactions are handled with care and accuracy. Your role will also involve creating complex catering setups while maintaining a focus on quality and cleanliness. You will be expected to proactively fulfill guest needs and bring a positive attitude to every event, contributing to a fun and engaging atmosphere. This position reports to the Catering Event Manager and is part of the Off-Premises Dining Team, requiring interaction with General Managers, Managers, and Front-Line Staff to ensure the success of each event.

Responsibilities

• Arrive at least 2 hours early for large catering events to pre-load food and gather equipment.
• Prepare and/or receive appropriate documentation for catering delivery; confirm order checklist before leaving the restaurant.
• Complete confirmation calls to customers to verify order details and special delivery instructions.
• Problem-solve issues that may arise during delivery or the event.
• Ensure delivery vehicle is fully fueled, clean, stocked, organized, and mechanically maintained.
• Maintain integrity with all company financials, including credit cards and tips.
• Create complex catering setups while maintaining attention to detail.
• Bring high energy to serve guests throughout long multiple day events.
• Proactively fulfill guest needs before being asked.
• Create a memorable Portillo's experience by delighting each guest and making genuine connections.
• Interact with guests throughout the event and participate when appropriate.
• Perform other related duties, tasks, and responsibilities as required.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Minimum 2 years delivery driver experience preferred.
• Minimum 2 years catering experience.
• Ability to comfortably speak, write, and comprehend English in a business setting.
• Build relationships with clients and restaurant operations to grow continued success for events.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• A valid driver's license issued from the state where you will drive and work.
• Comply with all federal, state, and local laws and regulations regarding operation of a motor vehicle.
• Must pass a background check that includes a good MVR (motor vehicle record).
• Must have MVR checked by Portillo's on an annual basis.
• Must be at least 21 years or older.
• Drivers must carry a working up-to-date cell phone during all events/deliveries.
• Excellent driving skills to ensure safe arrival for customers.
• Experience in food delivery is a plus.
• No smoking in vehicles when delivering Portillo's product.
• Genuine love for Portillo's is essential.
• Serve Safe License/Liquor License Certificate is a plus.
• Experience with electrical equipment.

Nice-to-haves

• Serve Safe License/Liquor License Certificate
• Experience with electrical equipment