Events & Catering Paid Internship

Happy Camper • Chicago, IL

2d • $17 - $20 • Onsite

About The Position

At Happy Hospitality Group, we believe events should be unforgettable — and so should your career journey. The Catering & Events Intern is designed as a launchpad role for someone eager to break into the fast-paced hospitality and events industry. This position offers the unique chance to learn every angle of the business: from off-site catering operations to high-energy private events at our restaurants. You’ll receive direct mentorship from experienced Catering and Events Managers, while gaining the hands-on skills needed to grow into a future leader in the industry. If you ’re a current student or a recent graduate who thrives on details, loves connecting with people, and wants to grow in an environment that balances fun, creativity, and professionalism — this role was built for you.

Requirements

• Applicant must be at least 21 years old
• Degree in Hospitality, Event Management, Communications, or something similar
• Strong organizational, communication, and multitasking skills.
• Detail-oriented with a proactive, customer-centric attitude.
• Ability to handle physical setup tasks as needed (e.g., buffet setup, equipment loading).
• Flexibility for occasional extended hours or multiple events in a day.
• Valid drivers license required
• Comfortable driving around the city of Chicago.
• Able to supply own housing in the city.
• Must be eligible to legally work in the United States.

Responsibilities

• Manage all buffet-related supplies and inventory for private events.
• Create and maintain SOPs for elevated buffet setups and streamlined catering inventory control.
• Assist with buffet setups for large private events.
• Support event setups including tables, décor, linens, and service areas.
• Serve as on-site events associate for larger-scale private events across the Chicago area.
• Assist with guest flow, vendor coordination, and service timing during events.
• Provide post-event feedback and assist with recap reports for process improvement.
• Manage all incoming off-site catering orders from inquiry to fulfillment.
• Operate and maintain TripleSeat and EzCater platforms for efficiency and accuracy.
• Track and report catering sales metrics, including detailed channel/source breakdowns.
• Oversee catering equipment inventory, maintenance, and storage.
• Coordinate all delivery logistics, invoicing, and payment processing.
• Build and maintain relationships with local businesses to grow catering sales.
• Monitor and maintain food quality and presentation standards for all catering orders.
• Collaborate with kitchen teams to confirm order details and delivery timelines.
• Maintain organized event and catering files for easy reference.
• Communicate with internal teams (kitchen, FOH, management) to ensure alignment on event details.
• Support marketing efforts for catering and events (e.g., updating menus, photos, social content requests).
• Assist in creating proposals, contracts, and BEOs (Banquet Event Orders).
• Provide exceptional customer service to all catering and event clients.
• Work side-by-side with the Events & Catering Manager and senior leadership to gain real-world mentorship
• Shadow leaders during high-profile events for exposure to advanced planning and execution
• Receive regular coaching and feedback intended to promote and foster professional growth
• Gain visibility into all aspects of restaurant group operations (catering, events, F&B, and guest experience).

Benefits

• Dining discounts across Happy Hospitality Group locations
• Opportunity to participate in outside work activities such as Windy City Smokeout and Cubs Games
• Clear pathway for career advancement within our growing Catering & Events division
• Mileage reimbursement provided for catering deliveries (if applicable).

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Intern