Temporary Sales Assistant, Cornell Catering
About The Position
Cornell Catering is seeking a Temporary Sales Assistant to support catering sales and client service for events across Cornell University's Ithaca campus. The role provides administrative and customer service support throughout the catering sales process, helping deliver a positive client experience from initial inquiry through event execution. The assistant serves as a key client contact, supports event coordination and documentation, and collaborates with Catering Sales and Operations teams. This is a part-time, 19-hours-per-week, six-month, non-benefits-eligible position. The hourly wage is $21.00. The position requires onsite work and may include evenings, weekends, or variable hours based on operational needs. No relocation assistance or visa sponsorship is available.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Two to four years of experience in customer service, hospitality, event coordination, sales support, administrative support, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities, maintain attention to detail, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills and a customer-focused approach.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, and other office productivity tools.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively within a team.
- Sound judgment, flexibility, and professionalism when interacting with clients and colleagues.
- Ability to occasionally lift and carry up to 25 pounds and support onsite event needs when required.
- Ability to cultivate and develop inclusive working relationships with students, faculty, staff, and community members.
Nice To Haves
- Experience in catering, hospitality, conference services, event planning, or sales support.
- Familiarity with Cornell University and its campus departments.
- Experience with catering, event management, or customer relationship management (CRM) software.
- Knowledge of current hospitality and catering industry trends.
Responsibilities
- Respond to client inquiries by phone and email, providing timely and professional customer service.
- Prepare proposals, event documentation, and client communications in support of the catering sales process.
- Assist in coordinating event details, including menus, venue logistics, timelines, and service requirements.
- Maintain accurate client and event records in catering management systems and departmental databases.
- Monitor and track event-related deadlines and follow up promptly with clients and internal partners.
- Collaborate with Catering Sales, Event Operations, and Culinary teams on event planning and execution.
- Assist with departmental outreach and initiatives to promote catering services across campus.
- Provide onsite support for selected events as needed to meet client expectations and ensure smooth logistics.
- Identify opportunities to improve client satisfaction and service delivery.
- Complete administrative reporting and other assigned support functions.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
