Tray Set-up Associate

Abby's Catering•Houston, TX

About The Position

Abby’s Catering’s Tray Set-up Associates support daily culinary production by preparing, portioning, and assembling cold food items and meal trays according to recipes, specifications, diagrams, menu cards, loading instructions, and portion guides. The role requires following HACCP guidelines and other food safety standards, maintaining accurate production documentation, and ensuring food items meet quality, accuracy, and safety requirements. Associates label, date, and rotate inventory using FIFO methods and help minimize waste while completing orders accurately and on time. The position works in a refrigerated production environment of approximately 35–40°F in a fast-paced, time-sensitive operation supporting flight departures at a 24/7 facility. Associates work with supervisors and team members, maintain clean and organized workstations, handle and sanitize food-preparation equipment, and report equipment or safety issues. The role also involves standing for extended periods, repetitive motion, and moderate lifting. The scheduled shift is 6:00 PM–2:30 AM, with rotating shifts, nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.

Requirements

Ability to work in a cold environment of approximately 35–40°F for extended periods.
Ability to work rotating shifts, including nights, weekends, holidays, and overtime as needed.
Strong attention to detail and accuracy in portioning and documentation.
Ability to read and interpret menu cards, portion charts, and loading diagrams.
Reliable attendance and punctuality.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States; sponsorship is not available.
Food Handler Certificate required, or ability to obtain one.

Nice To Haves

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Previous kitchen, food production, or food-handling experience is a plus.
Airline catering experience preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Prepare, portion, and assemble cold food items and meal trays according to recipes, specifications, and diagrams.
Follow detailed loading instructions, menu cards, and portion guides.
Label, date, and rotate inventory using FIFO methods.
Inspect food items for quality, accuracy, and contamination.
Maintain high accuracy to minimize waste and ensure 100% order completion.
Collaborate with supervisors and team members to meet flight departure times.
Maintain a clean, organized, and food-safe cold production area.
Support additional production tasks as assigned.
Promote teamwork and a respectful, positive work environment.
Handle, clean, and sanitize food-preparation tools, utensils, and equipment properly.
Set up and maintain organized workstations throughout the shift.
Report equipment or safety issues to leadership promptly.
Support continuous improvement in workflow efficiency and cleanliness.
Follow food safety, HACCP, GMP, and traceability requirements.
Maintain accurate production logs and report deviations immediately.
Adhere to PPE, personal hygiene, and sanitation standards.
Ensure work meets airline and regulatory requirements.
Maintain a safe, clean, and hazard-free workspace.