Caterer I at WVU Medicine: A Culinary Career in Martinsburg, West Virginia

Role Overview

The Caterer I position at WVU Medicine's Berkeley Medical Center (BMC) in Martinsburg, West Virginia, is a vital role within the Food Services department. This position is responsible for preparing, delivering, and setting up food and beverages for a variety of catered functions, including teas, coffee breaks, luncheons, and dinners. The Caterer I ensures the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and sanitation are maintained at all times. This role requires a combination of culinary skills, organizational abilities, and a commitment to providing excellent customer service.

A Day in the Life of a Caterer I

Imagine starting your day by reviewing the catering schedule for the day. You'll collaborate with the Director and manager to finalize menus, ensuring they are nutritionally balanced, visually appealing, and cater to the specific needs of each event. Next, you'll be responsible for ordering the necessary ingredients, meticulously checking for freshness and quality. The bulk of your day will be spent preparing food items according to standardized recipes, ensuring consistency and taste. You'll utilize your culinary skills to create attractive food presentations, paying attention to detail and aesthetics. Once the food is prepared, you'll carefully pack and transport it to the event location, setting up the catering area in an organized and appealing manner. During the event, you'll serve food and beverages to guests, providing friendly and efficient service. After the event, you'll be responsible for cleaning up the catering area, ensuring all equipment is properly sanitized and stored. You’ll also track and manage inventory, assist with billing, and contribute to maintaining a clean and organized workspace.

Why Martinsburg, West Virginia?

Martinsburg, West Virginia, offers a unique blend of small-town charm and access to big-city amenities. Located in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley, Martinsburg boasts a rich history, beautiful scenery, and a friendly community. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other parts of the country, making it an affordable place to live and work. The area offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing. Martinsburg is also conveniently located near major metropolitan areas like Washington, D.C., and Baltimore, providing access to a wide range of cultural and entertainment options. Working at WVU Medicine in Martinsburg provides the opportunity to contribute to the health and well-being of the local community while enjoying a high quality of life.

Career Path for a Caterer I

The Caterer I position is an excellent starting point for a career in the culinary arts and food service industry. With experience and training, you can advance to roles such as Caterer II, Lead Caterer, or Catering Manager. You can also explore opportunities in other areas of the Food Services department, such as Chef, Food Prep Cook, or Baker. WVU Medicine provides ample opportunities for professional development and advancement, supporting employees in achieving their career goals. Continuously learning and improving your skills, seeking certifications, and demonstrating leadership qualities will open doors to new and exciting career paths within the organization.

Salary & Benefits

The estimated salary range for a Caterer I at WVU Medicine in Martinsburg, West Virginia, is $27,000 to $38,000 per year. WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), paid time off (PTO) and vacation days, a retirement plan with employer matching, life insurance, disability insurance, an employee assistance program (EAP), tuition reimbursement, professional development opportunities, employee discounts, wellness programs, flexible spending accounts (FSA), and health savings accounts (HSA). These benefits are designed to support employees' physical, mental, and financial well-being, creating a supportive and rewarding work environment.

WVU Medicine Culture

WVU Medicine is committed to creating a culture of excellence, teamwork, and patient-centered care. Employees are valued for their contributions and are encouraged to collaborate and innovate. The organization fosters a supportive and inclusive work environment where everyone feels respected and appreciated. WVU Medicine is dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare services to the community and is committed to the professional growth and development of its employees. Working at WVU Medicine means being part of a team that is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of others.

How to Apply

To apply for the Caterer I position at WVU Medicine, please click the "Apply" button located at the top of this job description and complete the application in full. Be sure to highlight your relevant skills, experience, and qualifications. You may also want to include a cover letter expressing your interest in the position and outlining your career goals. The application process may also require you to upload a resume and provide references. If you have any questions or need assistance with the application process, please contact the WVU Medicine Human Resources department.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What are the minimum qualifications for the Caterer I position? The minimum qualifications include a high school diploma or equivalent and current person in charge training or ServSafe food handler certification (excluding Berkeley/Morgan County).
2. What are the preferred qualifications for the Caterer I position? The preferred qualification is a Culinary School graduate.
3. What are the physical requirements for the Caterer I position? The physical requirements include the ability to lift and transport cases of product (up to 20 pounds), unimpaired visual acuity, hearing within normal range, and the ability to walk, stand, stoop, reach, push, pull, lift, and grasp.
4. What are the working environment conditions for the Caterer I position? The work environment involves working in a kitchen setting with exposure to heat, noise, and cleaning chemicals.
5. What are the core duties and responsibilities of the Caterer I position? The core duties and responsibilities include planning catered events, preparing and delivering food, maintaining sanitation, and assisting with other departmental needs.
6. What opportunities are there for professional development at WVU Medicine? WVU Medicine offers tuition reimbursement, professional development opportunities, and opportunities for advancement.
7. What is the salary range for the Caterer I position? The estimated salary range is $27,000 to $38,000 per year.
8. What benefits does WVU Medicine offer to its employees? WVU Medicine offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, paid time off, a retirement plan, life insurance, and more.
9. How can I apply for the Caterer I position? To apply, click the "Apply" button located at the top of this job description and complete the application in full.
10. What is the work culture like at WVU Medicine? WVU Medicine is committed to creating a culture of excellence, teamwork, and patient-centered care, fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment.