How to Write a Catering Assistant CV: Examples and Tips

A catering assistant plays a pivotal role in creating exceptional culinary experiences across diverse industries, from the vibrant realms of music and film to corporate and hospitality settings. It's a dynamic and competitive field, demanding versatility and skill. Knowing how to write a good CV is essential for showcasing your ability to contribute to unforgettable events and securing opportunities in this exciting role.

A modern CV is essential for highlighting customer service skills and culinary qualifications, and contributions to seamless event execution, from food preparation to service. Catering often involves collaboration with a range of professionals including chefs, servers, and event coordinators. Communication is also key to coordinating tasks, and adapting to dynamic events from corporate conferences to entertainment venues, exhibitions and beyond.

Writing an effective CV for a catering job starts with a professional CV template to ensure the most eye-catching presentation of your credentials. This comprehensive guide offers step-by-step assistance for attracting potential employers, getting shortlisted for a job interview and finding a role.

Catering assistant CV example 

This catering assistant CV for Benjamin Fletcher illustrates more than five years of experience in the UK hospitality and retail sectors. Proficient in food preparation, service, and barista coffee making, his skills and work experience showcase his dedication to outstanding customer service and upholding high food safety and hygiene standards. Notable achievements include serving over 200 guests per event, receiving recognition for exemplary cleanliness standards, and implementing inventory tracking systems. This catering CV template is the Columbia layout, offering a well-organised and professional format.

What to include in a catering assistant CV? 

From commercial events and coordinating culinary requirements to contributing to daily operations in hotels or events, mention menu planning, food preparation and inventory management skills.

What to include in a CV for a catering job varies depending on the job description but should detail qualifications, work experience, and achievements or courses such as the food hygiene certificate and enhanced background checks.

For optimal results, begin the CV writing process with a master CV, which helps highlight relevant areas of your professional background and tailor specific CVs to different job opportunities. Learn how to optimise your CV for applicant tracking systems (ATS) to enhance your chances of being shortlisted by recruiters.

How to write a CV for a catering assistant job in 5 steps 

1. Write the perfect catering assistant personal profile 

A well-crafted personal profile can significantly elevate your CV. This section introduces your skills, experiences, and unique attributes. Keep your summary concise, impactful, and tailored to the specific role you're pursuing. Focus on effectively communicating your career goals and dedication to customer service. Highlight any relevant skills and achievements that will help you stand out.

Examples of personal profiles on a catering assistant CV

Check out our personal profile blog for top examples and expert tips.

2. Essential skills for a catering assistant CV 

Catering goes beyond food preparation; it demands seamless teamwork in both kitchens and front-of-house operations to ensure efficient event execution, ultimately driving increased sales. An assistant contributes to the overall success of settings in various industries, from music and film events to corporate and hospitality establishments.

Interpersonal skills are crucial in collaborating with team members and managers, understanding client preferences, and delivering exceptional service. Suppose you’re a supervisor planning menus, budgeting, resolving complaints, or managing inventory, or a kitchen assistant ensuring food safety compliance and efficiency, you must showcase both hard and soft skills on your CV.

Here are five top soft skills to include:

• Communication

• Customer service

• Business management

• Adaptability and flexibility

• Collaboration.

Hard skills:

• Food preparation

• Food safety knowledge

• Kitchen operation

• Menu planning

• Inventory management

• Event coordination.

This role often requires no prior work experience, so for recent school leavers or those recently transitioning careers, utilise transferable skills. 

For more ideas, explore how to list skills on a CV. 

3. Showcase your work experience 

Opportunities vary in diverse settings, from restaurants and bars to schools, colleges, and external suppliers. Highlighting customer-centric work experience, even from part-time or seasonal jobs is crucial for demonstrating your practical skills and industry-specific knowledge. If you have no experience, consider exploring roles like waitressing or bartending to gain valuable insights into the hospitality sector. Tailor each work experience entry by using action verbs like "supported," "maintained," or "collaborated" to convey your specific contributions and achievements in a kitchen setting. 

Work experience catering CV examples

Catering Assistant, Savoury Bites, Manchester | 2020 - Present

Dynamic and detail-orientated Catering Assistant with a passion for delivering exceptional service. Assisting in the preparation and presentation of diverse food items for events and functions. Collaborating with culinary teams to maintain cleanliness and adhere to hygiene standards. Demonstrating excellent communication skills and attention to detail in a fast-paced hospitality environment.

• Contributed to the seamless execution of events by ensuring accurate food preparation and timely service, resulting in positive feedback from clients.

• Handled cash transactions and operated the till, showcasing accuracy and customer service excellence.

Catering Manager, Delicious Events, Birmingham, 2018 - Present

Experienced Catering Manager with a proven track record in overseeing event and restaurant operations. Leading recruitment, training, and management of staff to ensure efficient service. Responsible for financial planning, budget management, and stock control. Prioritising food hygiene and safety regulations to deliver high-quality service to clients.

• Streamlined operational processes, resulting in a 20% increase in overall efficiency and reduced staff turnover.

• Negotiated contracts with suppliers, achieving a 15% reduction in costs and contributing to improved financial performance.

Catering Supervisor, Tasty Caterers, Leeds, 2019 - Present

Motivated Catering Supervisor with strong organisational skills in managing teams and coordinating shifts. Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations and meeting customer service standards. Supervising daily operations to maintain service quality and cater for diverse dietary needs.

• Implemented a new shift scheduling system, leading to a 25% reduction in scheduling conflicts and improved team coordination.

• Received positive feedback from customers on service quality, contributing to a 15% increase in customer satisfaction.

Catering Assistant CV example without experience:

Cleaner, SuperGrocery, Birmingham, 2022 - Present

Responsible for maintaining cleanliness and hygiene standards in a supermarket setting, ensuring a safe and pleasant environment for customers. Tasks include efficiently managing cleaning duties such as sanitising surfaces, disposing of waste, and organising storage areas. Collaborated with colleagues to achieve a tidy work environment and enhance the overall customer experience. 

• Implemented an organised cleaning schedule, resulting in a more efficient and streamlined process for maintaining hygiene standards in high-traffic areas of the supermarket.

If you’re a recent school leaver or have no experience in hospitality, leverage your passion for customer service and highlight transferable skills. If you have no hospitality or customer service experience, then mention any hands-on involvement in the daily operations of small businesses, such as a cashier or supermarket assistant. Such roles with shared responsibilities to catering demonstrate a valuable understanding of customer preferences and communication skills.

For more tips, read how to write work experience on a CV. 

4. Mention education and any relevant hospitality training 

To qualify as a catering assistant, employers typically require a basic education level, including GCSEs, perfect for those seeking entry-level jobs. A detailed overview of entry requirements is listed in this job profile. 

If you have sufficient hospitality experience writing a catering manager CV, read our blog on entering the workforce after graduating. For aspiring students seeking a managerial role, pursue an apprenticeship or degree equivalent in relevant fields like business, hotel and hospitality management or culinary arts.

Examples of formatting education

UK GCSEs 

[number] GCSEs (including Mathematics and English)

[School Name], [School Location], [Years Attended]

Stockport Academy, Manchester, UK, 2018 - 2020

6 GCSEs in grades A–C, including Mathematics, English, Food Technology and Business

Diploma

[Diploma Name] and [Level], [Institution Name], [Location], [Years Attended]

Diploma in Catering and Hospitality Level 2, Culinary Institute, Manchester, 2023

BTEC

BTEC [Level] [Qualification] in [Subject Name], [Institution Name], [ Location], [Years Attended]

BTEC Introduction to Culinary Skills Level 1, Hull College, 2022

Read our blog on how to master the education section on a CV for additional tips.

5. Add additional courses and certificates to your catering assistant CV 

In the hospitality industry, certain certifications and courses can significantly enhance your qualifications. One essential certification to include is a food and hygiene certificate showcasing your commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety in food preparation. This certification is a fundamental requirement for roles involving handling food, similar to barista or baker roles.

Examples of formatting courses

Course name, Issuer, Issued date (date of completion/in progress)

Food and Hygiene Certificate, Level 2, Reed Learning, 2022

HNC Hospitality Management, The London College, 2023

NVQ Certificate in Customer Service, Level 1, City and Guilds, 2024.

Learn more about listing relevant courses and certificates to enhance the credibility of your CV.

How to write a catering assistant CV with no experience

If you have little to no work experience, enrol in a hospitality or customer service course, use a skills-based CV to shift the focus from work experience or use a simple CV format for clarity. If you're a recent student, highlight food technology or business courses. Highlight relevant coursework or projects that demonstrate knowledge and dedication to professional development. 

Consider adding a section for references to provide potential employers with insights into your professional relationships. Include teachers or previous managers who can vouch for your work ethic, reliability, and character.  Volunteering in hospitality events or local community initiatives can also be a valuable addition. 

Consider adding hobbies and interests that align with your job targets such as participating in cooking classes or engaging in culinary pursuits outside of formal education. Pursue apprenticeships and entry-level roles like kitchen porter or cleaner, which are excellent ways to enhance your competencies in a fast-paced hospitality setting. 

Key takeaways 

Crafting a compelling CV as a catering assistant involves highlighting transferable skills, showcasing relevant training, and incorporating volunteering experiences. Emphasise a dedication to teamwork, communication, and customer service in your personal profile, adding achievements to stand out. Even if you have no hospitality experience, complete courses or apprenticeships, and complete a food hygiene certificate to demonstrate your knowledge and readiness for the role. 

Next steps? 

Consider improving your CV and increase your chance of securing a job with our expert CV writing service, perfect for those starting with no experience. Save time and the hassle of writing an application from scratch with our professionally designed CV and cover letter templates to make the best impression on recruiters. Check out our career blog and guide on interview questions to gain confidence for your ideal role.

FAQ 

What is a professional summary for a caterer? 

A professional summary should focus on the catering job description and highlight your key attributes, achievements and soft skills. Outline a brief statement dedicated to customer service and food safety and hygiene knowledge. Tailor your profile to reflect your passion for hospitality, collaborative work ethic and dedication to creating memorable culinary experiences.

How much do catering assistants make in the UK? 

The average salary is around £11 per hour. For supervisors or managerial positions, expect to earn £20,000 to £34,000 a year, but this varies on location and the hiring company.

Is a catering assistant a good job? 

Yes, this can be a rewarding and fulfilling job, especially for individuals who enjoy working in dynamic and fast-paced environments such as restaurants, schools, healthcare, or event venues. This entry-level role offers practical opportunities for aspiring individuals to develop transferable skills in food preparation, customer service, hospitality, and event coordination. Take advantage of busier periods such as summer holidays, wedding season and Christmas. There are lots of seasonal work opportunities for catering assistants across the UK.

How do I become a kitchen assistant?

Start by applying for entry-level kitchen assistant positions. These roles often require little to no work experience. Having a basic education, including GCSEs or equivalent qualifications, is beneficial. Consider taking courses or certifications related to hospitality, food hygiene, or kitchen operations. Or, apprenticeships such as Hospitality Manager Level 4 or Hospitality Supervisor Level 3 will be beneficial.

What is the best CV format in the UK for a catering assistant CV?

Opt for a concise and clear format that effectively communicates your qualifications and skills, ensuring your CV is well-organised and easy to read. For those with work experience, structure your CV using a chronological format to list recent jobs first. Otherwise, use a simple or skills-based CV if you have little to no work experience to leverage your key competencies.