Paid Event & Catering Intern (Semester Internship)

Paid Event & Catering Intern (Semester Internship)

San Chez Restaurants | Grand Rapids, MI

Are you interested in event planning, hospitality, catering, sales, marketing, or restaurant management? San Chez Restaurants is seeking an enthusiastic and detail-oriented Paid Event & Catering Intern to join our Events Department for a semester-long internship.

This paid internship provides hands-on experience in private events, catering sales, client relations, event operations, and hospitality marketing. The position is designed to align with the intern's educational goals, experience level, and academic program requirements while providing real-world exposure to the fast-paced food and beverage industry.

The internship is intended to run through the duration of one academic semester, with opportunities for continued employment with San Chez Restaurants in another role based on performance, business needs, and mutual interest.

Position Overview

The Event & Catering Intern will work directly with the Events Manager to support private events, catering operations, and venue sales. This position is ideal for students pursuing degrees in Hospitality Management, Event Management, Marketing, Communications, Business, Public Relations, or related fields.

Interns can expect a blend of administrative, sales, marketing, operational, and event-day responsibilities designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the event planning process from inquiry to execution.

Compensation

• Starting pay: $19.00 per hour
• 90-day performance review with the opportunity for a wage increase

Schedule

• Up to 16 office hours per week supporting the Events Department
• Additional scheduled shifts as a Host and/or Sales Support team member
• Opportunities to assist with off-site catering and Ballroom events as business needs arise (these hours are in addition to scheduled office and host/sales support shifts)

Learning Opportunities

Interns will gain experience in:

• Event sales and client communication
• Food and beverage catering operations
• Venue tours and event consultations
• Hospitality Event Planning Software (Tripleseat, Toast Tables, Toast, Canva)
• Contract administration and event documentation
• Event logistics and planning
• Event execution and on-site coordination
• Hospitality marketing and social media support
• Customer service and guest relations
• Restaurant operations and event management

Responsibilities

Depending on experience and learning goals, responsibilities may include:

Event Sales & Administration

• Responding to event inquiries via phone and email
• Assisting with client communication and follow-up
• Conducting venue tours and answering event-related questions
• Reviewing contracts and collecting deposits
• Creating and updating event proposals
• Preparing Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and kitchen production sheets
• Coordinating event timelines and logistics
• Tracking tasks and maintaining event records
• Providing administrative support to the Events Department

Marketing & Communications

• Assisting with marketing materials using Canva
• Supporting social media and promotional efforts
• Assisting with event flyers, brochures, and sales collateral
• Assist with social media content
• Photograph events and menu items for promotional use
• Support email marketing campaigns

On-Site Event Experience

• Assisting with event setup and room preparation
• Greeting hosts and serving as an on-site point of contact
• Ringing in pre-planned parties and event orders
• Answering guest and client questions throughout events
• Facilitating communication between the kitchen, service team, and event host
• Monitoring food flow and timing to ensure smooth service
• Assisting with buffet setup and replenishment when applicable
• Supporting event service and guest experience throughout the event
• Assisting with event breakdown and post-event follow-up
• Observe and learn event management best practices in real time
• Assist with event décor and final room presentation
• Troubleshoot day-of event needs
• Observe client consultations and planning meetings

Additional Restaurant Experience

To provide a well-rounded understanding of hospitality operations, interns will also spend time supporting front-of-house operations as a Host or Sales Support team member. This hands-on experience helps build a deeper understanding of guest service, restaurant flow, and event execution.

Interns may also have opportunities to assist with off-site catering events and private Ballroom events, gaining additional experience with large-scale event logistics, catering operations, and venue management.

Qualifications

Preferred qualifications include:

• Current enrollment in a college or university program
• Interest in hospitality, events, catering, marketing, or business
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines
• Professional and positive attitude
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace
• Experience with Canva or willingness to learn
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team

What We're Looking For

The ideal candidate is curious, organized, dependable, and excited to learn. We value individuals who enjoy building relationships, solving problems, and creating memorable guest experiences.

At San Chez, events are more than reservations—they are celebrations, milestones, and meaningful moments. We're looking for someone who is excited to be part of bringing those experiences to life.

To Apply

Please submit your resume and a brief statement describing your interest in hospitality, events, catering, or restaurant management. We look forward to meeting passionate individuals who are eager to grow their careers in the hospitality industry.