Operations Associate

Job Title: Operations Associate
Company: Critics Choice Catering / Palm Court Café
Location: Gardena, CA
Schedule: Approximately 35 hours per week
Pay: $18–$20 per hour, based on experience

About Us

Critics Choice Catering has proudly served the South Bay community for decades, providing high-quality catering for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. In addition to our catering operations, we run the Palm Court Café, a neighborhood café known for fresh food, great coffee, and welcoming service.

We’re looking for a dependable Operations Associate who enjoys working in a fast-paced hospitality environment and is willing to help wherever the team needs support.

Job Summary

The Operations Associate is a versatile team member who supports daily operations across several areas of the business. This role rotates between the Palm Court Café, catering kitchen, and warehouse, helping with food service, kitchen support, inventory organization, and event preparation.

This is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys variety in their work and wants to gain experience across multiple parts of a hospitality business.

Key Responsibilities

Café Support

• Greet guests and provide friendly, welcoming service
• Operate the POS system and handle cash and card transactions
• Prepare coffee drinks and simple menu items
• Package to-go orders and assist with food service
• Keep the counter, dining area, and workstations clean and organized
• Restock beverages, chips, paper goods, and café supplies

Kitchen Support

• Assist with basic food prep and plating when needed
• Support the kitchen team with packaging catering orders
• Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen
• Follow all food safety and sanitation standards

Warehouse & Event Support

• Help organize inventory, supplies, and equipment in the warehouse
• Assist with packing catering orders and event equipment
• Support loading and unloading catering supplies when needed
• Maintain organization of disposables, serving pieces, and event supplies

Qualifications

• Previous café, restaurant, catering, or hospitality experience preferred
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment
• Strong work ethic and willingness to help wherever needed
• Friendly, professional attitude with guests and coworkers
• Organized and able to follow systems and procedures
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for someone who is dependable, positive, and enjoys being part of a team. The ideal candidate is comfortable wearing multiple hats and takes pride in helping keep operations running smoothly.

Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Work Location: In person