FULL TIME CATERING SERVICE LEAD
Send your resume and a short note to seana@fat-rabbit.ca
Who We Are
Fat Rabbit is a Michelin Recommended restaurant and whole animal butcher shop based in St. Catharines. We partner with small ethical farms, practise zero waste butchery, and execute premium catering experiences across Niagara and the GTA. We are hiring a Service Lead on contract for the 2026 event season.
Role Overview
The Service Lead is the on site operational authority and primary point of contact during events. You are first to arrive and last to leave, leading by example and maintaining control of service from load in through pack out. You direct service staff, manage hired and temporary support, and ensure the event runs in alignment with the agreed service model. You understand event agreements, scope of work, and deliverables, and confidently hold boundaries to protect standards and timelines.
You are not a full service planner, but you collaborate professionally with planners, venues, rental partners, and other vendors to ensure seamless execution and an elevated client experience. You review service documentation, stay current on event communications, familiarize yourself with client agreements, and arrive fully prepared with a clear understanding of format and expectations.
Team Expectations
Our back of house team carries a significant physical and operational load at every event. Equipment, fire, timing, and execution demand energy and discipline. We expect our Service Lead to match that effort with equal commitment and respect. Leadership includes physical contribution. We operate as one team. FOH and BOH support one another at every stage of an event.
Physical Requirements and Essential Duties
- Ability to work extended shifts, often 10+ hours at times
- Comfortable being on your feet for the majority of the day
- Comfortable working outdoors in varied weather conditions
- Able to repeatedly lift and carry heavy equipment, rental crates, tables, grills, and service gear
- Willing and able to actively participate in load in and load out, including navigating uneven terrain such as vineyards, farms, and private properties
- Candidates must be able to perform the essential duties of this role, with or without reasonable accommodation
Key Responsibilities
- Lead FOH team on site
- Serve as liaison between Fat Rabbit and external partners
- Execute and supervise plated, family style, tasting menu, and canapé service
- Oversee service timelines and course flow
- Review agreements and uphold scope of work
- Lead pre shift briefings
- Manage load in, layout, and breakdown
- Maintain service standards and guest experience
- Document post event notes and operational feedback
Skills and Experience
- Minimum 5 years of progressive hospitality experience with significant event exposure
- At least 3 years in a leadership role overseeing service teams
- Strong food and wine background
- Deep understanding of various service models
- Experience leading teams in high pressure environments
- Comfortable managing temporary and contract staff
- Ability to interpret agreements and enforce boundaries professionally
- Confident communicator with strong situational awareness
- Highly organized and detail driven
- Valid driver’s licence and Smart Serve certification required
Who You Are
You are grounded, disciplined, and steady under pressure. You know when to lead with seriousness and when to bring warmth to a room. We are entrusted with once in a lifetime experiences. That demands professionalism, emotional intelligence, and composure when things do not go to plan. You can hold the line when needed, read the room instinctively, and contribute positively to the energy of the team. If that balance does not come naturally, this is not the right role.
Contract Term
This is a contract position running May through December 2026. Extension beyond December may be available depending on seasonal demand and performance. Weekend availability, including Fridays, is mandatory throughout the contract period.
Compensation is competitive and based on experience. Compensation to begin at $25.00 per hour or an equivalent prorated salary for the contract term, based on experience. Due to the seasonal nature of the role, weekly hours will vary based on event volume, with heavier and lighter weeks anticipated. Scheduling will align accordingly. Gratuity participation applies for eligible events.
To Apply
Send your resume to seana@fat-rabbit.ca, and a short note outlining your leadership background and event experience and why you are a strong fit. Applications submitted without a note/cover letter will not be considered.