Catering: Education and Job Training Requirements for Becoming a Professional Caterer

Catering Career Summary

Professional Caterers supply mobile food services for events like weddings, banquets and corporate meetings. Many Catering professionals also supply rentable serving equipment and a wait staff. Most Caterers have a career history in food service, including, but not limited to, experience as chefs, cooks or other food preparation workers.

Catering professionals may work for a restaurant, event venue or private company or be self-employed, working from home or another small business setting. Catering is a popular career choice for restaurant chefs who decide to go into business for themselves.

Education Required to Become a Caterer

Professional Caterers typically have the same education requirements as chefs, cooks and other food preparation workers. In general, no formal education is required for a career in the food service industry, and much of the knowledge and skill required of Catering professionals is gained on the job. It's recommended that aspiring Caterers have a minimum of a high school diploma. Several culinary arts degree and certificate programs are available, particularly at community colleges and career training schools.

Job Training and Certifications Required to Become a Caterer

Before opening a business or moving into a Catering director's position, you should have a great deal of experience in food preparation techniques and sanitation precautions. You should also be skilled in cooking and food presentation. Self-employed Caterers need basic business and management knowledge and may benefit from a formal education in those areas.

Self-employed Caterers must secure a Catering license and any other permits needed to serve food and/or alcohol to the public. Such documents are issued by various state regulating agencies, including alcoholic beverage control boards and health commissions. Requirements differ by state.

Caterers also can pursue voluntary recognition as a Certified Professional Catering Executive (CPCE) through the National Association of Catering Executives, www.nace.net. To achieve certification, a Caterer must pass a competency exam covering seven core areas of Catering, including contracts and agreements, accounting, food production and event management.