Catering Manager at The Tamale Spaceship

Tamale Spaceship

Pilsen, Chicago | Full-Time | In-Person

Tamale Spaceship is a full-service Mexican street food catering company known for bringing bold flavors, creativity, and hospitality to every celebration. From weddings and fundraisers to private parties and galas, our team delivers an authentic experience — complete with full bar service, professional staff, and the warmth of Mexican culture.

We’re looking for a Private Events & Catering Manager who is passionate about food, events, and building relationships. The ideal candidate is personable, organized, and driven — someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and loves creating memorable experiences from start to finish.

As our Private Events & Catering Manager, you’ll lead the sales, planning, and execution of events across Chicago and beyond. You’ll build strong client relationships, grow our event portfolio, and work closely with our culinary and operations teams to bring each celebration to life.

Sales & Business Development

• Proactively sell and manage social and corporate catering events
• Develop and implement strategies to meet or exceed revenue goals
• Respond to new leads via email, phone, and event platforms (Zola, website forms) within 24–48 hours
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities through networking and outreach
• Represent Tamale Spaceship at industry events, trade shows, and community functions

Client Relationship Management

• Build lasting client relationships that generate repeat business and referrals
• Conduct site visits, tastings, and venue’s final walkthroughs
• Prepare detailed proposals and negotiate contracts with professionalism
• Provide trusted vendor recommendations and guide clients through each stage of planning

Event Planning & Coordination

• Manage the full event flow: inquiry → proposal → contract → planning → execution → follow-up
• Coordinate with culinary, bar, and event teams to ensure seamless communication and service
• Oversee event logistics, staffing, rentals, and timelines
• Provide on-site support during key events to ensure client satisfaction

Administrative

• Maintain accurate records of client communications and event details
• Track sales activities and maintain client databases
• Finalize sales and invoices weekly/monthly and liaise with the accounting team
• Stay current on industry trends and competitor offerings

• 2+ years of experience in catering, hospitality, or event sales management
• Spanish-speaking skills preferred but not required
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Exceptional organization and attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines gracefully
• Proficiency in Google Suite & Toast; experience with TripleSeat or other event software is a plus
• Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends when required.
• Genuine passion for Mexican cuisine, culture, and hospitality

• Join a passionate, community-driven team in Chicago’s vibrant Pilsen neighborhood
• Be part of a brand known for authentic Mexican street food, creative presentation, and exceptional service
• Enjoy a collaborative, hands-on environment where your ideas and initiative are valued

• $25–$30 per hour, based on experience
• This is an on-site & full-time position (40 hours per week | Monday - Friday); no overtime allowed
  
• 1 week of paid vacation after one year of employment
• 4 paid holidays each year (4th of July, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve)
• Free daily meals
• Opportunities for growth within a creative and hospitality-driven team