Karen Contreras
El Paso,TX
Summary
Driven by a results-focused approach, I leveraged strong communication skills and stress tolerance at Sodexo Campus Services to enhance guest experiences and streamline event operations. Fluent in Spanish, I excelled in guest relations and equipment management, significantly contributing to the team's success and efficiency in high-pressure environments. Performance-driving leader adept at aligning cross-departmental objectives to facilitate high-quality, on-time productions and long-term customer loyalty. Creative and innovative problem-solver exercises key strengths in workflow optimization, process re-engineering and strategic scheduling techniques. Offers track record of delivering superior-quality results for industry-leading publication conglomerates.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Stagehand Supervisor
Utep-Office Of Special Events
08.2006 - Current
- Collaborated with stage managers, directors, and other team members to create visually appealing and functional stage environments
- Enhanced stage production quality by efficiently setting up and breaking down sets, lighting, and sound equipment
- Stored, loaded and unloaded set pieces and technical equipment for daily performances
- Contributed to the successful execution of various shows by maintaining a safe and clean backstage area
- Increased efficiency in stage setup by organizing tools, materials, and equipment for easy access during productions
- Troubleshot technical issues with lighting and sound systems to prevent delays or disruptions during shows
- Stayed alert, active, and ready to respond to any request at any time using a variety of available resources
- Supported game day operations, facilitating the smooth execution of events and enhancing the overall fan experience
- Maintained cleanliness of athletic facilities, upholding high standards for hygiene and presentation across all venues
- Collaborated with security personnel to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests during events
- Managed ticket scanning duties, verifying valid entry access for each attendee and preventing unauthorized entries
- Surveilled the venue to verify guest adherence to safety rules
- Maintained a safe work environment by strictly adhering to established safety protocols and guidelines
- Completed complex repairs quickly by leveraging strong diagnostic skills and attention to detail.
- Provided exceptional guest service, answering questions about the venue and directing patrons to their seats.
- Participated in pre-event briefings, staying informed about specific event requirements and expectations.
- Aided in the help of checking guest when entering venues checking there bags before and informing of any items that where not allowed.
Catering Server
Sodexo Campus Services
05.2014 - Current
- Assisted in event setup and teardown, ensuring a smooth transition between functions
- Provided friendly, courteous service to create memorable moments for guests
- Presented food and beverages on buffet tables and drink stations in line with formality and specifications of each event
- Enhanced guest experience by providing exceptional service during catered events
- Worked with catering staff to establish timely preparation and delivery of food and beverage orders
- Contributed to team success by cross-training in various roles such as bartender, server assistant, when necessary
- Sanitized tableware and chafing dishes before catering event to avoid infection and comply with hygiene standards
- Upheld the company's reputation for excellence by adhering to established service standards while continually seeking opportunities for improvement in personal performance
- Managed inventory and restocked supplies, ensuring smooth operation during busy events
- Adhered to local liquor laws and guidelines when serving alcoholic beverages, ensuring compliance with regulations at all times
- Utilized expert knowledge of mixology trends to craft innovative cocktail options that garnered positive feedback from clients
- Provided friendly and engaging customer service, fostering an enjoyable atmosphere for guests at various events
- Worked closely with teammates to provide seamless service during complex or large-scale catering events
- Assisted in the setup and breakdown of bar stations, facilitating efficient transitions between different functions
- Implemented proper cash handling procedures, accurately processing transactions and minimizing discrepancies in end-of-shift reconciliations
- Cultivated strong relationships with repeat customers, engaging in friendly conversation and memorizing drink orders to promote loyalty
- Verified drinking age requirements of customers by carefully reviewing photo identification.
Census Enumerator
US Census Bureau
07.2020 - 12.2020
- Visited assigned neighborhoods and knocked on doors to encourage participation in Census.
- Interviewed residents in assigned areas to explain purpose of Census, ask questions and record answers.
- Met with supervisor to review procedures, report issues or concerns and receive instructions.
- Maintained strict confidentiality with sensitive personal information, ensuring compliance with federal regulations.
- Utilized strong communication skills for navigating language barriers and cultural differences among respondents.
- Ensured accurate geographic coverage by thoroughly reviewing maps and address listings before beginning enumeration activities.
- Utilized various technologies, such as handheld devices and mapping software, streamlining enumeration processes and improving overall efficiency.
- Demonstrated excellent time management skills while adhering to strict deadlines for submitting completed questionnaires.
- Maintained and submitted records of hours worked, miles driven and expenses incurred to facilitate accurate reporting measures.
- Identified hard-to-reach populations and developed targeted strategies, enhancing the inclusivity of census data collection efforts.
Ticket Seller
University Of Texas At El Paso Ticket Center
08.2009 - 12.2013
- Adapted quickly to changes in event schedules or ticket availability, ensuring that customers received accurate and up-to-date information at all times
- Handled cash transactions securely while maintaining an accurate record of all financial activities within the box office
- Worked collaboratively with coworkers during busy periods to provide seamless support across multiple areas of operation
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing accurate and timely information on ticket prices, seating options, and event details
- Collaborated with team members to manage customer flow during peak times effectively
- Handled high-volume ticket sales with precision and accuracy, ensuring a positive experience for all patrons
- Utilized specialized software programs for processing ticket orders accurately and efficiently
- Maintained up-to-date knowledge of venue policies, procedures, and upcoming events to provide informed recommendations to customers
- Ensured compliance with all applicable regulations governing ticket sales, refunds, and exchanges
- Assisted in resolving customer issues or concerns promptly and professionally
- Sold, printed, and issued tickets to guests.
Student Assistant
College Of Health Sciences
05.2008 - 08.2013
- Provided excellent customer service to students and staff at the front desk, addressing inquiries and concerns promptly
- Greeted incoming office visitors, answered questions, and directed individuals to office locations
- Collaborated with team members on various projects, contributing to their timely completion and overall success
- Coordinated meetings for faculty members, confirming schedules and preparing necessary materials in advance
- Managed daily data entry and kept clerical information accurate and up-to-date
- Enhanced office efficiency by organizing and maintaining files, records, and resources
- Helped with administrative support by managing incoming calls, coordinating files, and sorting mail
- Assisted with the MHIRT program.
Work Study Student
University Of Texas At El Paso
08.2006 - 08.2008
- Contributed to a positive work environment by maintaining strong relationships with peers, supervisors, and students
- Interacted respectfully with others to offer ideas, identify issues, and provide assistance
- Collaborated with staff members to guarantee students received the best possible customer service
- Collaborated with team members on various tasks, demonstrating adaptability and flexibility in different work situations
- Greeted incoming office visitors, answered questions, and directed individuals to office locations
- Helped create and maintain spreadsheets to track financial records and other data
- Completed various data entry tasks accurately and efficiently, contributing to overall office productivity
- Provided administrative support to staff members, improving office efficiency and organization.
Student Intern
GECU
02.2006 - 04.2006
- Worked effectively in fast-paced environments
- Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members
- Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement
- Paid attention to detail while completing assignments
- Implemented a variety of teaching methods during training sessions to accommodate different learning styles among bank operations.
Education
Bachelor of Business Administration - Accounting And Marketing
The University of Texas At El Paso
El Paso, TX05.2026
High School Diploma, Completed AP course in Math, Completed AP course in English -
Americas High School
El Paso, TX05.2006
Skills
- Stress Tolerance
- Guest service
- Strong Communication Skills
- Cleaning and sanitizing
- Exceptional customer service
- Event Setup and Breakdown
- Equipment management
- Guest Relations
- Time Management
- Fluent in Spanish
- Crowd control techniques
- Customer Relations
Timeline
Census Enumerator
US Census Bureau
07.2020 - 12.2020
Catering Server
Sodexo Campus Services
05.2014 - Current
Ticket Seller
University Of Texas At El Paso Ticket Center
08.2009 - 12.2013
Student Assistant
College Of Health Sciences
05.2008 - 08.2013
Stagehand Supervisor
Utep-Office Of Special Events
08.2006 - Current
Work Study Student
University Of Texas At El Paso
08.2006 - 08.2008
Student Intern
GECU
02.2006 - 04.2006
Bachelor of Business Administration - Accounting And Marketing
The University of Texas At El Paso
High School Diploma, Completed AP course in Math, Completed AP course in English -
Americas High School
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