Bento Maker (Bento Caterer)
べんとうせいぞうにん（べんとうしだしや）
Industry & Occupation
Classification
- Major : Service Occupations
- Middle : Food Preparation Occupations
- Minor : Other Food Preparation Occupations
Summary
A profession that handles mass cooking of catering bentos from preparation to plating, packaging, and delivery.
Description
Bento makers (bento caterers) specialize in mass cooking and processing of catering bentos and bentos for companies and school lunches. They efficiently handle ingredient procurement and preprocessing, cooking, seasoning, plating, and packaging, while thoroughly managing hygiene (HACCP) and quality control to provide safe and delicious bentos. Important tasks also include production planning aligned with delivery schedules, cost management, and menu proposals discussed with customers.
Future Outlook
Demand for catering bentos remains stable due to aging population and increasing dual-income households. Product development is required to meet health-conscious trends, individual meal preferences, and time-saving needs.
Personality Traits
Work Style
Career Path
Assistant Chief → Manufacturing Supervisor → Factory Manager → Business Manager → Independent Business
Required Skills
Hygiene Management (HACCP) / Ingredient Preprocessing / Mass Cooking / Plating / Time Management
Recommended Skills
Cost Calculation / Customer Service / Ingredient Management / Menu Development
Aptitudes (Strengths Preferred)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Attention to Detail & Accuracy | To maintain hygiene management and plating quality. |
| Physical Stamina & Endurance | Due to long hours of standing work and handling heavy items. |
| Planning & Organization | Necessary to create production plans according to delivery times and large orders. |
| Stress Tolerance | Necessary to cope with time constraints and pressure during mass cooking. |
| Collaboration & Teamwork | Because collaboration in the kitchen is essential. |
Aptitudes (Weaknesses Acceptable)
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Numerical & Quantitative Analysis | Mainly simple quantity management, no need for advanced calculations. |
Related Qualifications
- Cooking License
- Food Hygiene Supervisor
Aliases
- Bento Chef
- Catering Bento Provider
Related Jobs
- Cook
- Prepared Food Maker
- School Lunch Cook