Food Runner Job Description Template

Use this Food Runner job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.

Job Brief

We are looking for a Food Runner to join our team and facilitate collaboration between our kitchen and wait staff.

Food Runner responsibilities include setting tables, serving food orders and removing used dishes and utensils. If you’d like to gain experience in the restaurant industry and learn how to provide an excellent dining experience, we’d like to meet you. To be considered for this role, you should be available to work various shifts, including weekends.

Ultimately, you will ensure our guests have a high-quality dining experience by serving their food in a timely and accurate manner.

Responsibilities

  • Deliver food orders from the kitchen to customers’ tables rapidly and accurately
  • Act as the contact point between Front of the House and Back of the House staff
  • Communicate food orders to chefs, paying attention to priorities and special requests (e.g. food allergies)
  • Assist the wait staff with table setting by fetching and placing appropriate tableware, eating utensils and napkins
  • Serve welcome drinks and hors d’oeuvres, upon guests’ arrival
  • Ensure food is served in accordance with safety standards (e.g. proper temperature)
  • Check in with customers and take additional orders or refill water, as needed
  • Remove dirty dishes and utensils
  • Answer guests’ questions about ingredients and menu items
  • Inform restaurant staff about customers’ feedback or requests (e.g. when they ask for the check)
  • Make sure families with young children get kids menus and special silverware sets

Requirements

  • Experience as a Food Expeditor or similar entry-level role in a restaurant
  • Understanding of hygiene and food safety rules
  • Physical ability and stamina to carry heavy trays and stand for long hours
  • Availability to work various shifts, including weekends
  • Multi-tasking abilities
  • Good oral communication skills
  • Ability to remain calm and professional in a fast-paced work environment
  • Degree in hospitality or restaurant management is a plus

What does Food Runner do?

A food runner typically works in a restaurant, assisting the waitstaff and kitchen staff. On a day-to-day basis, their responsibilities may include:

  1. Setting up the dining area: They may help set tables, arrange menus, and ensure that the dining area is clean and presentable.

  2. Assisting with food preparation: Food runners may help the kitchen staff with basic food preparation tasks, such as slicing bread, garnishing dishes, or assembling appetizers.

  3. Delivering food: Once dishes are prepared, a food runner is responsible for delivering the food to the correct tables in a timely manner. They ensure that the food is presented well and that any special requests or dietary requirements are met.

  4. Clearing tables: After guests finish their meals, the food runner clears the tables, removes used dishes, glassware, and silverware, and resets them for the next guests.

  5. Assisting with beverage service: Food runners may also assist the waitstaff in serving beverages to guests, including water, coffee, or alcoholic beverages.

  6. Communicating with the kitchen and waitstaff: They act as a liaison between the kitchen and waitstaff, relaying important information such as orders, special requests, or any customer feedback.

  7. Re-stocking supplies: Food runners may be responsible for restocking essential supplies such as napkins, condiments, or utensils during the shift, ensuring that the waitstaff has everything they need to serve guests efficiently.

Overall, the role of a food runner is to provide support to both the kitchen and waitstaff, ensuring smooth service and a positive dining experience for guests.