Waiter/Waitress Job Description Template
Use this Waiter/Waitress 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 skilled Waiter or Waitress to take orders and deliver food and beverages to our customers.
The right Waiter/Waitress uplifts the dining experience for customers. We are looking for someone who will have the patience, personality and perseverance to thrive in this role.
Waiter/Waitress responsibilities include greeting and serving customers, providing detailed information on menus, multi-tasking various front-of-the-house duties and collecting the bill. If you are able to perform well in fast-paced environments, we’d like to meet you. To be a successful Waiter or Waitress, you should be polite with our customers and make sure they enjoy their meals. You should also be a team player and be able to effectively communicate with our Kitchen Staff to make sure orders are accurate and delivered promptly.
Keep in mind that Waiter/Waitress duties may require working in shifts and/or occasionally during weekends and holidays.
Ultimately, it is the duty of our Waiters/Waitresses to provide an excellent overall dining experience for our guests.
Responsibilities
- Greet and escort customers to their tables
- Present menu and provide detailed information when asked (e.g. about portions, ingredients or potential food allergies)
- Prepare tables by setting up linens, silverware and glasses
- Inform customers about the day’s specials
- Offer menu recommendations upon request
- Up-sell additional products when appropriate
- Take accurate food and drinks orders, using a POS ordering software,order slips or by memorization
- Check customers’ IDs to ensure they meet minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages
- Communicate order details to the Kitchen Staff
- Serve food and drink orders
- Check dishes and kitchenware for cleanliness and presentation and report any problems
- Arrange table settings and maintain a tidy dining area
- Deliver checks and collect bill payments
- Carry dirty plates, glasses and silverware to kitchen for cleaning
- Meet with restaurant staff to review daily specials, changes on the menu and service specifications for reservations (e.g. parties)
- Follow all relevant health department regulations
- Provide excellent customer service to guests
Requirements
- Proven work experience as a Waiter or Waitress
- Hands-on experience with cash register and ordering information system (e.g. Revel POS or Toast POS)
- Basic math skills
- Attentiveness and patience for customers
- Excellent presentation skills
- Strong organizational and multitasking skills, with the ability to perform well in a fast-paced environment
- Active listening and effective communication skills
- Team spirit
- Flexibility to work in shifts
- High school diploma; food safety training is a plus
What does Waiter/Waitress do?
A waiter/waitress is responsible for providing excellent customer service in a restaurant setting. Here's a rundown of what they typically do on a day-to-day basis:
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Greeting and seating customers: When customers enter the restaurant, waiters/waitresses warmly welcome and escort them to an available table, ensuring their comfort.
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Taking orders: Waiters/waitresses provide menus, take food and beverage orders, and answer any questions customers may have about the menu items.
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Serving food and beverages: Once the orders are placed with the kitchen, the waiter/waitress serves the food and beverages to the customers, ensuring accuracy and presentation.
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Checking on customers: Throughout their meals, waiters/waitresses regularly check on the customers to ensure they are satisfied with their meals, refill drinks, and address any concerns or additional needs.
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Processing payments: At the end of the meal, waiters/waitresses present the bill to the customers, handle cash or card payments, and provide any necessary change or receipts.
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Cleaning and setting up tables: After customers leave, waiters/waitresses clean and sanitize the tables, chairs, and surrounding areas to prepare them for the next guests.
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Collaborating with kitchen staff: Waiters/waitresses work closely with the kitchen staff to ensure that the correct meals are prepared and delivered promptly.
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Handling customer complaints: If a customer has an issue with their order or service, waiters/waitresses should handle the complaint professionally, resolve any concerns, and report feedback to the management if necessary.
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Upselling and suggesting additional items: Waiters/waitresses may recommend additional menu items, appetizers, desserts, or special promotions to enhance the dining experience and increase sales.
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Participating in training and meetings: In some cases, waiters/waitresses may attend training sessions or team meetings to improve their skills, stay updated on menu changes, or discuss any operational issues.
Overall, waiters/waitresses play a crucial role in providing a positive dining experience and ensuring customer satisfaction.