Waiter Job Description
Comprehensive waiter job description. The job of a waiter or waitress includes a wide range of tasks and duties that vary according to the type of
employer. However, there are a number of generic activities and responsibilities that are core to the
job.
These frontline staff are key to the success of a restaurant business as they are responsible for meeting the customers' needs and expectations. The job and competency requirements for a waiter position are largely standard throughout the hospitality industry.
Adapt this sample job description for waiter jobs to suit the job you are specifying.
WAITER JOB DESCRIPTION
General Purpose
To accurately and completely take food and beverage orders, efficiently serve food and
beverages to customers and attend to customers' needs.
Main Job Tasks, Duties and Responsibilities
- greet customers politely as they enter the restaurant
- introduce self to customers
- show customers to their tables
- present menus to customers
- maintain an up-to-date working knowledge of the menu items and daily specials
- explain the menu items in terms of preparation, ingredients and presentation
- be aware of allergy information on menu items
- answer inquiries about food and beverage items on the menu
- offer food and wine suggestions
- inform customers of special items not listed on the menu
- take food and beverage orders accurately including any special requests
- check customer's identification to ensure they meet alcohol legal age requirements
- check food orders with customers to ensure correctness
- input the order into POS System
- work with bartenders to fill beverage orders
- work with kitchen staff to process and expedite food orders
- pre-set table for the orders
- deliver and serve food at tables
- use established food handling and serving techniques
- ensure customers are satisfied with their food orders, beverages and service
- upsell food and beverage items throughout the meal
- monitor customer's needs and promptly handle requests
- handle customer complaints in a polite and professional manner
- maintain the table setting by clearing courses as completed, replacing utensils, refreshing water glasses, dealing with spills
- prepare and provide customers with accurate check for the meal
- process cash and credit card payments
- Prepare to-go boxes for customers
- re-set and prepare table for customers including decorations, condiments, napkins, utensils
- maintain a clean and organized service area
- dispose of trash according to established procedures
- perform any side-work as requested
- comply with safety, health and hygiene policies and procedures
Knowledge and Experience
- High School Diploma preferred
- meet state age requirements to serve alcohol
- knowledge of hygiene and sanitation standards
- knowledge of food and health codes
- working knowledge of beer, wine, liquor and common beverages
- working knowledge of food preparation
- knowledge of state liquor laws
- able to fluently read and speak relevant language
- flexible and willing to work different schedules
- able to lift and move up to 30 pounds
- able to stand for long periods of time
Key Skills and Competencies
- customer service
- communication skills
- numeracy skills
- ability to multi-task
- adaptability and appreciation of diversity
- team work
- accuracy and attention to detail
- stress tolerance
- reliability
- honesty and integrity
- sense of urgency
- high energy level
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