Food and Beverage Runner Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of hospitality, the role of Food and Beverage Runners is becoming increasingly prominent.

The culinary industry is constantly evolving, and with every shift, the demand for efficient individuals who can effectively manage, deliver, and uphold our food and beverage standards grows.

So, what’s truly expected from a Food and Beverage Runner?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the crux of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply interested in the behind-the-scenes of food and beverage operations,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Food and Beverage Runner job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Food and Beverage Runner Duties and Responsibilities

Food and Beverage Runners play a critical role in the hospitality industry, ensuring that all food and beverages are delivered to the customers promptly and efficiently.

This role may involve working in a variety of environments such as restaurants, hotels, and event venues.

The daily duties and responsibilities of a Food and Beverage Runner include:

• Coordinate with kitchen and bar staff to ensure proper timing of food and beverage preparation
• Deliver food and beverages from the kitchen and bar to the customers in a timely manner
• Ensure the correct order is delivered to the right table and customers
• Assist with setting tables, clearing tables, and managing seating availability
• Maintain high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in all areas of the restaurant or venue
• Restock service areas as needed, including utensils, napkins, and condiments
• Handle customer inquiries and complaints efficiently and professionally
• Assist other team members as needed to ensure smooth operation of the venue
• Comply with food and beverage safety and quality standards

 

Food and Beverage Runner Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are searching for a dedicated Food and Beverage Runner to join our team.

The Food and Beverage Runner will primarily be responsible for serving food and drinks to customers, ensuring orders reach the customers in a timely and accurate manner.

The ideal candidate should have excellent customer service skills, an energetic personality, and a keen eye for detail.

Previous experience in a restaurant or hospitality setting is a plus.

The role involves working in a fast-paced, high-energy environment that requires speed and efficiency.

 

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)
• Ensure food is served in accordance with safety standards (e.g. proper temperature)
• Remove dishes and utensils that are no longer needed from tables
• Assist in setting tables, refilling water glasses and restocking utensils
• Ensure cleanliness of restaurant and adherence to health and safety regulations

 

Qualifications

• Previous work experience as a Food and Beverage Runner or similar role in a hospitality setting
• Understanding of health and safety rules in a restaurant
• Excellent customer service and communication skills
• Ability to carry trays filled with multiple dishes
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• High school diploma or equivalent is preferred

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Meal discounts
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Food and Beverage Runner
• Work Environment: High-energy, fast-paced restaurant environment. The position requires standing and walking for extended periods, and lifting and carrying items up to 25 pounds.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Restaurant Manager.
• Salary: Hourly wage plus tips, wage is based upon candidate experience and qualifications.
• Pay Range: $5 per hour minimum (plus tips) to $15 per hour maximum (plus tips)
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time or Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a brief description of your relevant experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Food and Beverage Runner Do?

A Food and Beverage Runner is a key player in restaurants, bars, or any other establishments where food and drinks are served.

They are responsible for ensuring the efficient delivery of food and beverages from the kitchen and bar to the customers.

This includes carrying trays or push carts filled with food or drinks to the appropriate table or customer.

Food and Beverage Runners are also tasked with setting up tables and ensuring that the dining area is neat and tidy.

They might also assist in the kitchen, preparing ingredients and ensuring that the chefs have everything they need to prepare dishes.

They often work closely with waitstaff to coordinate orders and deliveries, ensuring that every customer receives their order accurately and in a timely manner.

In some establishments, they may also be required to explain the menu items to customers, answer questions about food and beverage options, and handle customer complaints or requests.

Overall, their main goal is to provide excellent customer service and contribute to a positive dining experience for all guests.

 

Food and Beverage Runner Qualifications and Skills

A Food and Beverage Runner should have the necessary qualifications and skills that align with the role’s responsibilities, such as:

• Strong physical endurance to stand and move around for long periods, handle heavy trays and perform tasks efficiently.
• Customer service skills to serve guests in a friendly and professional manner, ensuring a positive dining experience.
• Communication skills to understand orders clearly, relay information to kitchen staff effectively, and answer customer queries or concerns promptly.
• Attention to detail to accurately deliver the correct orders to the appropriate tables without any mistakes.
• Problem-solving skills to handle any customer complaints or issues that may arise during service, taking necessary actions to rectify them promptly.
• Knowledge about food safety and hygiene practices to handle and serve food and beverages safely.
• Ability to work under pressure and in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks simultaneously without compromising on service quality.
• Basic math skills for managing transactions and processing payments when necessary.

 

Food and Beverage Runner Experience Requirements

Entry-level food and beverage runners may not necessarily have previous work experience.

However, experience in other hospitality roles, such as dishwashing or bussing tables, may be advantageous.

Many employers provide training for new hires, so a willingness to learn and a positive attitude are key.

After a year or two in the role, food and beverage runners would likely have gained enough experience to understand the operational workings of a restaurant, including food preparation processes, menu knowledge, and excellent customer service skills.

Those with more than 3 years of experience are often considered highly skilled.

They might have gained additional skills such as ordering and inventory management, and the ability to handle high-pressure situations during peak restaurant hours.

Food and beverage runners with over 5 years of experience are often well-equipped to take on a supervisory role in the restaurant.

Their extensive experience and deep understanding of the restaurant operation can make them ideal candidates for roles such as Food and Beverage Supervisor, Assistant Restaurant Manager, or even Restaurant Manager, depending on the size and structure of the establishment.

 

Food and Beverage Runner Education and Training Requirements

Food and Beverage Runners typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

Since the job involves customer service, any training or education in hospitality can be beneficial.

However, most establishments provide on-the-job training for this position.

This role requires knowledge of food and beverage menus, including understanding the ingredients and preparation of various dishes and drinks.

Hence, basic culinary education or familiarity with food and beverages can be advantageous.

Food and Beverage Runners should also have a basic understanding of health and safety regulations in the foodservice industry.

Therefore, food safety certification or training, such as a Food Handler’s Card, can be required by some establishments.

Although not required, some Food and Beverage Runners may choose to pursue further education in hospitality or restaurant management to advance in their careers.

Finally, since Food and Beverage Runners often work in a fast-paced environment, any training that enhances physical stamina, coordination, and balance can be helpful.

 

Food and Beverage Runner Salary Expectations

A Food and Beverage Runner can expect to earn an average wage of $11.00 (USD) per hour.

This earning potential can vary significantly based on factors such as experience, specific location, and the establishment in which they are employed.

 

Food and Beverage Runner Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Food and Beverage Runner need?

Food and Beverage Runners need excellent communication skills to understand orders and to interact with customers and other staff effectively.

They should be detail-oriented to ensure accuracy in order delivery and should also have good physical stamina as the job often requires long hours of standing and moving around.

A good understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations is essential too.

 

Do Food and Beverage Runners need any specific qualifications?

Typically, there are no specific educational qualifications required for a Food and Beverage Runner.

However, a high school diploma or equivalent may be preferred by some employers.

Training is usually provided on the job.

A food handler’s certificate may be required in some regions.

 

What should you look for in a Food and Beverage Runner resume?

A Food and Beverage Runner resume should highlight previous experience in a similar role or in the hospitality industry.

Look for skills such as customer service, order accuracy, and familiarity with food safety regulations.

Any additional certifications, like a food handler’s certificate, should also be listed.

 

What qualities make a good Food and Beverage Runner?

A good Food and Beverage Runner is punctual, reliable, and has the ability to work well under pressure during busy periods.

They should have a positive attitude, be able to work well in a team, and have good interpersonal skills.

Attention to detail is crucial to ensure correct order delivery and to adhere to food safety standards.

 

Is it difficult to hire a Food and Beverage Runner?

The difficulty in hiring a Food and Beverage Runner can vary.

While the position often has a high turnover rate, there is typically a steady supply of candidates due to the minimal qualifications required.

The challenge lies in finding candidates who are hardworking, reliable, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, stressful environment.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve delved into the ins and outs of a food and beverage runner.

Surprised?

It’s not just about serving food and drinks.

It’s about delivering the perfect dining experience, one meal at a time.

With our comprehensive food and beverage runner job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to hit the ground running.

But why hold back?

Immerse yourself further with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating precise job listings or fine-tuning your resume to stand out.

Bear in mind:

Every detail in service contributes to the broader dining experience.

Let’s create that experience. Together.

How to Become a Food and Beverage Runner (Complete Guide)

Economic Safeguards: Jobs That Resist Recession Risks

Market Movers: The Jobs That Are Dominating the Market

The Quirkiest Careers: Unusual Jobs with Big Payoffs

The Ultimate Guide: Stress-Free Jobs with Impressive Salaries