Restaurant Server Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In the dynamic world of hospitality, the role of restaurant servers has never been more essential.

As culinary trends evolve, so does the demand for skilled individuals who can deliver, enhance and maintain our dining experiences.

But let’s break it down: What’s truly expected from a restaurant server?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the heart of this role,
• A restaurant manager defining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the inner workings of the restaurant industry,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable restaurant server job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s get right into it.

Restaurant Server Duties and Responsibilities

Restaurant Servers play a crucial role in the hospitality industry.

They are responsible for providing excellent customer service, taking orders, and serving food and beverages to guests.

Their duties and responsibilities often include:

• Greeting and welcoming guests as soon as they arrive at the restaurant
• Taking customers’ orders accurately and relay them to the kitchen staff promptly
• Serving food and drink orders to the guests
• Check-in with customers to ensure they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any issues
• Provide excellent customer service, addressing customers’ needs in a timely manner
• Presenting the menu and helping customers select food and beverages
• Upsell additional products when appropriate
• Process customer payments and provide receipts
• Setting tables and maintaining a tidy dining area
• Comply with all food and beverage regulations
• Provide guidance to customers on the menu, answering their questions and making recommendations upon request
• Clear tables once guests have finished dining

 

Restaurant Server Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a competent Restaurant Server to take and deliver orders.

You’ll be the face of our restaurant and responsible for our customers’ experiences.

Food server responsibilities include ensuring our tables are clean and tidy when guests arrive, presenting menus, serving food and beverages and accepting payments.

Our ideal candidate is quick on their feet (literally and metaphorically) and has an affable, cheerful demeanor.

Ultimately, it is the duty of our Restaurant Server to provide an excellent overall dining experience for our guests.

 

Responsibilities

• Prepare tables by setting up linens, silverware and glasses
• Take accurate food and drink orders using a POS system
• Serve food and drink orders
• Check dishes and kitchenware for cleanliness and presentation before serving
• Up-sell additional products when appropriate
• Arrange table settings and maintain tables clean and tidy
• Deliver checks and collect payments
• Cooperate and communicate with all serving and kitchen staff

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a server, waitstaff member or relevant role
• Hands-on experience in cashier duties and use of POS system
• Attentiveness and patience for customers
• Excellent presentation skills
• Active listening and effective communication skills
• Team spirit
• Flexibility to work in shifts
• High school diploma; food safety training is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Tips
• Paid time off
• Employee discount

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Restaurant Server
• Work Environment: Fast-paced restaurant setting. Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods. Some lifting and carrying may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Restaurant Manager or Shift Supervisor.
• Salary: Base wage plus tips, based on candidate experience and qualifications.
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• 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 cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Restaurant Server Do?

Restaurant Servers, also known as waiters or waitresses, are primarily responsible for ensuring customers have a satisfactory dining experience.

They greet customers, take orders, and serve food and drinks in a timely and professional manner.

They also answer questions about the menu, make recommendations, and upsell additional dishes and drinks when appropriate.

Restaurant Servers are required to maintain a clean and organized dining area.

This involves setting tables, clearing dishes, and preparing silverware and glasses before and after meals.

In addition to this, they handle customer payments, providing the correct change and processing card payments.

They also have the responsibility of handling any customer complaints or issues, working with the management team when necessary.

Some Restaurant Servers may also assist with food preparation and may have the responsibility of maintaining a record of the restaurant’s inventory.

Their key role is to provide excellent customer service, ensuring that each guest leaves the restaurant satisfied with their meal and overall dining experience.

 

Restaurant Server Qualifications and Skills

Restaurant Servers need a combination of practical experience, personal skills and a service-oriented mindset.

These could include:

• Customer service skills to meet and exceed customers’ expectations, handle customer complaints, and provide an overall excellent dining experience.
• Excellent communication skills to take orders accurately, explain menu items to customers, and collaborate effectively with kitchen staff.
• Physical stamina and agility to carry trays, stand and move swiftly for extended periods.
• Good memory to remember customers’ orders, food and drink specials, as well as any potential allergies or dietary restrictions.
• Attention to detail to ensure the order is served correctly and the customer’s needs are met.
• Basic math skills for handling cash transactions and calculating the right change.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations to maintain a clean and safe environment for customers.
• Teamwork skills to work cohesively with other staff members to ensure smooth restaurant operations.
• Flexibility and adaptability to handle a fast-paced work environment and changing customer demands.

 

Restaurant Server Experience Requirements

For entry-level restaurant server roles, employers often require no prior experience.

However, an orientation or training period may be necessary to familiarize new servers with restaurant protocols, menu items, and customer service expectations.

Some servers gain initial experience in fast-food or casual dining settings before moving onto more formal dining establishments.

Others may start in different roles within the restaurant, like hosting or bussing tables, before transitioning into a server role.

Servers with 2 to 3 years of experience usually have a solid understanding of restaurant operations, including food and beverage knowledge, customer service skills, and familiarity with point of sale systems.

They can handle high-volume shifts and manage customer complaints professionally.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in serving often have the ability to take on additional responsibilities such as training new staff, managing large parties, or overseeing specific dining room sections.

This level of experience could also prepare a server for a supervisory or managerial role within the restaurant.

In certain high-end restaurants or fine dining establishments, there might be a requirement for servers to have a specific amount of experience in similar settings due to the elevated level of service and product knowledge required.

 

Restaurant Server Education and Training Requirements

Restaurant servers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

While not mandatory, some individuals may choose to attend a hospitality or culinary school which provides specialized training in food service.

These programs offer theoretical and practical learning experiences in restaurant operations and customer service.

Many restaurants provide on-the-job training for new servers to familiarize them with the restaurant’s operations, menu items, and service standards.

This training often includes shadowing an experienced server, learning about menu items, and becoming accustomed to the restaurant’s point of sale system.

Certain high-end or specialized restaurants may require servers to have knowledge of wine pairings, high-end cuisine, or foreign languages.

In some states, servers who serve alcoholic beverages must complete a state-approved alcohol awareness training program.

Although not required, gaining a certification from the National Restaurant Association or other recognized bodies can provide servers with a competitive edge and demonstrate their commitment to the profession.

Experience in customer service roles is highly beneficial for restaurant servers, as much of the role involves interacting with customers.

Continuous learning and development are essential in this role as menu items and restaurant policies may change regularly.

 

Restaurant Server Salary Expectations

A Restaurant Server can expect to earn an average wage of $11.00 (USD) per hour, excluding tips.

However, their total earnings may vary significantly based on factors such as experience, the type of restaurant they work in, geographical location, and the amount of tips they receive.

 

Restaurant Server Job Description FAQs

What skills does a restaurant server need?

A restaurant server needs strong interpersonal skills for interacting with a variety of customers.

They also need good communication skills to accurately convey customer orders to the kitchen staff and explain menu items to customers.

Problem-solving skills are needed to handle customer complaints or concerns.

Physical stamina is also important as servers are often on their feet for long periods.

 

Do restaurant servers need a degree?

Most restaurant servers do not need a degree, but a high school diploma is usually required.

Some restaurants might prefer servers with a degree in hospitality or a related field.

However, most servers learn their skills on the job.

 

What should you look for in a restaurant server resume?

Look for previous experience in the restaurant industry, which indicates that the applicant has knowledge of restaurant operations and customer service.

Check for any training in food safety or alcohol service, as these are important aspects of a server’s job.

Additionally, look for skills such as multitasking, communication, and teamwork.

 

What qualities make a good restaurant server?

A good restaurant server is personable and enjoys interacting with people.

They are good listeners, able to understand customer orders and any special requests.

They are efficient and able to handle multiple tasks at once.

A good server is also patient and able to handle stressful situations with grace.

 

Is it difficult to hire restaurant servers?

The difficulty of hiring restaurant servers can vary depending on the location and the type of restaurant.

In some areas, there may be a high turnover rate in this profession, which can make it difficult to find long-term, reliable staff.

Offering competitive pay, flexible hours, and a positive work environment can help attract quality candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve gone behind the scenes to understand what it truly means to be a restaurant server.

Guess what?

It’s not just about taking orders and serving food.

It’s about orchestrating memorable dining experiences, one table at a time.

With our essential restaurant server job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Get even more insights with our job description generator. It’s your next course to creating precision-crafted job listings or perfecting your resume.

Keep in mind:

Every table served contributes to the larger dining experience.

Let’s create unforgettable moments. Together.

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