Restaurant Wait Staff Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of hospitality, the role of restaurant wait staff has never been more crucial.

The foodservice industry evolves constantly, and with each new trend, the demand for skilled individuals who can create, enhance, and maintain our dining experiences rises.

But let’s dig a little deeper: What’s truly expected from a restaurant wait staff member?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the demands of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply intrigued by the dynamics of restaurant operations,

You’re in the right place.

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

Let’s dive right in.

Restaurant Wait Staff Duties and Responsibilities

Restaurant Wait Staff play a critical role in the food service industry.

They are responsible for providing a positive dining experience by offering excellent customer service, serving meals, and assisting with customers’ needs.

Their main duties and responsibilities include:

• 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
• Take accurate food and drink orders using order slips or by memorization
• Communicate order details to the kitchen staff
• Serve food and drink orders to customers quickly and accurately
• Check dishes and kitchenware for cleanliness and presentation and report any problems
• Arrange table settings and maintain a tidy dining area
• Deliver bills and collect payments
• Provide excellent customer service to guests
• Handle complaints or problems with a positive attitude
• Comply with all food and beverage regulations

 

Restaurant Wait Staff Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a skilled and attentive Wait Staff to join our restaurant team.

As Wait Staff, your primary responsibility will be to provide exceptional dining experience by serving our customers in a friendly, timely, and efficient manner.

Successful candidates will have a thorough understanding of menu items, the ability to handle cash transactions, and a keen eye for detail.

Our goal is to enhance customer satisfaction, boost our sales, and leave our guests with a positive, lasting impression of their dining experience.

 

Responsibilities

• Greet and guide customers to their tables
• Present menu and provide detailed information when asked
• Prepare tables by setting up linens, silverware and glasses
• Serve food and drink orders
• Check dishes and kitchenware for cleanliness and presentation
• Take accurate food and drinks orders, using a POS ordering software
• Communicate order details to the kitchen staff
• Arrange table settings and maintain a tidy dining area
• Deliver checks and collect bill payments
• Meet with restaurant staff to review daily specials, changes on the menu and service specifications for reservations (e.g. parties)

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Waiter or Waitress
• Hands-on experience with cash register and ordering information system
• 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

 

Benefits

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Tips and gratuity

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Restaurant Wait Staff
• Work Environment: Fast-paced, high-volume full-service restaurant
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Restaurant Manager
• Salary: Hourly wage plus tips, based on experience and qualifications
• Pay Range: $2.13 minimum to $7.25 maximum per hour plus tips
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location)
• Employment Type: Full-time/Part-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our restaurant. 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 experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Restaurant Wait Staff Do?

Restaurant Wait Staff, also known as servers, are primarily responsible for providing exceptional customer service in food and beverage establishments.

They work in a variety of settings, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants.

Their main job is to take orders from patrons, serve food and beverages, and ensure that customers have a satisfying dining experience.

Wait Staff are typically responsible for presenting menus to customers, answering questions about menu items, making food and drink recommendations, and explaining daily specials.

They also have to accurately input orders into the restaurant’s computer system and convey any special dietary requests or food allergies to the kitchen staff.

Wait Staff are usually responsible for setting tables, cleaning tables and dining areas, preparing bill receipts, and processing payments.

They may also assist with other tasks such as restocking supplies and assisting with food preparation.

Exceptional customer service skills are critical for Wait Staff, as they often handle customer complaints and should strive to resolve any issues that arise to ensure customer satisfaction.

In some establishments, Wait Staff may also have the responsibility of serving alcohol, which includes checking the identification of patrons to ensure they meet the legal drinking age.

In summary, the role of Restaurant Wait Staff is to provide an excellent dining experience for customers through attentive service and a deep understanding of the menu.

 

Restaurant Wait Staff Qualifications and Skills

Restaurant Wait Staff need to have a variety of interpersonal skills, service skills and industry knowledge to provide exceptional customer service, including:

• Excellent communication skills to take customer orders accurately, explain the menu and answer any queries about the dishes.
• Exceptional customer service skills to ensure that the dining experience of every customer is pleasant and satisfactory.
• Interpersonal skills to build a rapport with customers, creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.
• A good memory and attention to detail to remember customers’ orders, dietary preferences, and allergies.
• Physical stamina and speed to stand for long periods, handle busy shifts, and manage multiple tables at once.
• Problem-solving skills to handle any customer complaints or issues that arise, ensuring they are resolved swiftly and efficiently.
• Basic math skills for handling cash transactions and providing customers with accurate bill totals.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene rules to maintain a clean and safe environment.

 

Restaurant Wait Staff Experience Requirements

Entry-level wait staff typically have little to no experience and receive on-the-job training in areas like customer service, food safety, and restaurant procedures.

Candidates may gain experience through part-time roles in the food service industry, such as working at fast food chains, cafeterias, or catering events.

Volunteering at community events can also provide valuable experience in food serving and customer interaction.

Wait staff with 1 to 2 years of experience usually have a solid understanding of restaurant operations and have developed strong customer service skills.

They may have also received specialized training in wine, dessert, or gourmet food serving.

Those with more than 3 years of experience often have taken on additional responsibilities such as training new staff, maintaining inventory, or supervising others in the absence of a manager.

Individuals with 5 or more years of experience typically have a comprehensive understanding of restaurant operations and may be ready for a managerial or supervisory role, such as a restaurant manager or head waiter.

They may also have more specialized skills, such as mixology or sommelier expertise, that can enhance their role.

 

Restaurant Wait Staff Education and Training Requirements

Restaurant Wait Staff typically require a high school diploma or equivalent education.

While not always necessary, having previous experience in the hospitality industry can be beneficial.

There are vocational schools and community colleges that offer hospitality or service industry programs where students learn food service and hospitality principles.

These programs can result in a certificate or associate degree.

On-the-job training is a common practice in this field.

New hires usually shadow more experienced wait staff to learn about the establishment’s policies and procedures, menu items, and how to handle difficult customer situations.

Good knowledge of food and beverage pairings, as well as understanding dietary restrictions and allergies, is also important.

In upscale restaurants, more formal training might be required, including wine tasting and presentation classes.

Certain states require wait staff who serve alcohol to be of a certain age and to have a valid alcohol service certification.

Some wait staff may choose to pursue further training or certification through the National Restaurant Association or similar organizations, which offer courses in customer service, safe food handling, and management principles.

This can demonstrate a commitment to the profession and increase opportunities for advancement.

 

Restaurant Wait Staff Salary Expectations

The average wage for Restaurant Wait Staff is $10.69 (USD) per hour, excluding tips.

Actual earnings can greatly vary depending on the restaurant’s location, the frequency and amount of tips received, the worker’s experience, and the policies of the employing company.

 

Restaurant Wait Staff Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Restaurant Wait Staff need?

Restaurant Wait Staff should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with guests effectively.

They should also have an understanding of menu items and be able to explain them to guests.

Wait staff should be quick on their feet, have good memory recall, and should possess basic math skills for handling cash and calculating bills.

 

Do Restaurant Wait Staff need a degree?

Restaurant Wait Staff do not need a degree, but many employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, some sort of training or experience in hospitality or customer service would be an added advantage.

 

What should you look for in a Restaurant Wait Staff resume?

When looking at a Restaurant Wait Staff resume, check for prior experience in a restaurant or hospitality environment.

Experience in handling cash registers or point-of-sale systems is also useful.

Look for candidates who show good communication skills, a friendly demeanor, and a willingness to work in a team.

Knowledge of food safety and handling procedures is also beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Restaurant Wait Staff?

A good Restaurant Wait Staff is patient, friendly, and courteous.

They should have good energy levels, as they might have to work long shifts.

Good Wait Staff are attentive and responsive to guests’ needs, are good listeners and can handle difficult situations with grace.

They should also have a good understanding of the menu and be able to make recommendations based on guests’ preferences.

 

How do I train a Restaurant Wait Staff?

Training a Restaurant Wait Staff involves teaching them about the menu, restaurant policies, and customer service standards.

They should also be trained in handling cash, using the point-of-sale system, and food safety procedures.

It’s also important to teach them how to handle difficult situations or complaints.

Some training might be on-the-job, while other aspects may involve formal training sessions.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve unfolded the napkin on what it truly means to be a restaurant wait staff.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about taking orders.

It’s about creating unforgettable dining experiences, one table at a time.

With our trusty restaurant wait staff job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped for your next step.

But why stop there?

Whet your appetite with our job description generator. It’s your secret recipe to flavor-packed listings or refining your resume to gourmet standards.

Remember:

Every order taken, every customer served is a part of a larger dining experience.

Let’s dish out those experiences. Together.

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