This post presents detailed information on the food server job description, including the key tasks, duties, and responsibilities they commonly perform, as well as a template employers can use.
it also provides the major requirements you may be expected to meet to be hired for the food server job by employers/recruiters.
What Does a Food Server Do?
A food server, also known as a waiter or waitress in a service restaurant typically takes orders for beverages and food from customers, then serves them the items as requested.
A food server job description includes both preparing and serving the food at various venues. A perfect example might include hotels, cafes, and fast food restaurants.
According to reports on O*NET OnLine, the tasks typically performed by food servers include placing food servings on trays or plates in response to instructions or orders.
It also involves cleaning or sterilizing kitchen utensils, dishes, equipment, and facilities.
The pay of a food server might be a combination of tips from customers and an hourly wage, with tips often times constituting the major part of their earning.
The server’s responsibilities depend on many things, such as the location.
In a restaurant, for instance, their basic duties normally begin with greeting and welcoming customers as they come into the restaurant, or as they are seated at the tables.
Servers offer menus and describe the restaurant’s special dishes; they answer any question a customer might have to ask.
They take beverage and food orders, relaying them to the kitchen staff.
After serving the already prepared foods, they might follow up with the customer to ensure a remarkable dining experience was achieved for the customer.
The role of the server also entails frequent clearing of dishes from the table after customers might have finished eating.
They also present the customer with the bills and might process their payments or refer to the accounts department.
Many restaurant food servers work in stressful and sometimes demanding environments.
They are mainly always standing and often have to carry heavy items and food trays, requiring a high degree of coordination and physical strength.
In busy restaurants, servers may be responsible for several tables full of customers; yet, they must either remember specific customer requests or write down everything.
The responsibilities of a food server can vary and this depends on the location.
However, their role typically entails greeting patrons, taking their orders, serving them, and cleaning the table afterwards.
Food Server Job Description Sample/Example/Template
Here is a sample job description for the food server position. It consists of key duties, tasks, and responsibilities normally carried out by people who work as food servers:
- Carry silverware, linen on trays, food and/or use carts to carry trays
- Arrange food servings on trays according to orders by customers
- Prepare food items, such as soups, sandwiches, salads, and beverages
- Examine trays to be sure that they contain items required
- Load trays with accessories, such as condiments, napkins, and utensils for eating
- Monitor distribution of food, ensuring that meals are delivered accordingly and that guidelines are followed, such as those for people on special diets
- Remove stack dishes and trays for return to kitchen after customers finish eating
- Stock service stations with items like straws, napkins, and ice
- Take food orders and communicate such to serving counters or kitchen staff so they can be filled
- Clean and sterilize kitchen utensils, dishes, equipment, and facilities
- Find out where patrons would like to have their meals and help them get sited
- Monitor serving techniques and food preparation to make sure that proper procedures are followed
- Record types of special food items served to customers and their amounts
- Calculate amount of orders taken, present such to customers, and accept payment for services.
Food Server Requirements: Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities for Career Success
Shown below are important requirements candidates for the food server job are usually expected to fulfill to be hired, which are also vital for success on the job and career:
- High school diploma or equivalent (preferred but not always required) as on-the-job training is typically provided
- Customer service skills: Strong ability to engage guests and provide friendly service
- Communication skills: Ability to engage in clear verbal interaction with guests and kitchen staff
- Multitasking ability to handle multiple tables or tasks effectively and efficiently
- Attention to detail to ensure accurate order-taking and proper meal delivery
- Basic math skills for handling payments, calculating bills, making change
- Teamwork: Ability to work effectively with servers, hosts, cooks, and managers
- Ability to stand and walk for long hours
- Familiarity with restaurant hygiene and safety standards
- Ability to lift and carry up to 20–30 lbs (trays, supplies, etc.)
- Stamina to work in a fast-paced environment and to withstand prolong standing
- Basic knowledge of food and beverage items
- Understanding of menu descriptions and dietary requests
- Ability to demonstrate professional appearance and hygiene
- Polite, courteous, and patient
- Friendly and positive attitude
- Food Handler’s Permit (varies by state)
- Alcohol Server Certification (for establishments serving alcohol).
Food Server Job Description Template
Here is a food server job description template employers can edit and use in their job postings to attract the best food servers to their companies:
Position Title: Food Server
Reports To: Restaurant Manager / Shift Supervisor
Location: [Your Company Location]
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Company Overview
[Your Company Name] is a trusted leader in the hospitality and dining industry, providing guests with exceptional food, outstanding service, and a memorable dining experience. Our team values professionalism, teamwork, attention to detail, and a genuine commitment to customer satisfaction. We are looking for dedicated individuals who thrive in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
Position Overview
We are seeking an energetic, friendly, and service-oriented Food Server to join our team. The Food Server is responsible for greeting guests, taking orders, serving food and beverages, and ensuring a positive dining experience. The ideal candidate enjoys interacting with people, works well in a team environment, and can provide consistent, high-quality service during busy shifts.
Key Responsibilities
Guest Service
- Greet guests promptly, warmly, and professionally upon arrival.
- Provide menu knowledge, recommend food and beverage options, and answer guest questions.
- Take accurate food and drink orders using the POS system.
- Ensure guests receive timely service and follow up to guarantee satisfaction.
- Resolve guest concerns quickly or notify management as needed.
Food & Beverage Delivery
- Serve food and beverages according to health, safety, and service standards.
- Check delivered items for accuracy, quality, and presentation.
- Refill beverages, deliver condiments, and provide additional service items as needed.
- Clear tables and reset them for the next guests promptly.
Order Accuracy & Coordination
- Communicate special requests or dietary needs to kitchen staff.
- Ensure food orders are prepared and delivered correctly.
- Coordinate with team members to ensure a smooth dining flow.
Cash Handling & Payment Processing
- Present checks, handle cash and card transactions, and operate the POS system accurately.
- Process payments, issue receipts, and return correct change when necessary.
Cleanliness & Compliance
- Maintain clean and organized dining, serving, and workstation areas.
- Follow all food handling, sanitation, and hygiene standards.
- Comply with health department regulations and company safety policies.
Skills & Qualifications
- Previous experience as a Food Server or in customer service is preferred, but not required.
- Strong communication and people skills.
- Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
- Positive attitude, professionalism, and a team-oriented mindset.
- Strong attention to detail and order accuracy.
- Ability to stand, walk, lift trays, and carry items for extended periods.
- Basic math and cash-handling skills.
Education & Experience Requirements
- High school diploma or GED preferred, but not required.
- On-the-job training will be provided.
- Food handler certification may be required depending on state or local regulations.
Eligibility to Work in the United States
Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship now or in the future.
Work Environment
- Fast-paced restaurant or dining environment.
- Frequent standing, walking, lifting, and interacting with guests.
- Exposure to hot/cold temperatures, cleaning chemicals, and kitchen equipment.
- Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may be required.
Equal Opportunity Statement
[Your Company Name] is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We encourage applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any legally protected characteristic.
Additional Information
- This job description outlines the general responsibilities and requirements of the role but may not cover all duties.
- Duties may change at any time based on business needs.
- Reasonable accommodations may be provided to qualified individuals with disabilities.
- Pre-employment background checks or reference checks may be required.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit their resume and optional cover letter to [Insert Email or Application Link].
Food Server Job Description for Resume
If you have worked before in the role of a food server or are presently working in that position and are making a resume or CV for a new job, then you can utilize information from the job description example above in writing the Professional Experience part of your resume.
You can apply the duties and responsibilities of a food server that are presented in the above job description example in making your resume’s Professional Experience.
This will show that you have been effective in performing the duties of a food server, which can boost your chances of getting hired, especially if the new position you are seeking requires someone with some food serving experience.
Conclusion
Food servers are some of the most useful employees in a restaurant. Servers are constantly helpful, uplifting, and above all appreciated by their customers.
This post is helpful to individuals interested in becoming a food server, to boost their knowledge of the duties and responsibilities that commonly make up the food server job description.
It is also helpful to employers/recruiters in making a detailed job description for the role.
They can apply the food server job description template provided on this page in making one for their companies.
