Steward Job Description: Example Template
Crafting a clear and compelling Steward job description is crucial to attracting candidates who can maintain cleanliness, support kitchen operations, and ensure a smooth workflow.
We’ve created a template for a Steward job description that you can copy or download in PDF/Word versions. Additionally, we’ve written a guide on how to create a compelling template that will attract the best candidates.
Steward Job Description Template
This is a general job description template designed for hiring Stewards in restaurants, hotels, and catering services. It can be easily customized based on your establishment’s needs.
You can customize it to fit the specific requirements of your restaurant, hotel, or catering business.
Steward Job Overview
[Restaurant or Hotel Name] is seeking a diligent and reliable Steward to join our back-of-house team at our [Location] establishment.
As a Steward, you will be responsible for maintaining kitchen cleanliness, washing dishes, and assisting in basic food preparation. Your role is vital to keeping kitchen operations running smoothly and ensuring health and safety standards are met.
If you thrive in fast-paced environments and have a keen eye for cleanliness and organization, [Restaurant/Hotel Name] offers an excellent opportunity to be part of a supportive and professional team.
Salary: $14 to $18 per hour
Benefits: 401(k), health insurance, paid time off, meal discounts
Schedule: Full-time or part-time, weekends required
Duties & Responsibilities
Wash dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment efficiently
Maintain cleanliness of the kitchen, ensuring workstations are sanitized
Assist kitchen staff with basic food preparation tasks when needed
Remove garbage and clean garbage bins regularly
Ensure kitchen floors, counters, and storage areas remain clean and organized
Monitor supplies of cleaning products and replenish as needed
Comply with food safety and sanitation regulations
Report maintenance issues or equipment malfunctions to management
Experience Requirements & Skills
- Previous experience in kitchen environments preferred but not required
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced setting
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness
- Team player with good communication skills
- Ability to lift heavy objects (up to 50 lbs) and stand for extended periods
- Basic understanding of food safety standards
Education & Other Certifications
- High school diploma or equivalent preferred
- Valid Food Handler’s card (or willingness to obtain one)
- Must meet the minimum age requirement for food service in your state
What To Include in a Steward Job Description
If you prefer to create a Steward job description from scratch, ensure you include the following essential elements to make the job posting clear and effective:
1. Job Title
Specify whether you’re hiring for a Kitchen Steward, Hotel Steward, or Utility Steward. Tailor the title to fit the role’s core responsibilities and level of involvement in kitchen operations.
2. Job Overview
Summarize the Steward’s primary role in maintaining kitchen cleanliness and assisting kitchen staff. Emphasize the importance of hygiene and organization.
3. Salary
Include the expected hourly wage or annual salary. Transparency about pay attracts serious candidates and reduces negotiation time.
4. Benefits
Highlight the benefits your company offers to Stewards, such as:
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Meal discounts
- Opportunities for advancement
Offering competitive benefits helps attract long-term employees and reduces turnover.
5. Schedule
Clarify if the position is part-time, full-time, or seasonal. Mention if weekend, evening, or holiday shifts are required.
6. Steward Duties and Responsibilities
Tailor this section to the type of establishment you operate. Common responsibilities include:
- Washing dishes and utensils
- Cleaning food preparation areas
- Organizing kitchen tools and restocking supplies
- Assisting with minor food prep tasks
- Maintaining garbage disposal and waste management
Clearly outlining these tasks ensures applicants understand the scope of their responsibilities.
7. Experience and Skills Requirements
Specify the required experience and skills. While many Steward positions are entry-level, experience in kitchen environments is often preferred. Essential skills include:
- Ability to handle physical labor
- Attention to cleanliness and hygiene
- Good communication and teamwork
8. Education and Certifications
While a high school diploma may not always be required, certifications like a Food Handler’s card or Sanitation Certificate can be beneficial.
Extra Tips for Writing a Steward Job Description
- Keep it concise and clear – Avoid unnecessary jargon and focus on key responsibilities.
- Use action-oriented verbs – Phrases like “clean,” “sanitize,” and “assist” clarify job tasks.
- Highlight growth potential – Mention opportunities to advance to roles like Line Cook or Prep Cook.
- Avoid abbreviations – Ensure clarity by using full terms for accessibility.
- Use gender-neutral language – Foster inclusivity by avoiding gendered terms.
FAQs About Writing a Steward Job Description
A Steward should have a strong work ethic, physical stamina, and a basic understanding of kitchen hygiene. Experience in food service environments is advantageous but not always required.
Most Steward positions are entry-level and do not require prior experience. However, 6 months to 1 year of kitchen experience can be beneficial.
Key skills include attention to detail, physical endurance, teamwork, and basic knowledge of food safety practices.
Yes. Including benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and meal discounts makes the position more attractive to potential candidates.
Stewards often advance to roles such as Prep Cook, Line Cook, or Kitchen Supervisor with the right training and experience.