Waiter/Waitress Job Description Templates

A well-crafted Waiter and Waitress job description will help you attract top talent, ensuring your establishment hires qualified employees aligned with company values.

This guide provides everything you need to know about creating an effective job description for a Waitress or Waiter. We’ve also included four templates you can customize for your establishment’s recruitment needs.

Restaurant Waiter/Waitress Job Description Template (General)

This Waitress job description template is designed to provide a comprehensive yet flexible framework for hiring in any type of dining establishment. 

It covers the essential duties and qualifications expected of a waitstaff, making it versatile enough to be adapted for casual, mid-range or fine dining environments. 

Whether you’re looking to fill positions in a traditional or a high-end restaurant, this general template offers a solid foundation that you can customize to meet your specific needs.

Download this Waitress and Waiter job description template in PDF or Word format and customize it to your specific needs, so you can find the perfect candidate.

Hotel Waiter/Waitress Job Description Template

This Hotel Waitress job description template is tailored to meet the unique needs of a hotel or resort setting. 

It provides a detailed outline of the core responsibilities and qualifications required for a Waiter/Waitress in an environment where the focus is on delivering exceptional service to guests in various dining areas, from room service to the hotel restaurant. 

Whether your hotel caters to business travelers or luxury vacationers, this template offers a versatile starting point that you can easily adjust to align with the specific requirements of your establishment.

Hotel Waiter/Waitress Job Overview

We are seeking a motivated and service-oriented Waiter/Waitress to become a part of our team at [Hotel Name]. In this role, you will be responsible for delivering exceptional dining experiences to our hotel guests, whether in our restaurant, bar or through room service.

Your duties will include taking orders, serving meals and beverages and ensuring that all guest requests are promptly and professionally attended to, contributing to an outstanding overall guest experience.

If you have a passion for hospitality and enjoy working in a dynamic hotel environment, [Hotel Name] provides an excellent opportunity for you to develop your skills and grow in the industry.

Salary: $16–$18/hour + tips

Benefits: Health insurance, paid time off, 401(k), employee discounts on hotel services

Schedule: Full-time or part-time

Duties & Responsibilities

• Greet guests and escort them to their tables in the hotel restaurant or dining area
• Present the menu and provide detailed descriptions of dishes and beverages, offering suggestions when needed
• Set and prepare tables, ensuring they meet the hotel’s high standards
• Inform guests about any daily specials and promotions
• Accurately take food and beverage orders and relay them to the kitchen and bar staff
• Verify guests’ identification to ensure compliance with alcohol service regulations
• Deliver orders promptly to guests, ensuring a high level of presentation and service
• Manage table arrangements and maintain a clean and organized dining area
• Process payment transactions and provide guests with accurate bills
• Clear and reset tables promptly after guests’ departure
• Consistently deliver outstanding customer service throughout all hotel dining experiences

Experience & Skills

• Proven experience as a Waiter/Waitress or similar role, preferably in a hotel setting
• Familiarity with using point-of-sale systems and cash handling procedures
• Basic mathematical skills for handling transactions and guest checks
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to remain calm under pressure
• Exceptional communication skills and a professional demeanor
• Ability to work well in a team-oriented environment
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays

Education & Additional Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Certification in food safety and hygiene is highly desirable, especially in upscale hotel dining settings
• Multilingual abilities are an advantage, particularly in serving international guests

Cocktail Waiter/Waitress Job Description Template

This Cocktail Waitress job description template is crafted to suit the needs of establishments with a focus on premium beverage service. 

It outlines the essential duties and qualifications required for a server specializing in cocktails, whether in a bustling bar, a trendy lounge or an upscale restaurant.

Cocktail Waiter/Waitress Job Overview

We are looking for an enthusiastic and experienced Cocktail Waiter/Waitress to join our team at [Establishment Name].

In this role, you will be responsible for providing guests with an exceptional beverage experience, from recommending and serving signature cocktails to ensuring a vibrant and engaging atmosphere.

Your duties will include taking drink orders, mixing and serving beverages and maintaining a well-stocked and organized bar area.

If you have a passion for mixology and enjoy delivering top-tier customer service in a lively setting, [Establishment Name] offers an exciting opportunity to showcase your skills and creativity.

Salary: $16–$20/hour + tips
Benefits: Health insurance, vision insurance, dental insurance, sick leave, paid time off, 401(k), employee discounts on beverages and food
Schedule: Full-time (40 hours per week), evenings and weekends

Duties & Responsibilities

• Greet guests and provide prompt, friendly service in the bar or lounge area
• Present the cocktail menu, highlighting signature drinks and offering recommendations based on guest preferences
• Accurately take drink orders and convey them to the bar staff or prepare them personally, depending on the establishment’s setup
• Ensure proper mixing, garnishing and serving of drinks according to recipes and guest specifications
• Maintain a clean and organized bar area, including stocking supplies and cleaning glassware
• Manage multiple orders at once, ensuring timely service during peak hours
• Process payments and handle cash or card transactions efficiently
• Engage with guests to create a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere
• Adhere to all safety and sanitation policies when handling beverages
• Assist with inventory management and report any shortages to management
• Deliver exceptional customer service by anticipating guest needs and resolving any issues promptly

Experience & Skills

• Proven experience as a Cocktail Waiter/Waitress or in a similar role, preferably in a high-volume bar or lounge
• Strong knowledge of mixology, including the ability to create classic and innovative cocktails
• Familiarity with point-of-sale systems and cash handling
• Excellent communication skills with a flair for engaging with guests
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently under pressure
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Team player with a positive attitude
• Flexibility to work late nights, weekends and holidays

Education & Additional Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Certification in responsible beverage service (e.g., TIPS, RBS) is highly recommended
• Knowledge of liquor laws and regulations
• At least [minimum age for serving alcohol in your state] years old

Head Waiter/Waitress Job Description Template

This Head Waitress job description template is designed to meet the needs of establishments seeking a strong leader to help oversee front-of-house operations. Think of this specific Waiter/Waitress type as someone who will be working closely with the Restaurant Manager.

It outlines the key responsibilities and qualifications for a supervisory role in the service team, ensuring that high standards of service are maintained across the board.

Head Waiter/Waitress Job Overview

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Head Waiter/Waitress to lead our waitstaff at [Restaurant Name].

In this role, you will be helping the Restaurant Manager in handling the daily operations of the service team, ensuring that guests receive exceptional dining experiences while maintaining a smooth and efficient workflow.

Your duties will include supervising staff, coordinating service activities and upholding the highest standards of customer service.

If you have strong leadership abilities and a passion for hospitality, [Restaurant Name] offers a rewarding opportunity to advance your career in a dynamic environment.

Salary: $20–$25/hour + tips
Benefits: Health insurance, paid time off, 401(k), employee discounts on food and beverages
Schedule: Full-time (40 hours per week), including evenings and weekends

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the waitstaff, ensuring that all team members perform their duties efficiently
• Welcome guests and oversee their seating, ensuring a seamless and pleasant dining experience
• Present the menu and provide detailed information on dishes, beverages and specials
• Take orders, relay them accurately to the kitchen and ensure timely delivery of food and beverages
• Monitor and manage table assignments to optimize service flow and reduce wait times
• Set and enforce high standards for table setup, cleanliness and overall presentation
• Resolve guest complaints or issues swiftly, ensuring customer satisfaction
• Train and mentor new staff, providing guidance on best practices and service standards
• Schedule shifts and manage staff attendance to ensure adequate coverage during busy periods
• Oversee payment processing and ensure all transactions are handled correctly
• Collaborate with the kitchen and bar staff to maintain smooth communication and service coordination
• Conduct regular team meetings to discuss service improvements and address any operational challenges
• Maintain inventory of front-of-house supplies and coordinate with management on ordering needs
• Deliver exceptional customer service while setting an example for the rest of the team

Experience & Skills

• Proven experience as a senior Waiter/Waitress or similar supervisory role, preferably in a busy restaurant environment
• At least two years of experience in a front-of-house role
• Strong leadership and management abilities, with experience leading a team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to handle high-pressure situations with poise and professionalism
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to multitask and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced setting
• Collaborative mindset with the ability to work well with other departments
• Familiarity with point-of-sale systems and cash handling
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including weekends and holidays

Education & Additional Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Certification in food safety and hygiene or ability to obtain one
• Completion of a management or leadership training program is a plus

What To Include in Your Waiter/Waitress Job Description

A compelling Waiter/Waitress job description template should have the following components:

Job Title

When selecting a job title, it’s essential to strike a balance between clarity and specificity. 

A job title like “Waiter/Waitress” is straightforward, ensuring that potential candidates immediately understand the role. However, if your establishment has specific needs, consider adding descriptive elements to the title. 

For example, “Cocktail Waitress” or “Head Waiter” provides additional context about the specialization or level of responsibility. 

Clear titles not only attract the right candidates but also set the tone for what the role entails. Avoid vague or overly creative titles that could confuse applicants.

Job Overview

The job overview is where you briefly explain what the role is all about. For a Waiter/Waitress, this part should highlight the main goal: providing excellent customer service and making sure guests have a great dining experience. 

Mention where the job takes place, like in a casual diner, fine dining restaurant or hotel. This helps applicants know if the job is a good fit for them. 

Also, talk about how the role contributes to the success of your business, like keeping customers happy and coming back.

Salary, Benefits and Schedule

Being upfront about pay and benefits is really important. Clearly state how much you’re offering per hour or as a salary and don’t forget to mention any tips or bonuses. 

Include benefits like health insurance, paid time off, employee discounts and anything else that your establishment offers.

Being clear about this can help attract the right candidates and avoid misunderstandings later on.

For the schedule, let candidates know if the job is full-time or part-time and whether they’ll need to work evenings, weekends or holidays. This is especially important in the hospitality industry, where hours can vary.

Duties and Responsibilities

Make sure to list the precise duties and responsibilities expected of the Waiter/Waitress role. This may involve tasks such as taking orders accurately, serving food and beverages promptly, ensuring tables are clean and set properly and providing attentive service to guests throughout their dining experience.

Be specific about what you expect. This helps candidates understand exactly what they’ll be doing regularly if they get the job.

Make sure the responsibilities are easy to read by grouping similar tasks together and using bullet points. This makes the description more organized and reader-friendly.

Experience and Skills

This part should outline what kind of experience and skills are needed or highly preferred for the job. 

For a Waiter/Waitress, you might want someone who has worked in similar roles before, whether in casual dining or a more formal restaurant. 

As for specific roles like Head Waiter/Waitress, you should indicate the minimum number of years as a Waiter/Waitress (or other front-of-house role) an applicant should have.

When listing items for your Waiter/Waitress job description skills section, focus on what’s most important for the role. This can include good communication, attention to detail and the ability to multitask. You might also want to include technical skills such as familiarity with point-of-sale systems and food safety protocols.

If your restaurant has special requirements or preferences, like someone who speaks multiple languages to better service foreign/international guests, be sure to highlight those. 

Also, mention the importance of a positive attitude and a passion for hospitality, as these traits often make a big difference in customer service.

Education and Additional Qualifications

Start by listing any education requirements for the job. For most Waiter/Waitress positions, a high school diploma or equivalent is usually enough. However, some establishments are also open to hiring high school-age candidates. 

If your restaurant values additional training, like courses in hospitality or food service, mention that here.

If you’re hiring for a more specialized role, like a Cocktail Waitress or Head Waitress, you might require additional qualifications, like a certification in alcohol service or food safety. These qualifications show that the candidate is well-prepared and committed to their profession.

Here are some courses that you can either list as ‘highly preferable’ in your job ad or encourage your current waitstaff to take:

Course name	Description
Universal Class’s Waiter and Waitress Training Course	This comprehensive program explores various aspects of waiting, equipping participants with essential skills such as customer service, table management and service techniques. Graduates emerge ready to contribute effectively to your establishment from day one, minimizing the need for extensive training and onboarding processes.
American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute’s Certified Restaurant Server Online Program	Designed to prepare individuals for success in the restaurant industry, this course provides comprehensive training in service excellence and restaurant operations. Hiring graduates of this program ensures a level of competence and professionalism that aligns with the high standards of your establishment.
International Open Academy’s Professional Waiter Diploma Program	Completing this course equips graduates with the skills to excel as professional waitstaff, improving service quality and customer satisfaction at your establishment.
SafeStuff’s Employee Online Food Handler Training	Food safety and hygiene are crucial in the hospitality industry. By hiring individuals who have completed this training, you demonstrate a commitment to compliance and risk mitigation, ensuring the safety and well-being of both your customers and your business.
Professional Server Certification Corporation’s Waiter/Waitress Hospitality Course	Covering a range of topics including customer service, communication and professionalism, this course prepares participants for success in the hospitality industry. Graduates bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to your team, enhancing your establishment’s reputation and competitiveness in the market.

Lastly, you might also need to indicate an age requirement especially if the Waiter/Waitress position specifically involves serving alcohol. In most states, one needs to be at least 18 years old in order to work in roles like Cocktail Waiter/Waitress.  

Tips for Writing a Waiter/Waitress Job Description

A well-crafted job description not only draws in suitable candidates for appropriate positions but also establishes a solid groundwork for smooth onboarding and fostering company expansion.

Here are some extra tips for creating a standout job description for a Waiter/Waitress position:

• Simplify the language: When describing the job, use terms that everyone can understand. Clarity is key for ensuring everyone grasps the role’s responsibilities.
• Avoid industry jargon: While it’s tempting to use specialized terms, keep in mind that not everyone will be familiar with them. Stick to plain language to ensure your message resonates with a broader audience.
• Use action verbs: Bring the job to life by using descriptive verbs that vividly portray the role’s duties. Instead of generic phrases, paint a picture of the responsibilities, such as “Efficiently manage guest seating, take precise orders and deliver attentive service to enhance the dining experience.”
• Prioritize essential qualifications: Focus on the most critical skills, experience and other qualifications required or highly preferred for the job. Avoid posting an overwhelming list that may turn off prospective Waiter/Waitress applicants.
• Showcase company culture: Let your company’s values and mission shine through in the job description. Give candidates insight into your unique workplace culture to help them envision themselves as part of your team.
• Emphasize growth opportunities: Highlight potential avenues for career advancement and professional development within your organization. This attracts ambitious candidates eager to progress in their careers.
• Foster inclusivity: Use inclusive language that welcomes candidates from all backgrounds and identities. Avoid wording that might inadvertently exclude certain groups, ensuring your job description is open to everyone.
• Highlight teamwork: Describe how the Waiter/Waitress role collaborates with the rest of the team, offering candidates a glimpse into your company’s collaborative environment. This fosters a sense of belonging and teamwork.
• Encourage action: Conclude the job description with a clear call-to-action, guiding candidates on the next steps, whether it’s applying for the position or seeking further information. This keeps candidates engaged and motivated to pursue the opportunity.

Check out our comprehensive guide on How To Write a Job Description.

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