Olive Garden logo

Food Runner

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Part-time
Hourly
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Work Schedule

Flexible
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Benefits

flexible schedules
Free Employee Meal
weekly pay
Anniversary pay
Paid sick leave
Paid Family and Medical Leave
Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
ongoing training
discounts
401(k) savings plan
Management career advancement opportunities

Job Description

Olive Garden is a renowned casual dining restaurant chain specializing in authentic Italian cuisine, widely recognized for its warm, inviting atmosphere and commitment to delivering exceptional dining experiences. As one of the largest Italian-themed restaurant brands, Olive Garden has built a strong reputation for its genuine hospitality, delicious recipes, and dedication to creating memorable moments for guests. The establishment prides itself on fostering a family-friendly environment where both guests and employees feel valued and appreciated. With a focus on quality, the restaurant emphasizes freshness, flavor, and presentation in every dish served, ensuring guests receive only the best. Olive Garden operates in many locations nationwide, providing numerous opportunities for team members to grow professionally within the hospitality industry.

The role of Food Runner at Olive Garden is an essential component within the restaurant's dynamic front-of-house team, responsible for ensuring that every food order prepared reaches the guests promptly and accurately. This position plays a critical role in maintaining the high standards of service and quality that Olive Garden is known for, by acting as the vital link between the kitchen staff and dining area. Food Runners support servers by delivering dishes while maintaining proper presentation and temperature, enhancing the overall dining experience for guests.

In this role, you will assist in pre-bussing tables, maintaining cleanliness, and supporting the service flow to ensure that the restaurant environment remains organized and welcoming. Communication between the kitchen and front-of-house team is fundamental, and Food Runners must anticipate guest needs while proactively assisting to streamline meal delivery. With a deep commitment to food safety and sanitation, this role requires adherence to rigorous cleanliness protocols to guarantee a healthy dining atmosphere for all.

Olive Garden offers flexible scheduling to accommodate employees’ varying life commitments, such as school, childcare, or family care, making it an ideal workplace for those seeking a balance between work and personal responsibilities. The pay structure includes weekly pay and additional benefits such as paid sick leave, paid family and medical leave, and anniversary pay, reflecting the company’s commitment to valuing and supporting its team members. New hires receive ongoing training designed to build critical skills and provide pathways for career advancement within the restaurant and the hospitality sector overall.

Furthermore, the company provides competitive benefits, including health and dental insurance, a 401(k) savings plan with company match after one year of service, and exclusive employee discounts on a variety of products and services. Employees at Olive Garden also enjoy perks like free meals during their shifts and opportunities for growth, with over half of the management team promoted from hourly roles. This position promises a rewarding work environment where dedication, teamwork, and enthusiasm for providing outstanding service are deeply appreciated.

Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • ability to work flexible hours including nights, weekends, and holidays
  • ability to stand and walk for extended periods
  • physical stamina to carry food trays
  • commitment to food safety and sanitation standards

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent preferred
  • previous experience in a restaurant or food service role is an asset
  • strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • proactive attitude and team-oriented mindset
  • basic knowledge of food safety practices

Job Duties

  • Efficiently and accurately deliver food orders from the kitchen to guest tables, ensuring proper presentation and temperature
  • assist servers with pre-bussing tables and maintaining a clean and organized dining area
  • communicate effectively with kitchen staff and servers to ensure seamless order flow and guest satisfaction
  • anticipate guest needs and proactively assist the front-of-house team
  • adhere to all food safety and sanitation guidelines, contributing to a safe and healthy environment for guests and team members
  • support the overall dining experience by ensuring timely and correct delivery of all food items

Job Criteria

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)


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