Waiter

SUMMARY:
The Waiter is responsible for delivering exceptional food and beverage service by providing a professional, friendly, and attentive dining experience. The role involves taking orders, serving food and beverages, maintaining cleanliness within the restaurant, and ensuring guest satisfaction while adhering to the establishment's service standards.
 
Key Responsibilities
Guest Service

• Welcome and seat guests in a professional and courteous manner.
• Present menus and provide detailed information on food and beverage offerings.
• Make recommendations based on guest preferences and dietary requirements.
• Take accurate food and beverage orders and communicate them to the kitchen and bar.
• Ensure guests receive prompt, efficient, and personalised service throughout their dining experience.
• Address guest concerns or complaints professionally and escalate when necessary.
• Build positive relationships with guests to encourage repeat business.

• Serve food and beverages according to the establishment's service standards.
• Ensure food is served at the correct temperature and presented attractively.
• Check on guests during meals to ensure satisfaction.
• Refill beverages and clear used crockery and cutlery promptly.
• Prepare tables for the next guests efficiently.
• Assist with buffet service, room service, and private functions where required.

• Set up and prepare the restaurant before service.
• Ensure tables are correctly laid with clean linen, crockery, cutlery, and glassware.
• Maintain cleanliness and organisation of the dining area.
• Assist with opening and closing procedures.
• Ensure side stations are stocked throughout service.

• Promote daily specials, signature dishes, beverages, and desserts.
• Upsell menu items to maximise revenue.
• Encourage guests to explore additional food and beverage options.

• Process guest bills accurately using the POS system.
• Handle cash, card, and account payments securely.
• Balance receipts and complete end-of-shift procedures where required.
• Maintain accurate order records.

• Comply with food safety and hygiene regulations.
• Maintain high standards of personal hygiene and grooming.
• Ensure the restaurant remains clean and safe at all times.
• Follow health and safety policies and procedures.
• Report hazards or maintenance issues to management.

• Work closely with kitchen staff, bartenders, hosts, and supervisors.
• Assist colleagues during busy service periods.
• Attend team meetings and training sessions.
• Support banqueting and special events when required.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Minimum 1–2 years' experience as a Waiter in a hotel, lodge, resort, restaurant, or fine dining establishment.
• Experience in a luxury hospitality environment is advantageous.

• Hospitality or Food & Beverage qualification (preferred).
• Food Safety/HACCP Certification (advantageous).
• Responsible Alcohol Service training (advantageous).

• Strong knowledge of food and beverage service.
• Understanding of table service, buffet service, and banquet service.
• Basic wine, cocktail, and beverage knowledge.
• Experience using POS systems.
• Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards.
• Ability to carry trays and serve multiple tables efficiently.

• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills.
• Strong verbal communication skills.
• Professional appearance and grooming.
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure.
• Good organisational and time management skills.
• Attention to detail.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Problem-solving and conflict-resolution skills.

• Friendly, welcoming, and guest-focused.
• Honest, reliable, and punctual.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Calm and composed during busy service periods.
• Flexible and adaptable to operational requirements.
• Passion for hospitality and delivering outstanding guest experiences.

• Guest satisfaction and customer feedback scores.
• Speed and efficiency of service.
• Accuracy of food and beverage orders.
• Upselling and additional sales achieved.
• Compliance with food safety and hygiene standards.
• Restaurant cleanliness and presentation.
• Teamwork and attendance.
• Accuracy in billing and cash handling.

• Based in a hotel, lodge, resort, restaurant, or café.
• Requires standing and walking for extended periods.
• Flexible working hours, including shifts, evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Fast-paced environment with frequent interaction with guests.
• May be required to assist with banquets, weddings, conferences, and special events.