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Waitress Resume Examples

Are you looking to make a career in the restaurant industry? Do you have the experience and skills needed to be successful as a waitress? Then having a well-crafted resume is essential. Writing a resume for a job in the restaurant industry can be tricky because competition is stiff and employers are looking for specific skills and experience. However, with the right tips and tricks, you can create a resume that will catch the eye of employers. This guide will give you an insight on how to write an effective waitress resume and provide you with examples of waitress resumes to use as inspiration.

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123 Main Street | Anytown, USA 99999 | Phone: (123) 456-7890 | Email: [email protected]

I am an experienced waitress who has worked in various settings ranging from casual restaurants to high- end establishments. I have a proven track record of providing excellent customer service, taking orders accurately, and managing tables efficiently. I am knowledgeable about food, wine, and spirits, and have a natural talent for creating an enjoyable dining experience.

Core Skills :

• Excellent customer service
• Accurate order taking
• Table management
• Food and wine knowledge
• Multi- tasking
• Problem solving

Professional Experience :

• Waitress, The Grille, May 2020 – Present
• Provide top- notch customer service and friendly, efficient service
• Accurately take orders and communicate with kitchen staff
• Professionally and efficiently manage tables
• Offer advice on food and wine pairings
• Resolve any customer complaints

Education :

• High School Diploma, 2020
• ABC High School, Anytown, USA

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Waitress Resume with No Experience

Highly enthusiastic and motivated Waitress eager to provide exceptional customer service and hospitality. A passionate individual with excellent communication and organizational skills. Looking for an opportunity to build a career in the hospitality industry.

• Outstanding interpersonal and customer service skills
• Excellent communication skills in both written and verbal forms
• Organized and efficient multi- tasker
• Strong problem- solving abilities
• Highly motivated to learn and grow
• Knowledgeable in food safety regulations

Responsibilities

• Greeted customers and presented them with menus
• Took orders and served food and drinks
• Checked customers’ IDs to ensure they meet minimum age requirements
• Addressed customer inquiries and concerns
• Processed cash, card, and other payments
• Cleaned and organized the dining area
• Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations
• Assisted in preparing food items when needed
• Provided excellent customer service by delivering a positive and friendly experience

Experience 0 Years

Level Junior

Education Bachelor’s

Waitress Resume with 2 Years of Experience

Highly motivated Waitress with 2 years of experience in the restaurant industry. Possessing strong customer service and communication skills, an outgoing personality and an ability to work in a fast- paced environment. Experienced in delivering excellent customer service to ensure customer satisfaction while taking orders, handling payments, and responding to customer inquiries.

• Excellent Customer Service
• Attention to Detail
• Strong Time Management
• Cashiering and Table Management
• Flexibility

Responsibilities :

• Greeting customers and taking orders
• Serving food and beverages
• Clearing tables and resetting for new customers
• Accurately ringing up orders and taking payments
• Maintaining knowledge of menu items and specials
• Providing excellent customer service and answering customer inquiries
• Ensuring a clean and organized dining area at all times

Experience 2+ Years

Waitress Resume with 5 Years of Experience

Friendly and experienced waitress with 5 years of work experience in hospitality- related industries. Skilled in providing outstanding customer service, taking orders, accurately handling payments and delivering exceptional dining experiences. Strong communicator with a knack for multitasking and keeping cool under pressure in high- volume settings.

• Customer service
• Menu knowledge
• Cash handling
• Food preparation
• Team collaboration
• Cleaning and sanitizing
• Greeted customers, answered questions, and took orders.
• Communicated with kitchen staff to ensure orders were correct.
• Delivered food to tables in a timely manner.
• Monitored customer satisfaction and addressed customer complaints.
• Ensured tables were properly set and sanitized.
• Assisted with food preparation.
• Accurately handled payments and reconciled cash drawers.
• Replenished drinks and condiments as needed.
• Communicated and maintained positive relationships with customers.

Experience 5+ Years

Level Senior

Waitress Resume with 7 Years of Experience

Experienced Waitress with 7 years of working in the hospitality industry. Possesses an excellent customer service record, knowledgeable in restaurant operations and experiences in order- taking and food and beverage service. Proficient in POS systems and cash handling. Possesses excellent communication and interpersonal skills to ensure customer satisfaction and a pleasant dining experience.

• Food and beverage service
• POS systems
• Order- taking
• Interpersonal communication
• Problem- solving
• Greet customers and present menus
• Suggest food and beverage items to customers
• Answer questions regarding menu items
• Take orders and enter them into the POS system
• Deliver food and beverages to customers
• Check on customer satisfaction throughout the meal
• Handle payments and cash transactions
• Handle customer complaints and provide solutions
• Clean and reset tables
• Ensure all restaurant regulations are met regarding hygiene and safety

Experience 7+ Years

Waitress Resume with 10 Years of Experience

I have 10 years of experience working in the hospitality industry as a waitress. I have extensive knowledge in providing excellent customer service, preparing and serving food and beverages, and handling cash transactions. I am an excellent team player and I am always willing to lend a hand when needed. I am also confident in my ability to multi- task and remain professional in a fast- paced environment.

• Proven ability to provide excellent customer service
• Knowledgeable in food and beverage preparation
• Skilled in managing cash transactions
• Demonstrated ability to multi- task
• Excellent team player
• Ability to remain professional in a fast- paced environment
• Greet and serve patrons in a friendly and professional manner
• Prepare and serve food and beverages to customers
• Restock and replenish supplies throughout the shift
• Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations
• Monitor customer satisfaction and take action to ensure customer satisfaction
• Handle cash and credit card transactions accurately and efficiently
• Assist with cleaning duties as needed

Experience 10+ Years

Level Senior Manager

Education Master’s

Waitress Resume with 15 Years of Experience

An experienced and customer service- focused waitress with 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry. Possesses an excellent record of providing outstanding customer service and working collaboratively with team members in a fast- paced environment. Demonstrates strong knowledge of food and beverage menus, table settings and sanitation guidelines. Committed to maintaining a professional and friendly demeanor at all times while delivering efficient and high- quality service.

• Excellent customer service skills
• Knowledge of food and beverage menus
• Time management
• Positive attitude
• Greet customers and take orders
• Prepare and serve food and drinks
• Check customer satisfaction with food and drinks
• Clean and clear tables and other areas
• Answer customer queries and resolve issues
• Follow all health and safety regulations
• Maintain up- to- date knowledge of menus and specials
• Collect payments from customers
• Ensure proper table settings

Experience 15+ Years

Level Director

In addition to this, be sure to check out our resume templates , resume formats ,  cover letter examples ,  job description , and  career advice  pages for more helpful tips and advice.

What should be included in a Waitress resume?

A waitress resume should include all the essential elements that make up a professional resume, including a summary and work experience section. To make your resume stand out from other applicants, here are some tips for what should be included:

• An informative summary that highlights your customer service skills, and any other applicable skills that make you a great waitress
• Relevant work experience in the food and beverage industry, such as experience as a waitress, bartender, or other similar roles
• Any certifications or licenses you have earned related to the food and beverage industry
• Your availability, such as the days and hours you are available to work
• Any special skills you might have, such as your ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously, handle difficult customers, or any other special skills that would make you a great waitress
• Any educational background that is relevant to the job, such as a hotel management degree or a degree in hospitality management
• Any awards or special recognition you have received for your work as a waitress, such as a customer service award
• References from previous employers who can speak to your qualifications for the position

By including all these elements, you will be able to create a comprehensive resume that will help you stand out from the competition and get the job as a waitress.

What is a good summary for a Waitress resume?

A waitress resume should be concise and include pertinent information about a candidate’s experience, skills and achievements. It should demonstrate an applicant’s ability to provide outstanding customer service and ensure the satisfaction of each patron. It should also include detail about any previous experience in the restaurant industry, such as working as a hostess or bartender, and any additional skills that would be beneficial to the position. Finally, it should outline any specific certifications or trainings that may make the candidate more qualified than other applicants. A good summary for a waitress resume will highlight a candidate’s experience, skills, and achievements that make them a great fit for the position.

What is a good objective for a Waitress resume?

A waitress resume should focus on the skills and qualities that make you a great candidate for the job. By using an objective, you can showcase the most important aspects of your candidacy. A good objective for a waitress resume should include:

• Highlighting your customer service skills: A great waitress is not only knowledgeable about the menu, but also provides top-notch customer service. Make sure to emphasize your ability to create positive customer experiences.
• Demonstrating your multitasking abilities: Working as a waitress is a fast-paced job that requires you to juggle multiple tasks at once. Let employers know that you can handle the pressure.
• Showcasing your time management skills: As a waitress, you must be able to manage your time well in order to keep up with customer demands. Show employers that you’re an organized and efficient worker.

By including these qualities in your resume objective, you’ll be sure to stand out as an excellent waitress candidate.

How do you list Waitress skills on a resume?

Creating a resume to showcase your Waitress skills can make the difference between getting the job and being overlooked. A well-crafted resume can showcase your ability to balance customer service with efficiency, multitasking, and effective communication skills.

To effectively list Waitress skills on your resume, include:

• Knowledge of Food Handling and Safety: Demonstrate your knowledge of food safety, preparation, and storage.
• Multitasking: Showcase your ability to manage multiple tasks at once.
• Customer Service: Showcase your ability to provide exceptional customer service by providing a friendly and welcoming environment.
• Interpersonal Skills: List your ability to interact with customers and co-workers in a professional manner.
• Problem-Solving: Demonstrate your skills in resolving customer service issues and conflicts.
• Cash Handling: Showcase your ability to manage cash transactions, make change, and balance registers.
• Menu Knowledge: List your ability to properly explain menu items and special offers.
• Product Knowledge: Showcase your knowledge of food items, ingredients, and cooking methods.

By using the above tips and listing your Waitress skills on your resume, you can make sure you stand out from the competition and land the job you want.

What skills should I put on my resume for Waitress?

Are you looking to be a waitress and want to include the right skills on your resume? Having the right skills on your resume will make sure that you stand out to potential employers. Here is a list of the most important skills to include on your resume when applying for a waitress position:

• Table Service: You should be able to provide excellent table service to customers, from taking orders to delivering food and beverages.
• Customer Service: You must be able to provide excellent customer service to guests, from greeting them to making sure their experience is positive.
• Knowledge of Menu: You should have a good understanding of the menu and the items it includes.
• Multi-Tasking: You need to be able to handle many tasks at once and prioritize them accordingly.
• Organizational Skills: You should be able to stay organized and manage your time efficiently.
• Cash Handling: You should be able to handle cash and credit card transactions accurately.
• Teamwork: You should be able to work well in a team environment, collaborating with other staff members.
• Problem-Solving: You should be able to quickly assess and resolve customer complaints.

These are the most important skills to include on your resume for a waitress position. Make sure to highlight your skills and qualifications that make you stand out from the competition. Doing so will make sure your resume stands out to potential employers and helps you get the job you want.

Key takeaways for an Waitress resume

When writing a waitress resume, it is important to include any pertinent information that can help you stand out from the competition. This includes education, experience, and skills that are specific to the role. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when crafting your waitress resume:

• Highlight your experience: Showcase your experience in the food service industry, such as in previous waitressing roles and any food-related certifications you may have. Demonstrate your knowledge of customer service and hospitality, as well as your ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Highlight your skills: List any relevant skills you may have, such as knowledge of food safety and being able to handle customer complaints. Also list any computer skills you have, such as familiarity with restaurant scheduling software.
• Include education: Include any education you have related to the service industry, such as culinary school or a food and beverage management degree. Also include any relevant certifications you may have, such as food safety certification.
• List your references: Include at least three professional references that can speak to your work ethic, experience, and skills.

By following these key takeaways, you can create a compelling waitress resume that will help you stand out from the competition. Showcase your experience, skills, and education, and include references who can vouch for your abilities. With a well-crafted resume, you can land your dream job as a waitress.

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15 Waitress Resume Examples [& Templates]

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• Waitstaff Resumes
• Waitress Resumes by Experience
• Waitress Resumes by Role

Waitress/Waiter Resume FAQs

It takes a village to raise a child and run a restaurant. Diners, cocktail lounges, and five-star restaurants—none could function without a strong service staff.

Waitresses and hostesses are the first contact points for incoming customers, so naturally, waitresses must be punctual, informative, and detail-oriented to excel in their roles. If you feel you have all those characteristics, you may have what it takes to be a fantastic waitress!

You just need to translate those skills and personality traits onto your waitress cover letter and resume. Believe us. We get it— making a resume  from scratch can be daunting, but  the following 15 waitress resume samples and  resume writing tips  can help you get moving down the path toward your dream waitress position in 2025 .

Waitress Resume

or download as PDF

Why this resume works

• If you mention being “customer-oriented,” that skill should be displayed in some of your bullet points.
• For example, saying that you “maintained a courteous attitude, ensuring shoppers enjoyed a positive experience” breathes life into what you already listed as a strength.
• Hiring managers love seeing your impact in previous roles, especially when you use metrics to quantify it in both your resume and when creating a cover letter .

Waiter Resume

• From there, you can showcase your ability to work with others to improve customer satisfaction and overall performance.

Waitress Resume No Experience

• For example, cashier, sales associate, and waitress positions are customer-facing and require you to be approachable and empathetic—two valuable soft skills you can apply to any job, not to mention—life!
• Your objective should describe your professional background in a nutshell, giving employers an idea of your skillset.
• Like the resume summary, the objective’s value comes from customization, so mention the name of the restaurant you’re applying to and why you’d like to join their team. 

Head Waitress Resume

• What is ATS? It’s the software employers use to sort candidates based on the number of keywords (skills) they have in common with the desired skills in the  job description . By including a relevant skills section, the ATS won’t spit out your resume. 
• What if you’re newer to your field and lack extensive work history? Weave in highly-relevant projects which can stand in as experience.
• The key to telling your work story via projects is to treat them like real work experience. List your projects in a bullet point format, laden with metrics to showcase your impact.

Waitress Server Resume

• The most important thing is setting yourself apart from the rest by providing realistic achievements accompanied by their measurable impact.

Bartender Waitress Resume

• Have the title on your resume match the role to which you’re applying. This helps the reader associate you with the job.
• Consider including a two-to-three-sentence  resume summary  if you boast at least 10+ years of industry expertise.
• Tailor your resume by mentioning the target employer by name and giving a concise but vivid snapshot of your years in the field and any specializations you’ve honed.

Cocktail Waitress Resume

• Unfortunately, it’s too easy to forget to list essential and basic information on your resume, but don’t fret! You can quickly  check if your resume has everything it needs .
• Even seemingly disconnected jobs you’ve had can be linked to waitress roles.
• For example, from a glance, a receptionist position at a law firm and a cocktail waitress role might seem like very distant cousins at best. Still, upon closer inspection, you’ll discover that both require excellent customer service and organizational skills.

Hostess Waitress Resume

• Stick with a professional template, but don’t be afraid to add a hint of color for style and interest. A dash of color lets the employer know you’re a professional with personality. 
• This structure lists your most recent work history at the top, followed by older experience, and gives the employer an easy-to-read synopsis of your best first. 

Bottle Service Waitress Resume

• Instead, determine whether a hobby or interest might be relevant enough to include.
• Imagine that a hiring manager brings up your hobby during an interview; whoa! Game changer? If you listed ice hockey on your resume, be prepared to demonstrate how that interest relates to your career aspirations as a bottle service waitress! Relevance is the key to successfully using  hobbies and interests on your resume . 
• We recommend sprinkling in numbers and stats to prompt employers to read your resume more thoroughly and provide hard evidence highlighting your successes. 

Restaurant Waitress Resume

• With the reverse chronological order, your last (or current) job should come at the top of the list, with the previous roles following suit. Does this really make your resume more enticing? Yes—it showcases your most recent wins first and matches the recruiter’s expectations for consistent career growth.

Hooters Waitress Resume

• Aah, so you utilized TouchBistro to manage online orders and increased 5-star reviews by 32% as a waitress at Hooters? That’s an excellent achievement in your resume because it says you’re good for business.

Waitress Cashier Resume

• Even at first glance, phrases like “$2,684 in daily transactions”, “36% bump in non-cash transactions”, and “42 guests per shift” in Elizabeth’s sales pitch catch your eye, right? By enabling recruiters to see your impact in previous roles, they also sell you as the ideal fit.

Waitress Trainer Resume

• Most applicants will highlight software like Moodle and Toast POS in their skills sections and leave it at that. Break the mold by putting the tools’ application in the spotlight in your work experience section—nothing shows you fit the bill better than that.

Upscale Waitress Resume

• All set? Make the most of a one-column layout, clear and legible fonts (think Calibri, Arial, Times New Roman, etc.), big, bolded headings, and snappy bullet lists. Enough white space is good, too; it creates a professional look that soothes the eye.

Nightclub Waitress Resume

• Images, large blocks of text, grammatical mistakes, and unnecessary personal details are the raw materials of an unprofessional sales pitch, so put out all the stops to ensure they don’t appear on it.

Related resume guides

• Restaurant Manager

Your job description points on your waitress or waiter resume should focus on aspects that matter most to the establishment you’re applying for. Likely those will be things like customer service, the ability to multi-task (dropping off food and beverages to multiple tables while carrying on conversation with diners), communicating specials, accurately placing orders, etc.

Try to focus primarily on hard skills in your skills list, such as POS systems like Toast or Square, cash handling and basic math, and any other technical skills like inventory or table management software. Soft skills should be seen in the context of your job description bullet points as you describe work where you were communicating, problem-solving, thinking critically, etc.

Think about your waitress/waiter resume less in terms of duties and more in terms of achievements. Yes, your duties included taking orders and bringing out food and drinks, but transform your bullet points into accomplishments. Discuss how you upsold more daily specials, handled cash with accuracy, took on more tables, and so on to go beyond just regurgitating job duties.

Take a look at the waitress job description for your cue on what job title to use in your resume. Some jobs may dub this role as “Server,” “Cocktail Waitress,” “Beverage Attendant,” or something else. Your best bet is to refer to the job description rather than try to come up with something creative here.

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• Resume and Cover Letter
• Waiter & Waitress Job...

Waiter & Waitress Job Description: All Key Roles & Duties

11 min read · Updated on November 07, 2024

Use this Waiter and Waitress job description for a job-winning resume.

Waiting tables is a great part-time or full-time career option for those wanting to make some extra cash, seeking to gain experience, or looking for a career path with flexibility and the opportunity to work throughout the country and world. If you're seeking a Waiter or Waitress job, you need a resume that does what it's supposed to do – land you interviews. 

To meet that goal, it's beneficial to refer to Waiter and Waitress job descriptions to help create your resume. In this post, we share a Waiter and Waitress job description and tips to help you craft a resume that's sure to turn heads.

What are the duties of a Waiter and Waitress?

Waiters and Waitresses have the critical job of greeting guests and ensuring they have a pleasant dining experience. Out of all of the types of positions at dining establishments, Waiters and Waitresses spend the most time with guests, making these roles fundamental to the success of the business. 

From ensuring their stations are clean and refilling drinks regularly to explaining menu options and sending special food requests to the kitchen, Waiters and Waitresses interact with dining guests on several levels. They're also responsible for providing guests with their bills and ensuring they receive the correct change or credit card receipt. 

Waiters and Waitresses are also assigned rotating opening and closing duties to support the entire wait staff. At the end of a shift, for example, they might be assigned to clean coffee pots, restock items, or clean the food runner station.  

What is the difference between a Waiter, Waitress, and Server?

The term “server” can be used interchangeably with the terms “waiter” and “waitress.” Servers, Waiters, and Waitresses all serve the same function of waiting on or serving guests at dining establishments. 

The term “waiter” refers to those identifying as male, and the term “waitress” refers to those identifying as female. The term “server” is gender-neutral and often considered more politically correct compared to “waiter” and “waitress.” However, many patrons and establishments still use these latter terms today. 

In what types of establishments do Waiters and Waitresses work?

Waiter and Waitress positions are available in numerous establishments serving food. You might find a Waiter and Waitress job description for any of the following types of dining experiences:

Casual restaurants

Fine-dining restaurants

Coffee shops

General bars

Convention centers

Banquet halls

As you research Waiter and Waitress job description, search for any of the following titles:

Cocktail Waiter or Waitress

Fine-dining Waiter or Waitress

Fine-dining Server

Cocktail Server

Waiter or Waitress

Food and Beverage Waiter or Waitress

Food and Beverage Server

Bar Waiter or Waitress

Head Server 

Head Waiter or Waitress

Banquet Waiter or Waitress

Banquet Server

Regardless of the type of Waiter or Waitress position you hold, most of the skills and job duties will be similar. However, you might require specialized skills for some establishments. For example, a Waiter or Waitress that works at a coffee shop might also need to know how to use an espresso machine, where this skill wouldn't be needed at establishments that didn't sell specialty coffee drinks. 

What are the five things a Waiter and Waitress must have?

There are several qualities a Waiter or Waitress must have to succeed in serving guests, making tips, and supporting the establishment. If we had to choose the five top required competencies, the following would be in the running: 

Customer service. Customer service is a must to meet the needs of guests. Customer service includes having strong interpersonal skills, the ability to actively listen, empathy, problem-solving skills, and more. 

Menu knowledge. It's frustrating for guests when a Waiter or Waitress can't answer their questions about the menu. And, if a Waiter or Waitress doesn't have a deep appreciation for menu items, it makes it challenging for them to do things like upsell, inform guests of their options, know ingredients for those with allergy concerns, and offer wine and cocktail options that complement meals. 

Effective and clear communication. To meet their needs and the needs of others, Waiters and Waitresses must be able to effectively communicate with guests, kitchen staff, other servers, hostesses, bartenders, bussers, and anyone else working in or visiting the restaurant. 

Positive attitude. Working in a dining establishment can be extremely rewarding, though it can come with a lot of challenges, as well. As such, it's essential and helpful for Waiters and Waitresses to  maintain a positive attitude to navigate the more challenging aspects of their jobs.

Work well under stress while multitasking. Waiters and Waitresses have a lot of tasks they're doing simultaneously or back to back, from greeting guests, refilling drinks, and cashing guests out to taking orders, communicating with the kitchen, and keeping up with their assigned tasks during their shifts. As a result, they have to be able to do these things efficiently and while staying calm.  

We cover several additional skills and qualities necessary for a Waiter or Waitress later in this post. 

Why use a Waiter and Waitress job description for resume development?

Reviewing a Waiter and Waitress job description provides three specific benefits in terms of your job search, including:

You can identify potential skills and experience gaps. If you're searching job descriptions and notice a common theme where you're missing a particular skill for the positions you most desire, you have the opportunity to remedy it. You can search for things like training courses, certifications, volunteering, and internships to help fill those gaps.

You learn what a particular employer is seeking. Reviewing a Waiter and Waitress Job description allows you to assess a bit about the company and what the employer is seeking – including credentials, skills , and experience – and whether you would be a good fit and enjoy working for that organization. 

You can identify keywords to help target your resume. As you explore job descriptions, you want to highlight the skills, experience, and training you have that meet what the employer is seeking. These highlights are the keywords you can use to target your resume for each job application.  

Wisely incorporating keywords into your resume is one way to create an ATS-friendly resume that gets past an employer's ATS or applicant tracking system. Keywords also catch the eye of hiring managers. 

Waiter and Waitress job description example

Let's now take a look at a Waiter/Waitress job description. As you review this job description, practice noticing the skills and experiences you have that align with the listed requirements. Also, pay attention to any skill gaps you might have, so you can work on those. 

Waiter/Waitress job description:

The Waiter/Waitress will take customer orders and serve food and beverages to guests in our restaurant. They're always aware of guest satisfaction to deliver the perfect service experience and ensure high-quality food and drinks to guests. 

Duties and responsibilities include, but are not limited to, servicing the guest in a friendly, efficient manner while maintaining a clean and safe work environment. Guests must feel welcome, comfortable, and well attended to at all times.

Waiter or Waitress duties and responsibilities:

Provide the perfect service experience for restaurant patrons

Ensure the guest feels important and welcome in the restaurant

Ensure hot food is hot and cold food is cold

Adhere to timing standards for products and services

Look for ways to consolidate service and increase table turns

Present menu, answer questions, and make menu recommendations

Serve customers in an accommodating manner

Must know all food, liquor, beer, wine, and retail offered

Apply positive suggestive sales approach to guide guests

Pre-bus tables, maintain table cleanliness, bus tables, and remove dirty plates

Look for ways to avoid waste and limit costs

Assist in keeping the restaurant clean and safe

Provide responsible service of alcoholic beverages

Deliver food and beverages to any table as needed

Must follow all cash handling policies and procedures

Report to property on time and in proper uniform

Process payments of food and drink orders with the cash register

Coordinate with kitchen staff to deliver accurate food orders

Waiter or Waitress job requirements:

Must be of legal age to serve alcoholic beverages 

Must have all certifications and licenses as required by local Health Department and Alcoholic Beverage Commission statutes, including a Food Handlers Card

Must have clear written and verbal communication skills

Must have the physical abilities to carry out the functions of the job description

Must be able to responsibly handle cash transactions

Must be able to consolidate and coordinate needs for all tables within their station

Must be able to carry food and beverages

Must be able to work in a team environment

Must attend food safety training 

High school diploma or equivalent; college degree preferred

At least one year experience as a food server within a restaurant, hotel, or conference center operation

Any related customer service/oriented experience will be considered

Ability to comprehend and effectively communicate in fluent English

Waiter and Waitress skills & proficiencies

Several hard and soft skills are necessary to be a successful Waiter or Waitress, and your resume needs to showcase these skills to land interviews. Soft skills are the people skills required to get along well with others. Unlike hard skills, they're not easily measured. We can improve our soft skills through professional and personal experiences and training. 

Hard skills are the technical skills you need to complete necessary job functions. They are measurable and objective. We acquire hard skills through education and training. 

Let's look at some of the most in-demand skills employers seek in a Waiter or Waitress, broken down by hard and soft skills. 

Hard skills for a Waiter or Waitress

Selling to Customer Needs

Physical Strength

Point-of-sale Systems

Food Safety

Food Handlers Card certification

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Association) standards

Food and Beverage Knowledge

Soft skills for a Waiter or Waitress

Verbal Communication

Excellent Customer Service

Conflict Resolution

Problem-solving

Persistence

High Energy

Thoroughness

Professionalism

Interpersonal Relationships

Social Perceptiveness

Positive Attitude

Dependability

High Stress Tolerance

Adaptability

Flexibility

Time Management

Organization

Good Memory

How can AI help craft my Waiter/Waitress resume?

Some struggle to come up with the right keywords and content to include in their resume. If this defines you, AI might be able to help. Though it's not ever recommended to submit an AI-generated resume, AI can serve the purpose of helping you determine what's best to include in your resume. An AI tool like ChatGPT can analyze various job descriptions and the content that stands out in them. It can also analyze various sections of your resume and help identify keywords for you to use, as well

Should I put Waiter or Waitress on my resume?

This post is geared toward those seeking a Waiter or Waitress position, and it goes without saying that if you're seeking a Waiter or Waitress position, then you definitely want to include your past experience in those types of roles on your resume. 

For future reference, if you're seeking a different type of position, then it depends. If a Waiter or Waitress position is clearly relevant to the position you're applying to, include it. If not, then you should forgo including it in most instances, especially if you have plenty of other relevant experience. 

However, if you're changing careers or are an entry-level candidate, it could be worth including your role as a Waiter or Waitress due to the transferable skills required for the position. Holding down a Waiter or Waitress job shows you have interpersonal, time management, multitasking, and organizational skills, for example. It also shows you can do basic math and work well under pressure. 

If you need to showcase these types of skills and have limited experience to do so, then including a Waiter or Waitress position on your resume makes sense. 

Use Waiter and Waitress job descriptions to enhance your resume

You now have a Waiter and Waitress job description and list of skills to help guide the creation and updating of your resume. Allow your skills to shine and stand out to land a job waiting tables today!

Is your resume ready to submit to employers? If you're unsure, why not take advantage of our free resume review to receive valuable insights and tips to help you stand out in your job search.

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Restaurant Waitress Job Description, Key Duties and Responsibilities

This post provides detailed information on the restaurant waitress job description, including the key duties, tasks, and responsibilities they commonly perform.

It also highlights the major requirements that individuals seeking the role of a restaurant waitress may be expected to fulfill to be hired for the job.

What Does a Restaurant Waitress Do?

The waitress in a restaurant serves orders placed by the customers, offers food and drinks to the clients, and sees that the guests feel their utmost comfort and satisfaction during the dine-out experience.

According to Workable, waitresses are the professionals you find in restaurants, bars, and other places where food and drinks are served that greet guests as they come in and take their meal orders, as well as make sure the communication between the kitchen and the dining area is clear.

Waitresses very often act as the main point of contact between the customer and the facility and may be key in providing customer service experiences.

In general, the restaurant waitress is under the control of the manager or shift supervisor.

In larger establishments, they may also report to a head server or maître d’.

In reality, the hierarchy could go any way depending on size and type of establishment, but usually waitresses work in close contact with kitchen staff, bartenders, and other servers for proper function and service.

Restaurant waitresses can be found in fine dining restaurants, casual dining restaurants, cafes and bistros, hotels and resorts, catering services, and cruise ships.

They are in demand all over the industries, nearly in every city or town.

A High School diploma or its equivalent is required to be hired as a restaurant waitress.

Although it is not strictly necessary, some employers call for it.

On-the-job training is most important, though, to introduce the new waitress into the way operations run at that particular restaurant, the menu, and the service standards.

While not necessary, certifications can give the waitress an edge in finding employment.

An example is the Food Handler’s Permit or a responsible beverage service certification if the establishment serves alcohol.

The waitress’ key responsibilities include receiving and seating guests, presenting menus, describing specials, and accurately taking orders for food and beverages.

Other duties entails serving food and beverages in a timely manner, processing payments, and handling cash or credit transactions, as well as resolving customer complaints.

In addition to the general responsibilities of a waitress, those that work in restaurants may be required to set up and tear down the tables and perform side work of restocking supplies or cleaning.

They also carry out event setups in banquet-style service and training for new staff.

Waiting at restaurants is a universally important job, though with slight variations, depending on individual country.

For instance, in the United States, much of the waitress’ income relies on the tipping culture.

In other countries, such as Japan, there is no tipping, and immaculate service comes into play.

While the duties remain similar across borders, the standards and expectations of customer service can change.

Employers of restaurant waitresses would normally look for people who can articulate well, pay attention to detail with closeness, and work in a fast-moving environment.

Most desirable in a waitress is a friendly and approachable demeanor backed by the ability to remember customer orders and preferences, and being reliable and possessing a good work ethic.

Waitresses must also follow all national and local laws, particularly those regarding food safety and service of alcohol.

Perhaps, one of the most important regulating agencies in the United States of the restaurant waiting profession is the National Restaurant Association .

It gives guidelines and several certifications involving the handling of food.

Also, the ServSafe program issues a few certifications among food safety and responsible alcohol serving.

Many employers like these certifications or will get them for their employees upon hiring them.

Restaurant Waitress Job Description Example/Sample/Template

The job description of a restaurant waitress usually consists of the following tasks, duties, and responsibilities:

• Greet and welcome customers as they arrive for their meal and take them to a table
• Present menus to guests and describe the daily specials/sales
• Take accurate orders from customers by jotting down every diet requirement or restriction
• Place orders into the point-of-sale system with both speed and accuracy
• Serve food and beverages to customers efficiently and ensure that they are constantly attended to
• Check back with customers to ensure satisfaction with meal and address problems
• Perform second rounds, refills on drinks and other additional services
• Clear tables and prepare for the next set of guests
• Handle customer complaints professionally by involving the manager whenever possible
• Assist in setting up the restaurant for the next shift by cleaning and organizing it
• Work with kitchen staff to ensure that orders are prepared correctly and delivered in a timely manner
• Process guest check using cash, credit card, or gift certificate
• Operate cash register, count change, and process tips
• Thank guests for dining with restaurant and invite them to return
• Complete opening/closing side work, including setup/teardown of dining room
• Answer questions concerning menu items, seasonal specials, and special dishes
• Upsell additional items and wine/food pairing suggestion to enhance guest’s dining experience
• Maintain a clean and safe environment that meets standards for good food handling and hygiene
• Help other colleagues when the service is very busy
• Perform special functions, such as private parties, weddings, or corporate functions with customized services
• Restock the service stations when necessary with supplies, such as napkins, utensils, and condiments
• Assist in training new employees with restaurant procedures and customer service standards
• Team meetings and training: Keep informed of restaurant policies
• Dining room cleanliness: maintain the dining room, tables, floors, and restrooms in a clean and presentable manner.

Restaurant Waitress Job Description for Resume

If you are making a new resume or CV as someone who has worked previously or presently working in the role of restaurant waitress, then you can make a compelling Professional Experience section for your resume by applying the sample restaurant waitress job description provided above.

You can highlight the duties and responsibilities you have carried out or currently performing as a restaurant waitress in your Professional Experience by utilizing the ones presented in the above job description template.

This will show that you have been successful performing the duties and responsibilities of a restaurant waitress, which can greatly enhance your chances of getting hired for the new position that you are seeking, especially if it requires someone with some restaurant waitress work experience.

Restaurant Waitress Requirements: Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities for Career Success

To be effective in your job as a waitress in a restaurant, you need to have certain skills, knowledge, and abilities.

These are also usually required by employers/recruiters and they include:

• Customer service skills: Being warm and friendly
• Approachable: Able to establish a rapport with customers
• Attention to detail: To ensure accuracy in ordering and in customer needs
• Communication skills: To communicate clearly with both customers and kitchen staff and avoid errors
• Multitasking ability: Waitresses usually take care of a number of tables all together. This means they must be methodical and efficient in all their tasks
• Physical stamina: Physically, the job is demanding as one might have to stand for long periods and walk around most of the time
• Problem-solving skills: Waitresses should handle customer complaints accordingly and find solutions quickly
• Time management: Timely serving of food may allow customers to enjoy it at its best
• Teamwork: Waitresses generally work in a team, so being a good team player helps
• Knowledge of food and beverage: Knowing the menu, ingredients, and methods of preparation helps in responding to customers and making recommendations
• Basic mathematics skills: Payments should be handled accurately with correct change being returned.

Restaurant Waitress Employment

According to the May, 2023 report by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS, there were 2,237,850 waiters and waitresses in employment in the United States.

However, the survey data on Zippia shows that there are presently 1,609,224 employed waitresses in the U.S. with 80.1% of them women and 19.9% men.

Restaurant Waitress Employment by Industry

The BLS data shows the industries that employ the largest number of waiters and waitresses in the United States to include:

Restaurant Waitress: Industries with Highest Employments. Data from U.S. BLS

Restaurant Waitress Employment by State

As reported by Zippia, the States that employ the highest number of waitresses in the U.S. include Texas and Florida, with 4,206 and 3,890 employments respectively.

Restaurant Waitress Salary

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics gives the average annual salary for waiters and waitresses in the United States in 2023 as $36,530.  

However, the Zippia data shows that waitresses presently earn a yearly salary of $24,770 on the average.  

Restaurant Waitress Salary by State

The BLS data shows the States that pay the highest salaries to waiters and waitresses in the U.S. to include Vermont and Washington, with average yearly salaries of $60,200 and $57,960 respectively.

Restaurant Waitress Job Satisfaction

Recently, a study conducted by Ohio State University mapped worrying levels of job satisfaction for restaurant employees, including waitresses.

According to the findings, almost half the population sampled showed low levels of job satisfaction.

On the other hand, 25% had average satisfaction while another quarter showed high satisfaction levels in their jobs.

This study involved 798 non-managerial workers from a casual restaurant chain in over 50 locations.

Key findings of the survey include:

• Restaurant employees are least satisfied with pay and opportunities for advancement but are satisfied with job security and serving customers.
• Overall, females, older employees, and newer employees are most satisfied.
• Employee empowerment may be related to morale.

This post gives a detailed explanation of the restaurant waitress job description and helps both the waitress-to-be and the employer with lots of valuable information.

They can learn the main duties and responsibilities of a restaurant waitress, the skills and qualifications required to be hired for the role, and the employment outlook and salary expectation.

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Waitress Resume Example and Writing Guide

In the competitive world of hospitality, a well-crafted resume is essential for showcasing your skills and experience as a waitress.

This guide provides a comprehensive example of a waitress resume along with frequently asked questions and tips to help you create your own standout document.

Sample Waitress Resume

123 Maple Street Springfield, IL 62701 (555) 123-4567 [email protected]

Dedicated and friendly waitress with over 5 years of experience in high-volume restaurants. Committed to delivering excellent customer service and ensuring a positive dining experience. Seeking to leverage my skills and expertise to contribute to the success of Bella Italia.

Key Achievements

• Awarded “Employee of the Month” at The Rustic Table three times for outstanding customer service and teamwork.
• Increased average tips by 20% through personalized service and consistency in hospitality.

Waitress The Rustic Table, Springfield, IL June 2019 – Present

• Greet and seat up to 50 customers per shift, providing an inviting first impression.
• Take food and beverage orders for an average of 10-15 tables during peak hours, ensuring a customer satisfaction rate of over 90%.
• Maintain knowledge of menu items, daily specials, and promotions, resulting in a 15% increase in upselling and specials sold.
• Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure timely and accurate order delivery, reducing table wait times by 20%.
• Handle cash and credit transactions, successfully balancing the register with an accuracy rate of 99.9% at the end of shifts.

Waitress Sunny Side Café, Springfield, IL March 2016 – May 2019

• Provided exceptional service in a fast-paced environment, managing up to 8 tables at once during peak meal periods.
• Assisted with training 5 new staff members on company policies and service standards, helping to reduce onboarding time by 30%.
• Managed inventory of supplies, leading to a 10% decrease in food waste through effective reporting to management.
• Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally, achieving a 95% customer return rate.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong multitasking and organizational abilities
• Proficient in point-of-sale (POS) systems
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

High School Diploma Springfield High School, Springfield, IL Graduated: 2015

Available upon request.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. what key skills should i highlight on my waitress resume.

Focus on customer service, multitasking, communication, and familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems.

2. How can I make my resume stand out?

Include quantifiable achievements, such as customer satisfaction rates and tips increased, to demonstrate your impact in previous roles.

3. Should I include references on my resume?

It’s not necessary to include references on your resume. You can simply state “Available upon request” instead.

4. How long should my waitress resume be?

Aim for a one-page resume. This allows you to present your most relevant experience without overwhelming potential employers.

A waitress resume plays a crucial role in making a strong first impression. By incorporating your skills, experience, and achievements, you’ll enhance your chances of landing an interview and securing your desired position in the hospitality industry.

Maria L. “Great tips! I followed your guide and revamped my resume, and I got an interview within a week!”

James T. “I had no idea quantifying my experience would make such a difference. Thanks for the insights!”

Sophie R. “This waitress example resume is exactly what I needed. It’s clear and easy to follow.”

Alex P. “Fantastic resource! It is very helpful for someone new to writing resumes.”

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• Restaurant Waitress Resume Sample
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