Position: Head Server
Reports To: Restaurant Manager
Job Summary:
The Head Server is responsible for managing the daily operations of the front-of-house service, ensuring excellent customer experience, and leading the waitstaff team. This role involves supervising service, assisting with staff training, and acting as a liaison between customers, kitchen staff, and management.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Team Leadership:
- Lead and motivate the service staff, ensuring adherence to restaurant standards.
- Train new servers on menu items, service protocols, and customer service skills.
- Create and manage work schedules to ensure sufficient coverage during peak hours.
2. Customer Service:
- Greet and welcome guests, ensuring they are comfortable and their needs are attended to promptly.
- Handle customer inquiries, complaints, and special requests effectively.
- Provide recommendations and upsell menu items when appropriate.
3. Operational Duties:
- Ensure smooth service by coordinating with kitchen and bar staff.
- Oversee table assignments, reservations, and seating arrangements.
- Assist in maintaining cleanliness and organization of the dining area.
4. Quality Assurance:
- Monitor food and drink quality, ensuring all items meet restaurant standards.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Manage service during high-volume periods and address any challenges that arise.
5. Reporting and Administrative Tasks:
- Handle customer payments, process bills, and manage cash or credit transactions.
- Maintain inventory of service-related items (e.g., cutlery, glassware, linens).
- Report issues to the manager, including supply shortages or maintenance needs.
Requirements:
- Experience: Minimum 5-7 years in a server or supervisory role within a local Vancouver fine dining or high-volume restaurant.
- Skills:
- Strong leadership and team-building capabilities.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to handle stressful situations and maintain professionalism.
- Customer-focused attitude and attention to detail.
- Knowledge:
- Understanding of restaurant operations and service protocols.
- Basic knowledge of food and beverage, including wine pairing.
- Physical Requirements:
- Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Qualifications:
- Certification in food safety or hospitality.
- Serving it right certificate
- Experience in training or mentoring junior staff.
Job Types: Full-time, Temporary, Permanent
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Flexible schedule
- Store discount
Schedule:
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Holidays
- Monday to Friday
- Night shift
- Weekends as needed
Experience:
- bartending: 1 year (preferred)
- serving or head server: 5 years (required)
Licence/Certification:
- Food Safe (preferred)
- Smart Serve, SIR or equivalent (required)
Location:
Work Location: In person