Updated June 05, 2023
A server, also known as a waiter or waitress, is a member of the front-of-house staff in a food establishment. They are responsible for fulfilling the food and drink orders of all customers. They report to the front-of-house manager and usually are tipped employees, which means that they may collect additional funds on top of their normal salary.
Salary (Median Pay)
For waiters and waitresses:
- Salary: $23,740/yr
- Hourly Rate: $11.42/hr
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
Duties and Responsibilities
- Answer questions about the menu;
- Communicate customer orders with kitchen staff;
- Help clean;
- Maintain working knowledge of the menu, including additions and deletions;
- Problem-solve customer complaints;
- Processes customer payments;
- Provide consistent, attentive customer service;
- Recommend menu items; and
- Takes customer food orders.
Qualifications
- Ability to handle money;
- Ability to maintain composure under pressure;
- Customer service experience;
- Efficient note-taking skills;
- Friendly;
- High school diploma; and a
- Positive attitude.