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If you’ve searched “busboy job description” online, you’ve probably seen the same thing over and over — a bland list of duties like “clear tables” and “refill water glasses.”
The problem?
Those posts might tell you what a busboy does, but they don’t help you attract a great one. They read like something copied from a training manual, not like a message to real people who might actually want to join your team.
A great busboy job post does more than list responsibilities — it shows why the role matters, who they’ll work with, and what they can expect from your workplace. That’s the difference between getting an inbox full of unmotivated applicants… and hiring someone who actually cares about their work.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly how to write a busboy job description that attracts reliable, hard-working, and team-focused candidates — plus give you ready-to-use templates, real examples, and tips to make your post stand out.
And if you want the full strategy behind writing job posts that actually convert, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/
Don’t let bad hires slow you down. WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What a Busboy Actually Does - Their Roles
A busboy (also called a busser) is the behind-the-scenes hero of a restaurant’s dining area. They keep tables clean, reset them quickly, and make sure servers have everything they need to give guests a great experience.
This role isn’t just about clearing plates — it’s about keeping the restaurant running smoothly during busy shifts. A great busboy is fast, attentive, and works well with both the front-of-house and kitchen teams.
In most restaurants, a busboy’s responsibilities include:
- Clearing and resetting tables between guests
- Refilling water glasses and bread baskets when needed
- Helping servers deliver food to tables
- Making sure the dining area stays clean and stocked
- Assisting with side tasks like polishing silverware or restocking napkins
While the work can be physically demanding, it’s also a great entry point into the hospitality industry. Many servers, bartenders, and even managers started out as bussers — learning the pace, teamwork, and customer focus it takes to thrive in restaurant service.
Two Great Busboy Job Description Templates
✅ Option 1: Job Description For Experienced Busboy
Job Title: Busboy/Buser — Copper Spoon Kitchen (Denver, CO)
Pay: $15.50–$18.00/hr + tip pool | Type: Full-Time/Part-Time | Schedule: Wed–Sun, evenings (weekend availability required)
🎥 A quick word from our GM (2 min): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
Copper Spoon Kitchen is a neighborhood brasserie in Denver’s LoHi district, known for seasonal plates, warm service, and a busy dining room that turns fast on weekends. We run a tight, friendly ship where everyone—from bussers to bartenders—helps create a smooth, unpretentious guest experience.
What You’ll Do
- Clear, sanitize, and reset tables quickly between seatings
- Refill waters and assist servers during peak rushes
- Keep the dining room, stations, and sidework areas stocked and tidy
- Run food as needed and support expo during pushes
- Communicate with hosts/servers to keep turns tight and wait times accurate
What We’re Looking For
- 6+ months in a busser/runner or similar FOH role
- Comfortable in a high-volume, fast-turn environment
- Team-first mindset and clear, calm communication
- Able to lift/carry up to 35 lbs and be on your feet for the full shift
Perks & Benefits
- Hourly + shared tip pool
- Family meal every shift
- Flexible scheduling (set-days possible after training)
- Paid sick time (CO-compliant)
- Health, dental, vision for full-time after 60 days
- Commuter stipend (monthly)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You like tempo—tight turns, quick resets, and a team that moves as one
- You’ll learn server-side flow and expo basics—great prep for moving up
- Tight-knit crew with zero drama expectations and clear feedback loops
How to Apply
We respect your time. We use WorkScreen to evaluate applicants on practical skills, not just résumés. Apply here: [WorkScreen link] and complete the short evaluation.
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level / Willing-to-Train Busboy
Job Title: Entry-Level Busboy — Copper Spoon Kitchen (Denver, CO)
Pay: $14.50–$16.50/hr + tip pool | Type: Part-Time/Full-Time | Schedule: Thu–Sun, evenings (great for students)
🎥 Meet your future teammates (90s): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
At Copper Spoon Kitchen, we believe great hospitality starts with great teamwork. We’re a high-energy LoHi brasserie serving seasonal comfort food with friendly, un-fussy service. If you’re reliable, quick on your feet, and want to learn the ropes of FOH, we’ll train you.
What You’ll Do
- Clear, sanitize, and reset tables so guests never wait on a clean seat
- Refill water and help servers keep sections humming
- Keep silverware, glassware, and stations stocked and polished
- Learn basic food running and how the pass/expo works
- Jump in where needed—because that’s how great teams operate
What We’re Looking For
- No experience required—we’ll teach you
- Positive attitude, coachable, shows up on time
- Comfortable moving fast and staying organized
- Able to lift/carry up to 35 lbs and stand for the full shift
Perks & Benefits
- Hourly + shared tip pool
- Family meal every shift
- Flexible hours (we’ll work around classes/second jobs)
- Paid sick time (CO-compliant)
- Pathways to hosting, running, or serving in 3–6 months
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Perfect first step into restaurants—learn real FOH skills fast
- Supportive leads who coach, not micromanage
- Clear growth path and regular feedback so you always know what’s next
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to give every applicant a fair shot. Apply here: [WorkScreen link] and complete the short evaluation so we can see your strengths.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache. WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Breakdown of Why These Busboy Job Posts Work
1. Clear, Specific Titles
Instead of “Busser Needed,” the titles tell you:
- The role (Busboy/Buser)
- The company (Copper Spoon Kitchen)
- The location (Denver, CO)
That instantly filters for people in the right place who know exactly what the job is.
2. Video Element for Connection
Both posts feature a short video from either the GM or the team. This is rare in job descriptions and gives applicants a face, voice, and vibe for the workplace — which builds trust and makes the listing more memorable.
3. Warm, Human “Who We Are” Section
Instead of a generic company overview, each version paints a quick picture of the restaurant’s personality — from its location to its food style to its team culture. It’s written like a real person talking, not a corporate press release.
4. Transparent Pay and Benefits
Hourly rates, tip pool eligibility, sick time, and other perks are listed clearly. This saves time for both the employer and candidate by setting expectations up front — and builds trust.
5. Responsibilities With Context
Tasks aren’t just listed; they’re framed around why they matter. For example:
“Clear, sanitize, and reset tables so guests never wait on a clean seat”
This ties the action directly to the guest experience, making the role feel purposeful.
6. Requirements That Match the Candidate Level
- The experienced version calls for 6+ months in a similar role.
- The entry-level version says no experience required, focusing instead on attitude and reliability.
This opens the door to the right type of candidate for each post without excluding good fits.
7. Separate “Perks & Benefits” and “Why This Role Is a Great Fit”
Perks are listed as tangible benefits (pay, meals, scheduling flexibility).
The “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” section appeals to emotion — tempo, team culture, growth path — so applicants can picture themselves thriving there.
8. Respectful, Modern Application Process
Using WorkScreen is presented as a time-saving, skills-first approach — and the employer clearly states they respect the applicant’s time. This shows the restaurant values fairness and efficiency.
9. Tone That Connects
The posts sound like a person wrote them, not a legal department. Words like “tight-knit crew,” “zero drama,” and “coach, not micromanage” create personality and differentiate the listing from bland, copy-paste ads.
Bad Busboy Job Description Example (And Why It Fails)
Job Title: Busboy
Location: Denver, CO
Type: Full-Time
Job Summary
We are looking for a busboy to clear tables and assist servers in a restaurant environment.
Responsibilities
- Clear tables after customers leave
- Refill water glasses when needed
- Keep dining area clean
Requirements
- High school diploma preferred
- Able to work nights and weekends
- Able to stand for long periods
How to Apply
Send your résumé to hiring@restaurant.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Why This Post Fails
- Generic Job Title
“Busboy” without the restaurant name or any personality tells you nothing about the workplace or why someone should apply here instead of the restaurant down the street. - Zero Personality in the Company Description
There’s no “Who We Are” section, no mention of culture, and no sense of what the restaurant is about — so there’s nothing for a candidate to connect with emotionally. - No Transparency on Pay or Benefits
Leaving out hourly rate, tip pool details, and perks feels outdated and signals a lack of openness, which can make serious candidates skip the listing entirely. - Responsibilities Are Too Vague
Tasks like “keep dining area clean” don’t tell candidates what success looks like or how the role contributes to the guest experience. - Requirements Don’t Match Role Reality
A high school diploma may be fine to mention, but it’s listed as the first requirement — which feels disconnected from the real skills needed (speed, teamwork, stamina). - Cold, Unwelcoming Application Process
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” feels dismissive and gives no timeline, making applicants less likely to engage. - No Reason to Apply
There’s no perks section, no growth path, no insight into the team. It reads like the employer is doing the applicant a favor — not the other way around.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Busboy Job Post Stand Out
Even with a strong template, adding small but thoughtful details can make a big difference in how candidates perceive your job post. Here are some ways to go beyond the basics:
1. Add an Important Security & Privacy Notice
Show candidates you take their information seriously.
Example:
We take the security and privacy of all job applicants very seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information during any part of the hiring process.
This builds immediate trust and sets you apart from restaurants that don’t address applicant safety.
2. Mention Leave Days or Flex Time
Hospitality work can be intense, so perks like time off stand out.
Example:
Enjoy up to 5 paid sick days a year, plus flexible scheduling options so you can recharge and come back ready to give guests your best.
3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Many bussers apply because they want to move into serving or bartending — speak directly to that.
Example:
We invest in your growth. From day one, you’ll get on-the-job training, mentorship from senior staff, and a clear path to move into server or host roles within 3–6 months.
4. Add a Video for Trust and Connection
A quick video from the GM or current staff can give candidates a feel for your culture before they apply. A 60–90 second Loom or YouTube video is enough to:
- Show the team in action
- Give a quick tour of the dining room
- Share what makes working there special
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
5. Include Small but Memorable Details
Mentioning unique staff traditions or perks helps your listing stand out.
Example:
Free family meal before every dinner shift, and a “post-service high five” tradition you’ll quickly get used to.
Why You Shouldn’t Let AI Write Your Busboy Job Post From Scratch
Lately, a lot of businesses have been turning to AI tools for “one-click” job descriptions. It sounds convenient — type in “Write me a busboy job post” and you’ve got something to copy-paste in seconds.
The problem?
That’s exactly how you end up with the same lifeless, copycat listings you see on every job board. Generic wording. No culture. No reason for a great candidate to choose you over the restaurant across town.
Your job post is the first impression of your restaurant. If it looks like every other ad, you’re not just blending in — you’re disappearing.
The Wrong Way to Use AI
Prompting AI with something like:
“Write a job description for a busboy at a restaurant.”
This will give you the same stale bullet points and corporate tone that won’t connect with real people — especially not the reliable, team-focused bussers you actually want to hire.
The Right Way to Use AI
Think of AI as your editor, not your author. Feed it real details about your restaurant so it can help you polish, not replace, your voice.
Here’s a better prompt:
“Help me write a busboy job description for Copper Spoon Kitchen, a neighborhood brasserie in Denver’s LoHi district. We’re known for seasonal comfort food, a tight-knit FOH team, and a fast-turn dining room on weekends. The role includes clearing/resetting tables, refilling water, running food, and supporting servers. We offer $15.50–$18.00/hr + tip pool, staff meals, flexible scheduling, health/dental/vision for full-time, and a growth path into serving roles. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes]. The tone should be warm, human, and emphasize teamwork and growth.”
Pro Tip:
Once AI gives you a draft, tweak it so it:
- Reflects your actual culture
- Matches your restaurant’s personality
- Includes perks, growth, and respect for the applicant’s time
That’s how you get a polished job post that still feels 100% yours.
WorkScreen simplifies the hiring process, helping you quickly identify top talent while eliminating low-quality applications. By saving you countless hours and reducing the risk of bad hires, it empowers you to build a team that delivers results
Copy-Paste Busboy Job Description for Quick Use
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Template
Job Title: Busboy/Buser — [Company Name] ([City, State])
Pay: $[Hourly Rate] + tip pool | Type: [Job Type] | Schedule: [Days/Hours]
🎥 A quick hello from our GM (2 min): [Insert Loom/YouTube link]
Who We Are
[Company Name] is a [brief description, e.g., neighborhood brasserie / family-style restaurant / upscale casual spot] known for [signature vibe/food] and a friendly, fast-moving team. We believe bussers are the heartbeat of a smooth shift—and we treat them that way.
What You’ll Do
- Clear, sanitize, and reset tables between seatings
- Refill water glasses and support servers during rushes
- Keep stations stocked and the dining room guest-ready
- Jump in to run food or support expo when needed
What We’re Looking For
- [Experience required or “No experience needed—training provided”]
- Quick, reliable, and comfortable on your feet
- Team-focused with a positive attitude
Perks & Benefits
- Hourly + tip pool
- Staff meal every shift
- Flexible scheduling
- Health/dental/vision for full-time after [X days] (if applicable)
Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- Join a tight-knit team with real support (not micromanagement)
- Learn FOH flow and build skills to move into serving/hosting
- Get clear feedback and real opportunities to grow
How to Apply
We respect your time. Apply via WorkScreen here: [WorkScreen link] — a quick skills-based evaluation that helps us get to know your strengths.
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Template
Job Title: Busboy/Buser — [Company Name] ([City, State])
Pay: $[Hourly Rate] + tip pool
Type: [Job Type]
Schedule: [Days/Hours]
Job Brief
[Company Name] is seeking a reliable busboy to keep our dining room running smoothly. You’ll clear and reset tables, assist servers, and help ensure every guest has a great experience.
Responsibilities
- Clear and reset tables quickly between guests
- Refill waters and assist servers as needed
- Keep the dining area clean and stations stocked
- Help run food and support other FOH tasks when needed
Requirements
- [“Previous busser/runner experience preferred” or “No experience required—training provided”]
- Ability to work [evenings/weekends/holidays, etc.]
- Strong teamwork and communication
- Physical stamina to stand for shifts and lift up to [X lbs]
Perks & Benefits
- Hourly + tip pool
- Staff meal every shift
- Flexible scheduling
- Health/dental/vision for full-time after [X days] (if applicable)
How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make hiring faster and fairer. Apply here: [WorkScreen link] and complete the short evaluation.
Streamline Your Busboy Hiring with WorkScreen
Once your job post is live, the next challenge begins — sorting through applications to find the people who are actually a good fit.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
With WorkScreen, you can:
- Quickly identify your most promising candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
- Easily run one-click skill tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
- Eliminate low-effort applications
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
Whether you’re hiring one busboy or building an entire FOH team, WorkScreen helps you hire faster, smarter, and with more confidence.
Start hiring smarter with WorkScreen.io today — create your busboy job post, share your unique link, and let WorkScreen handle the rest.
FAQ
Beyond basic clearing and cleaning, strong bussers have:
- Speed & efficiency – Quickly reset tables without disrupting guests.
- Attention to detail – Spot crumbs, smudges, or empty glasses before the customer does.
- Teamwork – Work seamlessly with servers, hosts, and kitchen staff.
- Situational awareness – Anticipate needs during peak hours and adjust without being told.
- Endurance – Stay energetic during long, busy shifts.
In the U.S., busboys typically earn $10–$16 per hour, with many also participating in a tip pool that can add $2–$6 per hour depending on the restaurant’s volume. Higher-end restaurants or busy urban locations often pay more.
A busboy focuses on clearing tables, resetting them, and keeping the dining area clean and stocked.
A food runner delivers dishes from the kitchen to the table. In smaller restaurants, the same person may perform both roles.
Yes — while they’re not typically the main point of contact, good bussers greet guests, answer quick questions, and maintain a friendly, helpful presence on the floor.
- Offer a clear path to promotion (e.g., hosting or serving)
- Recognize their work publicly during pre-shift meetings
- Share in the tip pool so they benefit directly from great service
- Rotate tasks to avoid monotony during slower periods
