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If you’ve Googled “food runner job description,” you’ve probably seen the same format repeated across dozens of sites:
- Bullet points.
- Generic responsibilities.
- No personality.
- Zero insight into what actually makes someone great at the role.
And while those templates check the boxes, they don’t actually help you attract the right people—they just fill space.
Here’s the truth:
The best candidates don’t apply to lifeless job posts.
They’re drawn to opportunities that feel real, human, and worth their time.
If you want to hire someone who’s dependable, fast-moving, and great with people—you need more than a bland template.
You need a job post that speaks to them, not just about them.
So in this article, we’ll walk you through:
- What the food runner role actually involves (beyond just “running food”)
- Two complete job description templates (one for experienced candidates, one for willing-to-train)
- A breakdown of why these job posts work
- What to avoid (with a real-world “bad job post” example)
- Plus: bonus tips, FAQs, and a copy-paste template you can tailor in minutes
And if you’re serious about hiring better, we also recommend reading our full guide:
full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/
Let’s get into it 👇
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
What Does a Food Runner Actually Do?
A food runner is the crucial link between the kitchen and the dining area.
They don’t just “run food”—they make sure every plate leaves the kitchen looking perfect, arrives at the right table on time, and is served with a smile. They support servers, keep the flow moving during busy shifts, and help the entire front-of-house team deliver a great guest experience.
In other words:
A great food runner is fast, observant, and calm under pressure.
They know how to hustle without losing their cool—and they’re always ready to jump in wherever they’re needed.
While the role is often entry-level, it plays a big part in keeping service running smoothly. Whether it’s a fine-dining restaurant or a busy café, the best food runners are the unsung heroes behind a seamless dining experience.
Two Great Food Runner Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Experienced Food Runner Job Description
📌 Job Title: Experienced Food Runner Needed at Blue Oak Bistro (Evenings & Weekends)
💼 Part-Time | $16–$18/hr + Shared Tips | In-Person | Downtown Austin
🎥 A Quick Word From the Team
Here’s a short video from our front-of-house manager, Jenny, explaining what it’s like to work here and what we look for in a great food runner:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Who We Are
Blue Oak Bistro is a chef-owned restaurant in downtown Austin serving modern American comfort food with a seasonal twist. For over 8 years, we’ve built a reputation for warm hospitality, exceptional food, and a tight-knit team that has each other’s backs—even on the busiest nights. Our dining room seats 60, and we average 250 covers on weekends, so speed, attention to detail, and communication are essential.
We’re not just looking for someone who can run food—we want someone who’s part of the rhythm that keeps our service sharp and seamless.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Deliver plates from kitchen to table quickly, correctly, and courteously
- Double-check orders for presentation and accuracy
- Communicate with servers and kitchen to stay in sync during service
- Help bus, reset, and restock as needed
- Move with urgency, professionalism, and a guest-first mindset
What We’re Looking For
- 6+ months experience as a food runner, server assistant, or busser
- Ability to move fast without sacrificing detail
- Strong communication and team coordination
- Evening/weekend availability required
- Able to lift up to 25 lbs and stay on your feet for long periods
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Shared tips from every shift
- Free staff meal + 50% employee discount when off-shift
- Flexible part-time scheduling (3–4 shifts/week)
- Family-style staff meetings and weekly service debriefs
- Access to tastings and menu previews with the kitchen team
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You won’t be invisible here.
At Blue Oak, food runners are essential, not afterthoughts. You’ll be part of a crew that trusts and respects each other, where your hustle gets noticed and your ideas are welcomed. If you’re reliable, fast-moving, and serious about hospitality, this is a place where you can grow.
📥 How to Apply
We care more about how you show up than what’s on your résumé.
That’s why we use WorkScreen to make the process quick, fair, and skill-based. Click below to complete a short evaluation—we’ll be in touch shortly.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
✅ Option 2: Entry-Level / Willing to Train Food Runner Job Description
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Food Runner (No Experience Needed — We’ll Train You!) at The Harvest Table
💼 Full-Time or Part-Time | $15–$17/hr + Tips | In-Person | Brooklyn, NY
🎥 Meet the Team
Here’s a short welcome message from our general manager, Marcus, sharing what it’s like to work at The Harvest Table and how we support new hires from day one:
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube Link]
Who We Are
The Harvest Table is a neighborhood restaurant in Prospect Heights, Brooklyn known for our fresh, seasonal menu and genuinely friendly service. We seat about 80 guests and serve brunch, lunch, and dinner with a focus on local ingredients and laid-back charm. Many of our staff started in entry-level roles and grew into long-term careers here.
We’re now hiring a food runner who’s eager to learn, ready to move, and wants to be part of a team that works hard and has fun doing it.
What You’ll Learn and Do
- Deliver food quickly and accurately from kitchen to tables
- Double-check plate presentation and ticket orders
- Help reset and clean tables between guests
- Communicate clearly with the kitchen and waitstaff
- Support wherever needed to keep the dining room running smoothly
What We’re Looking For
- No experience required—we’ll train you
- You show up on time, ready to work, and willing to learn
- Friendly, observant, and comfortable in a busy setting
- Able to stand and move for several hours per shift
- Available for at least 3 shifts/week (including weekends)
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Shared tips distributed after every shift
- Free shift meal + 40% off when dining with friends/family
- Paid training and regular feedback check-ins
- Mental health day once per quarter (paid day off)
- Opportunities to move into hosting or serving roles
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This is a great first step into hospitality. You don’t need experience—just the right mindset.
At The Harvest Table, we value curiosity, teamwork, and accountability. You’ll be supported from day one, gain experience that opens doors, and be part of a respectful crew that works like a unit. If you’ve got a strong work ethic and a good attitude, this could be the start of something long-term.
📥 How to Apply
We want to understand what you’re like—not just what you’ve done.
Click below to complete a short WorkScreen evaluation. It’s fast, fair, and designed to help you shine. No cover letter required.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Breakdown of Why These Food Runner Job Posts Work
Let’s break down what makes both job descriptions effective—and why they’re more likely to attract serious, high-quality candidates compared to generic templates.
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Targeted
Instead of saying just “Food Runner,” the titles clarify:
- Who it’s for (e.g., “Experienced” or “Entry-Level – We’ll Train You”)
- Where it’s located (e.g., “Downtown Austin” or “Brooklyn, NY”)
- What to expect (e.g., “Evenings & Weekends”, “Full-Time or Part-Time”)
Why it works:
This helps candidates self-qualify and instantly improves post relevance, especially on job boards and search results.
✅ 2. The Video Message Adds a Human Touch
Including a short video from a team member or manager gives applicants:
- A peek behind the curtain
- A sense of who they’ll be working with
- A reason to feel welcomed before applying
Why it works:
It builds trust, stands out from text-only posts, and appeals to candidates who care about workplace vibe and leadership style.
✅ 3. The “About Us” Section Builds Emotional Connection
Each company intro paints a quick picture:
- Blue Oak Bistro focuses on hospitality, high volume, and strong teamwork.
- The Harvest Table leans into mentorship, community, and career growth.
Why it works:
It goes beyond facts. It gives candidates a reason to care about where they’re applying—something missing in most job posts.
✅ 4. Duties Are Framed Around Impact and Flow
Instead of listing tasks like a checklist, the responsibilities show:
- Why each task matters to the guest experience
- How the food runner fits into the bigger service rhythm
Why it works:
It helps the candidate visualize the role and its value—not just what they’ll do, but why it matters.
✅ 5. Transparent Expectations in the Requirements
The experienced version clarifies:
- Physical demands
- Shift expectations
- Communication skills required
The entry-level version reassures:
- No experience needed
- Positive traits over credentials
- Flexible scheduling
Why it works:
Being upfront filters mismatches early and encourages qualified candidates who might otherwise hesitate.
✅ 6. Perks & Benefits Are Listed Separately and Clearly
Candidates see:
- Tips and meals
- Scheduling flexibility
- Growth paths
- Wellness perks (e.g., mental health day)
Why it works:
Most job posts skip or bury benefits. Listing them separately shows respect for candidates’ priorities and helps sell the opportunity.
✅ 7. The “Why This Role Is a Great Fit” Section Makes a Case
This section:
- Reframes the role as important
- Signals appreciation and room to grow
- Speaks directly to the kind of teammate you’re looking for
Why it works:
It’s your pitch. And it’s authentic—not just “we’re like a family,” but real reasons to join.
✅ 8. The Application Process Is Respectful and Modern
Instead of a vague “apply via email” or cold “only shortlisted will be contacted,” both posts:
- Use WorkScreen for fairness
- Explain what to expect
- Respect candidates’ time and effort
Why it works:
It gives applicants confidence in your process. And it shows that you care about finding a fit—not just filling a shift.
Bad Food Runner Job Post Example (And Why It Fails)
Let’s look at what a generic, outdated job description looks like—and why it completely fails to attract quality candidates.
❌ Bad Food Runner Job Description Example
📌 Job Title: Food Runner
Company: CityView Hospitality
Location: Chicago, IL
Job Type: Part-Time
Job Summary
CityView Hospitality is looking to hire a food runner for one of our restaurant locations. The ideal candidate will deliver food orders from the kitchen to tables in a timely manner. Other duties may be assigned as needed.
Duties & Responsibilities
- Deliver food to guests
- Communicate with servers
- Clear tables
- Other tasks as assigned
Requirements
- Must be 18+
- Prior experience preferred
- Able to lift trays and stand for long periods
- Available on weekends
Compensation
To be discussed during the interview.
How to Apply
Email your resume to jobs@cityview.com. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
❌ Why This Post Fails
1. Generic Title
“Food Runner” is too vague. There’s no mention of location specificity, experience level, or why someone should care. It doesn’t stand out in search results or job boards.
2. Cold and Robotic Tone
The entire post reads like it was copied from a policy manual. There’s no warmth, no personality, and no effort to connect with the type of person they want to hire.
3. No Insight Into Culture or Mission
Who are they? What kind of place is it to work? What do they care about? There’s zero context about the team, environment, or company vibe.
4. Missing Compensation Transparency
“Discussed during interview” is a red flag. It signals a lack of clarity or fairness and drives away serious applicants—especially when other listings are up-front about pay.
5. Bare Minimum Responsibilities
“Other tasks as assigned” is filler. None of the duties are described with impact or meaning, and the list doesn’t help the candidate visualize a day in the role.
6. Dismissive Application Process
“Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted” feels impersonal and outdated. It suggests the company doesn’t value applicants’ time or effort.
7. No Motivation or Pitch to Apply
There’s no “why”—no reason for a great candidate to choose this job over hundreds of others.
🧠 Bottom Line:
This kind of post attracts:
- Low-effort applicants
- People applying to any job, not this one
- Candidates who won’t stay long or care much
It repels:
- Motivated, service-minded professionals
- Candidates who want growth, respect, or culture
- Anyone looking for a job that means something
Bonus Tips to Make Your Food Runner Job Post Stand Out
Once you’ve nailed the basics—title, duties, perks, and tone—there are a few extra details you can add to really elevate your job post.
These small touches build trust, show professionalism, and make candidates feel respected before they even apply.
✅ 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice
This shows candidates you take their data and safety seriously—especially in a world full of job scams.
Example:
🛡️ Important Notice: We will never ask for sensitive personal information (like payment, bank details, or social security numbers) at any point during the hiring process. If anyone contacts you claiming otherwise, please report it to us directly.Why it works:
It creates instant trust and sets you apart from shady job listings.✅ 2. Mention Paid Time Off or Flex Days (If Available)
Even in hospitality, a little breathing room goes a long way—and candidates notice.
Example:
🎉 Enjoy up to 24 paid flex hours per year—we all need time to recharge.Why it works:
Most food service jobs don’t talk about time off. If yours does, it becomes a selling point.✅ 3. Highlight Growth Opportunities & Internal Promotions
Especially in entry-level roles, applicants want to know if there’s a next step.
Example:
🚀 We promote from within—past food runners have gone on to become servers, hosts, and shift leads.Why it works:
It turns a short-term job into a long-term opportunity.✅ 4. Add a Real Video (Not Just a Placeholder)
Even a simple Loom from the hiring manager introducing themselves and the role can drastically improve engagement.
Pro Tip:
Mention the video early in the post (like we did in the templates) and make sure it’s hosted on a reliable platform like Loom, YouTube, or Vimeo.Why it works:
Candidates connect with people more than text. A short 60-second clip makes your company feel human and trustworthy.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. Set Clear Timelines for Applicants
Let people know what happens after they apply.
Example:
📅 We respond to all applications within 7 days.
🤝 Final candidates will be invited for a 10-minute video chat before scheduling a working interview.Why it works:
It sets expectations, shows respect for their time, and reduces the anxiety that usually comes with applying.✅ 6. Use Your Values as Filters
If your company values speed, attention to detail, or kindness—say it out loud. The best applicants will self-select based on your values.
Example:
🧠 We move fast, we don’t cut corners, and we treat guests (and each other) with respect. If that sounds like your style, we’d love to meet you.Why it works:
It adds clarity and screens for cultural fit without needing a long list of requirements.
Should You Use AI to Write Job Descriptions?
These days, it feels like everyone is using AI to write job descriptions. Some ATS platforms even offer one-click generators to help you “save time.”
But here’s the truth: AI can help you—but only if you use it the right way.
❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI
Just asking ChatGPT or any AI tool:
“Write me a food runner job description.”
…will usually give you:
- A generic, corporate-sounding job post
- Bullet-pointed tasks with no context
- A lifeless voice that feels disconnected from your team
- Something that looks like 90% of the job listings already online
This kind of post won’t help you stand out—and it definitely won’t attract the kind of thoughtful, service-oriented people you actually want to hire.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI
Think of AI like a great writing assistant. But like any assistant, it needs direction.
Here’s how to prompt it effectively:
🧠 Smart AI Prompt Template:
“Help me write a job post for our restaurant, The Harvest Table in Brooklyn. We’re hiring a food runner to help deliver dishes quickly and keep service flowing smoothly. We value teamwork, attention to detail, and a positive guest experience. The job pays $15–$17/hr + tips. We offer free shift meals, flex scheduling, and growth opportunities. Our ideal candidate is friendly, dependable, and ready to learn. We also use WorkScreen to evaluate candidates fairly. Please write this job post in a conversational, welcoming tone and reflect our values. Here are a few notes I’ve written to get you started: [paste your notes] ”
You can even paste in a few rough bullet points or your favorite job description from earlier in this article and say:
“Help me rewrite this in a human tone. Keep it friendly, clear, and candidate-first.”
🎯 The Bottom Line on AI Use
- Don’t outsource the thinking—AI can’t understand your company unless you feed it real context.
- Use it to shape, not replace—Let it help you organize, smooth out wording, and refine tone.
- Start human, finish polished—Give it raw inputs, and then iterate to make it stronger.
That’s how you get the best of both worlds: efficiency + authenticity.
- A generic, corporate-sounding job post
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Quick Copy-Paste Job Description Templates
Sometimes, you just need to post a job—fast.
Maybe you’ve read through this whole guide (👏), understand what makes a great job post, but you’re short on time. We’ve got you covered.
Below are two ready-to-go templates you can copy, paste, and tailor to your company in minutes.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Template (Entry-Level / Willing to Train)
📌 Job Title: Food Runner (We’ll Train You!) — Join Our Team in [City Name]
💼 Part-Time or Full-Time | $15–$17/hr + Tips | In-Person | [Company Name]
🎥 Meet the Team:
Here’s a short video from our team about what it’s like to work with us 👉 [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
Who We Are
At [Company Name], we’re all about great food and even better teamwork. We run a high-energy [type of restaurant, e.g., farm-to-table bistro] where service is fast, smiles are real, and guests always come first. We believe in training from within and giving people real opportunities to grow in hospitality—even if it’s their first job.
What You’ll Do
- Deliver food from the kitchen to guests quickly and accurately
- Communicate clearly with servers and kitchen staff
- Help reset and clean tables between guests
- Support the flow of service and jump in where needed
- Keep the pace while keeping it positive
What We’re Looking For
- A team player with a positive attitude
- Good communication and attention to detail
- Comfortable moving quickly and being on your feet
- No experience required—we’ll teach you
- Availability for [insert preferred shifts]
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Shared tips every shift
- Free shift meals
- Flexible scheduling
- Paid training and feedback check-ins
- Quarterly mental health flex day
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
This isn’t just a “runner” position—it’s a chance to join a team that values effort, attitude, and respect. You’ll get clear feedback, real support, and a shot to grow into roles like host or server. If you’re dependable and people-first, you’ll thrive here.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to make hiring fair and fast. Just follow the link below to complete a short evaluation—no résumé or cover letter needed.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
✅ Option 2: Structured Format Template (Experienced Food Runner)
📌 Job Title: Experienced Food Runner Needed — [Company Name], [City Name]
💼 Part-Time | $16–$18/hr + Tips | In-Person
🎥 Hear from the Manager:
Watch this quick video from our hiring manager explaining the role and what we’re looking for 👉 [Insert Loom/YouTube Link]
About Us
[Company Name] is a fast-paced, high-volume restaurant known for [insert cuisine or service style, e.g., craft cocktails and elevated pub fare]. We serve [mention lunch/dinner/brunch] with a focus on speed, accuracy, and warm hospitality. Our team moves with urgency, communicates clearly, and keeps service running smoothly no matter how packed we get.
Role Overview
We’re hiring an experienced food runner to join our front-of-house team. You’ll be the bridge between kitchen and guests—keeping plates moving, tickets accurate, and service seamless.
Responsibilities
- Run food from the kitchen to the right table, fast and accurately
- Confirm plate presentation and ticket match
- Communicate with servers and expo to stay in sync
- Help with table resets and bussing as needed
- Work fast under pressure without sacrificing quality
Requirements
- 6+ months of food running, bussing, or server assistant experience
- Able to lift up to 25 lbs and stay on your feet
- Strong multitasking and attention to detail
- Available for [insert shift details]
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Tip share every shift
- Free staff meals
- [Insert any discounts, training, or perks]
- Flexible scheduling or set shifts available
- Opportunities for advancement within the team
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen to evaluate applicants based on strengths—not just résumés. Follow the link below to complete a short, fair assessment and we’ll be in touch.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen Application Link]
Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Step of Hiring
Once you’ve written a clear, compelling job post and started attracting applicants, the next challenge is knowing who’s actually worth your time.
That’s where WorkScreen comes in.
✅ Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Phase of Hiring
WorkScreen helps you move beyond résumés and guesswork—so you can identify high-quality candidates faster, with less bias, and with more confidence.
Here’s how:
🎯 1. Spot Top Talent Instantly
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.
🧪 2. Assign 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.
🛡️ 3. Eliminate Low-Effort, AI-Generated 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.
💡 4. Give Candidates a Fairer, Smoother Experience
Top candidates don’t want to be ghosted. And they don’t want to feel like they’re applying into a black hole.
With WorkScreen:
- Every candidate is acknowledged
- Evaluations are fair and structured
- Strong applicants rise to the top, no matter their résumé
✅ Final Thought
Your job post is the first step—but how you evaluate matters just as much.
👉 Sign up at WorkScreen.io
Let WorkScreen handle the heavy lifting so you can spend more time interviewing the right people—and avoid costly hiring mistakes.
Create your first job post in minutes. Start evaluating applicants today.
Food Runner Job Description - FAQs
Great food runners are more than just fast on their feet. Here’s what really matters:
- Situational awareness – They need to stay alert and know what’s happening around the dining room and kitchen at all times.
- Communication – Clear, quick, and respectful exchanges with servers, kitchen staff, and managers keep the operation smooth.
- Time management – They must prioritize multiple tables and dishes without freezing up or losing focus.
- Attention to detail – A missed sauce, wrong table, or forgotten side dish can throw off the guest experience.
- Stamina & pace – The job can be physically demanding, especially during peak service.
- Calm under pressure – They need to stay focused and composed during busy shifts.
💡 Bonus soft skills: Humility, kindness, and a “team-first” mindset often matter more than technical skills.
The pay range depends on location, type of restaurant, and experience level. Here’s a general snapshot:
- Hourly base pay (U.S.):
$12–$17/hour for entry-level runners
$16–$20/hour+ in high-end or high-volume restaurants - Tips:
In tip-sharing establishments, food runners often receive pooled tips, adding an extra $2–$8/hour on average.
💡 Note: Be transparent about whether the role includes tips, and if so, how they’re calculated and distributed. This builds trust with candidates.
Not always. Many food runners are hired with little to no formal restaurant experience.
What matters more is:
- Their willingness to learn
- Physical stamina
- Customer-focused mindset
If you’re open to training, make that clear in your job post. It widens your talent pool and shows you value potential—not just pedigree.
These roles often overlap, but here’s a quick breakdown:
Role | Main Focus |
Food Runner | Delivers food from kitchen to table, verifies accuracy, supports servers |
Busser | Clears and resets tables, refills water, maintains cleanliness |
Server Assistant | Combo of both—may help run food and bus tables, depending on setup |
In smaller teams, one person may do all three. In larger teams, these roles are more distinct.
