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If you’ve Googled “restaurant server job description,” chances are you’ve seen the same thing over and over again:
Bullet points. Buzzwords. No personality.
“Responsibilities: Take orders. Serve food. Clean tables.”
End of post.
But here’s the truth—that kind of job description won’t attract the kind of server you actually want on your team.
The kind who’s reliable, friendly, calm under pressure, and can read a customer’s mood like a pro.
A great server isn’t just someone who delivers plates.
They’re your brand on the floor.
They shape the guest experience.
And they’re one of the main reasons customers come back (or don’t).
So if your job post reads like a checklist, you’re not just boring candidates—you’re pushing away the ones who actually care.
In this guide, we’re going to help you do it better.
We’ll show you how to write a restaurant server job description that’s not only clear and compliant—but also human, compelling, and designed to attract great people.
👉 If you haven’t already, we also recommend checking 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/., where we break down why most generic job descriptions fail—and how to fix them.
Ready to write a job post that actually works? Let’s get into it.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
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What Does a Restaurant Server Actually Do?
A restaurant server isn’t just someone who takes orders and delivers food. They’re the face of your restaurant—the person customers interact with the most.
They greet guests, explain the menu, handle dietary questions, take orders accurately, and keep the dining experience running smoothly. But the best servers do more than that.
They read the room.
They stay calm when it’s busy.
They keep guests smiling, even when the kitchen’s behind.
In short: A great server balances efficiency with emotional intelligence.
They know how to hustle, but they also know how to make people feel seen, heard, and taken care of.
So when you’re hiring a server, you’re not just hiring for hospitality—you’re hiring for judgment, multitasking, timing, and grace under pressure.
This is what you want to convey in your job post—because that’s what separates an average hire from someone who elevates the guest experience.
Two Great Restaurant Server 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: For Experienced Restaurant Servers
🍽️ Job Title: Experienced Restaurant Server at The Golden Spoon (Evenings & Weekends)
Location: Austin, TX
Job Type: Part-Time (Evenings + Weekends)
Pay: $18–$25/hour (including tips)
Schedule: Thurs–Sun, 4PM–11PM
🎥 Meet the Team
Before you apply, check out this quick video from our floor manager, Sarah. She’ll walk you through what a typical shift looks like, what makes our team special, and how we support each other during service.
[Insert Loom or YouTube link]
👋 Who We Are
At The Golden Spoon, we’re not just serving food—we’re creating memorable experiences.
We’re a locally owned farm-to-table bistro that’s been serving up seasonal dishes and warm hospitality in Austin since 2011. Our guests come for the food, but they return for the people. That’s where you come in.
🌟 What You’ll Be Doing
- Greet guests and manage table sections with warmth and professionalism
- Present menu specials and confidently answer questions (including dietary/allergy info)
- Take and deliver orders with accuracy and speed
- Handle multiple tables without losing the personal touch
- Maintain clean, organized stations and assist in closing duties
- Work closely with kitchen and bar staff to keep service flowing smoothly
👤 What We’re Looking For
- 1+ year experience in a full-service restaurant
- Comfortable balancing 4–6 tables during peak hours
- Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
- A calm, kind presence—even when it’s slammed
- TABC and Food Handler certified (or willing to get certified before starting)
💬 Why You’ll Love Working Here
- Team that treats each other like family
- Shift meals and discounts
- Flexible scheduling with consistent hours
- Growth opportunities for people who want to learn and lead
- Weekly tip-outs + supportive, respectful management
📥 How to Apply
We value people who care about doing good work and treating guests (and teammates) well.
To apply, send us your resume and a short note about why you’d be a great fit.
We use WorkScreen.io to help us evaluate candidates fairly and quickly—so expect a short skills-based evaluation as part of your application. Apply here [insert application link]
✅ Option 2: For Entry-Level / Willing-To-Train Candidates
🍕 Job Title: Friendly & Trainable Restaurant Server at Bella’s Pizza Kitchen (No Experience Needed)
Location: Denver, CO
Job Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
Pay: $16–$20/hour (including tips)
Schedule: Flexible (we’ll work with your availability)
🎥 Meet Your Future Team
We recorded a quick video with our general manager, Marcos, who shares what it’s like to work at Bella’s, how we support new hires, and what makes our team so close-knit.
[Insert Loom or YouTube link]
🍕 About Us
Bella’s is a neighborhood pizza joint with a big heart. We serve handcrafted pies, fresh salads, and good vibes every day. We believe anyone can be trained to serve—what matters most is your attitude, reliability, and how you treat people.
If you’re friendly, coachable, and ready to work—we’ve got a spot for you.
🎯 What You’ll Be Doing
- Welcome guests with a big smile
- Take orders (we’ll train you how)
- Deliver food and drinks quickly and politely
- Help clear tables and restock stations
- Communicate with the kitchen so everyone stays in sync
- Make guests feel like part of the family
🌱 What We’re Looking For
- No experience needed—we’ll train you
- You show up on time, ready to learn
- You enjoy working with people and keeping things organized
- Comfortable being on your feet for long shifts
- Team player with a positive attitude (even on busy nights)
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- On-the-job training and mentorship
- Free shift meals and staff discounts
- Supportive managers who’ve worked your role before
- Opportunities to grow into shift lead or front-of-house trainer
📥 How to Apply
We take every application seriously—whether you’ve worked in a restaurant or not.
To apply, follow the WorkScreen.io link below and complete a quick skills evaluation. We’re excited to meet you and help you grow. Apply here [insert application link]
Smart Hiring Starts Here
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
🔍 Why These Restaurant Server Job Posts Actually Work
Let’s break down what makes each of these examples effective—and how they’re different from the dry, generic job descriptions you see everywhere else.
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear, Specific, and Human
Instead of just saying “Server Needed”, these job posts give context:
- “Experienced Restaurant Server at The Golden Spoon (Evenings & Weekends)” tells the applicant what level you’re hiring for, where they’ll work, and when.
- “Friendly & Trainable Restaurant Server at Bella’s Pizza Kitchen (No Experience Needed)” immediately makes the role feel approachable and welcoming—even for first-timers.
These titles filter the right candidates in and show you’ve thought about the person you want—not just the position.
✅ 2. They Include a Personal Video From the Team
This is a game-changer. A quick Loom or YouTube video from the floor manager or GM:
- Builds trust before the first interview
- Shows your team’s personality
- Makes your company feel real—not just another listing on a job board
Candidates want to know who they’re applying to. A short video says, “We care enough to show up on camera”—and that’s rare.
✅ 3. The Introductions Create Emotional Connection
Instead of jumping straight into duties, each post starts with a warm, inviting intro that:
- Explains what the business stands for
- Highlights the guest experience and team culture
- Helps candidates picture themselves making an impact
This is especially powerful for entry-level roles, where candidates may be nervous or unsure if they’re qualified.
✅ 4. The Responsibilities Are Framed Around Impact
The posts don’t just say “take orders” or “serve food.”
They say things like:
- “Keep our office and projects running smoothly”
- “Make guests feel like part of the family”
This language shows why the role matters, not just what it includes. That’s what attracts people who care about doing meaningful work—even in fast-paced environments.
✅ 5. Compensation, Perks, and Schedules Are Clear
Both posts include:
- Pay range (including tips)
- Work hours and flexibility
- Benefits like free meals, team discounts, or internal promotion paths
This level of transparency builds instant trust with candidates and helps filter out people who aren’t a fit—saving you time.
✅ 6. The Hiring Process Is Respectful and Modern
Rather than saying “only shortlisted candidates will be contacted,” these posts:
- Reassure candidates that their applications will be reviewed
- Explain the next steps clearly (including the use of WorkScreen)
- Show that you respect people’s time and effort
That small shift goes a long way toward attracting thoughtful, responsible applicants.
✅ 7. The Tone Is Conversational, Not Robotic
Every section—from the intro to the CTA—feels like a real person wrote it.
There’s warmth, clarity, and professionalism without sounding stiff or corporate.
This helps your job post stand out in a sea of “blah” listings—and makes good people more likely to hit apply.
A Bad Restaurant Server Job Description (And Why It Doesn’t Work)
Let’s look at the kind of job post that’s still way too common online—and why it fails to attract great candidates.
❌ Bad Job Post Example
Job Title: Waiter/Waitress
Company: Hilltop Restaurant Group
Location: Chicago, IL
Job Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Not disclosed
Job Summary
We are seeking an experienced waiter/waitress to join our team. The ideal candidate will be responsible for greeting customers, taking food and beverage orders, delivering meals, and ensuring guest satisfaction.
Responsibilities
- Greet guests in a friendly manner
- Take food and beverage orders
- Serve food and drinks accurately
- Clear tables and reset for new guests
- Follow health and safety guidelines
Requirements
- 1–2 years of experience preferred
- Ability to multitask and work in a fast-paced environment
- Excellent communication skills
How to Apply
Send your resume to hr@hilltoprestaurant.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🛑 Why This Job Post Falls Flat
Here’s a breakdown of everything this post misses—and how it could be hurting your ability to attract strong candidates:
1. The Job Title Is Too Generic
“Waiter/Waitress” doesn’t tell candidates where they’ll work, who they’ll serve, or what kind of restaurant it is.
It could be a diner or a high-end steakhouse—there’s no clarity, which means serious applicants will scroll right past it.
2. The Introduction Feels Cold and Mechanical
There’s no mission, no culture, and no personality.
It jumps straight into duties without giving any reason why someone should want this job. That’s a missed opportunity to connect.
3. No Salary or Perks Mentioned
Today’s candidates expect transparency. Leaving out pay details is a red flag and instantly makes your post feel outdated or dismissive.
4. Culture and Team Dynamics Are Completely Missing
There’s no sense of what kind of team they’ll be joining, what the vibe is like, or what the company cares about. That’s a huge deal-breaker for people looking for purpose or belonging.
5. The Responsibilities Are Bland and Vague
“Serve food and drinks” is technically correct—but it doesn’t paint a picture.
Great job posts help candidates visualize what a shift looks like and how they’ll contribute.
6. The Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
“Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” is one of the fastest ways to make applicants feel like their time doesn’t matter.
7. The Call to Action Is Cold and Outdated
No enthusiasm. No encouragement. No explanation of what happens after they apply. Just “send your resume”—which sounds more like a formality than an opportunity.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Restaurant Server Job Post Stand Out
Writing a great job post isn’t just about listing duties—it’s about building trust, creating connection, and giving great candidates a reason to choose you over the 20 other listings they just scrolled past.
Here are some extra touches that go a long way:
🔒 1. Add a Security & Privacy Notice for Applicants
Job scams are real, and candidates are cautious.
Adding a short line like this builds instant trust:
Important: We take the security and privacy of all job applicants seriously. We will never ask for payment, bank details, or personal financial information at any point during the hiring process.
It’s a small gesture that makes your post feel professional and safe.
🏖 2. Mention Time Off or Schedule Flexibility
Servers work hard. So if you offer anything like flex days, guaranteed weekends off, or paid leave—even if it’s limited—say it.
Example: “Enjoy up to 24 flex days off per year so you can recharge and come back stronger.”
Even informal perks like “we’re flexible with school schedules” can make your post more attractive.
📈 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Even in frontline roles, candidates want to know there’s room to grow.
If you promote from within or offer training, shout it out:
“We invest in our team. You’ll receive on-the-job training, mentorship, and opportunities to move into shift lead or management roles.”
This is especially powerful in entry-level posts where you want to attract motivated, long-term hires.
🎥 4. Add a Video from the Hiring Manager or Team
You already included this in your templates (great move!)—but if you’re not doing this yet, it’s one of the easiest ways to stand out.
Even a 30-second Loom video saying, “Here’s who we are, and here’s why we love working here,” helps humanize your company and builds early trust.
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
These small touches don’t take much time—but they separate you from the pack and signal to applicants that this isn’t just a job. It’s a team, a culture, and a place where their work will be valued.
Should You Use AI to Write Your Restaurant Server Job Post?
Lately, it feels like every hiring platform is pushing one-click AI job descriptions—Workable, Manatal, even ChatGPT prompts. And sure, it’s fast. But if you rely on AI to do all the work?
You’ll end up with a generic, lifeless job post that attracts the wrong people—and reflects poorly on your brand.
Here’s why:
❌ The Wrong Way to Use AI
Prompt: “Write a job description for a restaurant server.”
What you’ll get:
- A vague title like “We are looking for a qualified Waiter/Waitress”
- Responsibilities like “Greet guests and take orders”
- A cold, robotic tone with zero culture or personality
It might look clean—but it’s not you.
And it definitely won’t inspire someone great to apply.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI (With Strategy)
If you want AI to help you—not hurt your hiring—feed it the right inputs first.
Before prompting, make sure you’ve already defined:
- What your restaurant stands for (mission, vibe, guest experience)
- What this specific server will actually do day-to-day
- What kind of personality and values you’re looking for
- Perks, training, or scheduling flexibility you offer
- What makes your team different from every other restaurant hiring
Then give AI something like this:
“Help me write a restaurant server job post for my business, Bella’s Pizza Kitchen. We’re a fast-paced but friendly pizza joint in Denver that’s hiring a front-of-house team member. We care about attitude, coachability, and great guest experiences. We offer training, flexible schedules, and shift meals. Here are my notes and responsibilities to get started [paste notes]…”
This way, AI becomes your editor and writing assistant—not your ghostwriter.
It can help you:
- Improve tone
- Structure your writing
- Catch grammar issues
- Save time formatting
But the insight, personality, and values need to come from you.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you find the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Restaurant Server Job Description?
We get it—sometimes you don’t have time to build a job post from scratch.
Maybe you’ve already read through this guide and understand what a strong job post looks like. But now you just need a solid starting point you can copy, paste, and tweak for your restaurant.
That’s what this section is for.
✏️ 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 Job Description Template (Culture-First Style)
🍽️ Job Title: Restaurant Server at [Insert Restaurant Name] – Friendly, Fast, and Team-Focused
Location: [Insert City, State]
Job Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
Pay: [Insert Pay Range + Tips if applicable]
Schedule: [Include Shift Times or “Flexible”]
🎥 [Optional: Add a quick video from your hiring manager or team to build trust]
👋 About Us
At [Your Restaurant Name], we’re not just serving food—we’re building experiences that keep guests coming back. Whether it’s a Friday night rush or a quiet weekday lunch, we believe great service is what makes the difference.
We’re looking for a restaurant server who’s fast on their feet, great with people, and takes pride in creating a smooth, enjoyable experience for every guest.
🌟 What You’ll Do
- Greet and seat customers with warmth
- Present specials and answer menu questions confidently
- Take and deliver orders accurately and efficiently
- Handle guest requests with professionalism and care
- Coordinate with the kitchen and bar to keep things flowing
- Keep your station clean and organized
👤 Who You Are
- Friendly, reliable, and great under pressure
- Able to multitask and manage several tables at once
- Excellent communicator with a positive attitude
- Previous experience is a plus, but not required if you’re eager to learn
- [Optional: Food Handler/TABC Certification required or willing to get it]
🎁 Perks and Benefits
- Free shift meals and staff discounts
- Flexible scheduling
- Training and growth opportunities
- Supportive team and inclusive environment
- [Insert any other perks unique to your restaurant]
📥 How to Apply
We value people who show up ready to work hard, treat others well, and grow with the team.
Click the link below to apply via WorkScreen.io. You’ll complete a short evaluation that helps us understand your strengths—no long forms, no guesswork.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link here]
✅ Option 2: Structured “Job Brief + Responsibilities + Requirements” Format
📌 Job Title: Restaurant Server
Location: [City, State]
Job Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]
Compensation: [Base Pay + Tips]
Start Date: [Optional]
Job Brief
We are looking for a competent Restaurant Server to take orders and deliver food and beverages to our customers. You’ll be the face of our restaurant and responsible for creating a great dining experience.
Responsibilities
- Greet and seat guests
- Take accurate food and drink orders
- Deliver items promptly and check in with guests regularly
- Clear tables and reset for new guests
- Coordinate with kitchen and bar for smooth service
- Handle payments and resolve basic customer issues
Requirements
- Proven restaurant serving or waitstaff experience preferred
- Strong multitasking and communication skills
- Positive attitude and team-first mindset
- Flexibility to work in shifts, including weekends and holidays
- Food Handler/TABC certification (or willing to obtain)
Benefits
- Hourly wage + tips
- Staff meals
- Flexible shifts
- Opportunities for advancement
How to Apply
To apply, please use the link below to complete a short application through WorkScreen.io. We look forward to learning more about you!
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link here]
Done Writing the Job Post? Let WorkScreen Handle the Rest.
Writing a great job post is step one. But attracting serious candidates and filtering out the noise? That’s where WorkScreen comes in.
Once your job post is live, here’s how WorkScreen helps you hire faster, smarter, and with confidence:
🔍 Spot Top Talent Instantly
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—so you immediately know who your best candidates are without endless resume reading.
🧠 Assess Skills, Not Just Credentials
Use one-click skill tests to evaluate candidates based on real-world traits like time management, communication, accuracy, and adaptability. No more guessing based on past experience alone.
🚫 Eliminate Low-Effort and AI-Generated Applications
WorkScreen filters out applicants who copy-paste answers or use AI tools to cheat their way through. You focus only on real, committed, high-quality people who want the job.
⏱ Save Hours on Every Hire
Everything’s automated, easy to use, and requires no training. You get clarity without complexity—and make better hires, faster.
If you’ve been burned by bad hires—or just overwhelmed with unqualified applications—it’s time to stop guessing and start screening smarter.
👉 Create your job post with WorkScreen today
and let the platform do the heavy lifting:
[Insert CTA Button or Link to WorkScreen.io]
Restaurant Servers Job Description - Frequently Asked Questions
In modern hospitality, there’s no real functional difference between a waitress and a server—both refer to the person who takes orders and serves food and drinks to guests.
The main distinction is language and inclusivity:
- Waitress and waiter are gendered terms.
- Server is a more inclusive, professional, and widely accepted title in today’s workplace.
If you want to attract a broader, more diverse pool of candidates, it’s best to stick with “server” in your job post.
Beyond basic service duties, the best restaurant servers have a blend of hard and soft skills:
Must-Have Skills:
- Strong communication: Clear, friendly, and calm—even under pressure
- Multitasking ability: Can juggle multiple tables, requests, and pace changes
- Attention to detail: Accuracy in taking orders and remembering preferences
- Emotional intelligence: Can read a guest’s mood and adjust accordingly
- Team coordination: Works well with kitchen, hosts, and fellow servers
Bonus Traits:
- Resilience during high-volume shifts
- Positivity when handling complaints or long wait times
- Good memory and product knowledge (menus, allergens, specials)
These skills are often more important than prior experience—especially in customer-facing roles.
This varies by region, but in many U.S. states and countries:
- A Food Handler’s Certificate is required
- A TABC (or equivalent alcohol serving license) is needed if serving alcohol
If your restaurant serves alcohol, it’s a good idea to list these as “required or willing to obtain” in your job post.
Typical shifts include:
- Lunch service: ~10:30 AM to 3:00 PM
- Dinner service: ~4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
- Weekend/holiday shifts are often required
Flexible scheduling is a top priority for many candidates, especially students or part-time job seekers—so highlight any flexibility you offer.
Both can work—what matters is the type of environment you’re hiring into.
- If you run a fast-paced, fine-dining restaurant: Experience helps avoid costly mistakes
- If you’re a community-driven or casual eatery: Hire for attitude and train on the rest
The key is to be clear in your post—if you’re open to training, say so. It opens up your candidate pool to reliable people who just need a chance.
