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Key Responsibilities and Required Skills for Food and Beverage Assistant

💰 $25,000 - $45,000

HospitalityFood & Beverage ServiceCustomer ExperienceRestaurant Operations

🎯 Role Definition

As a Food and Beverage Assistant, you are a pivotal brand ambassador and the cornerstone of our dining experience. This role goes beyond simply taking orders and serving food; it's about creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere and orchestrating a seamless and memorable journey for every guest. You will be an expert on our culinary and beverage offerings, using your knowledge to guide guests through the menu and enhance their visit. Your attention to detail, proactive service, and ability to connect with people will directly contribute to guest satisfaction, loyalty, and the overall success and reputation of our establishment.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

  • Hospitality Intern or Trainee
  • Host / Hostess
  • Busser / Food Runner / Barback

Advancement To:

  • Food and Beverage Supervisor / Team Leader
  • Restaurant Captain / Head Waiter
  • Assistant Restaurant Manager / Sommelier

Lateral Moves:

  • Guest Services Agent / Guest Relations Officer
  • Events Coordinator / Banqueting Assistant
  • Concierge

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

  • Provide a warm, genuine, and professional welcome to all guests, managing reservations and seating arrangements to optimize dining room flow and guest satisfaction.
  • Present menus, provide detailed information on food and beverage items, including ingredients, preparation methods, and potential allergens, to assist guests in their selections.
  • Skillfully make recommendations and actively upsell menu items, daily specials, and promotional beverages to enhance the guest experience and drive revenue.
  • Accurately capture and process guest orders using the Point of Sale (POS) system, ensuring special requests and dietary restrictions are clearly communicated to the kitchen and bar teams.
  • Serve food and beverage orders promptly and efficiently, adhering to established service standards, including proper table-side etiquette and presentation.
  • Monitor guest satisfaction throughout their dining experience, anticipating needs and responding to any issues or complaints with professionalism and a solutions-oriented mindset.
  • Prepare and present accurate guest bills, process payments (cash, credit card, room charge) securely, and handle financial transactions with integrity.
  • Maintain a comprehensive knowledge of the full menu, including wine lists, cocktail offerings, and non-alcoholic beverages, to confidently answer guest inquiries.
  • Set up dining areas before service, including polishing silverware and glassware, arranging table settings, and ensuring all service stations are fully stocked and organized.
  • Clear tables efficiently and reset them for subsequent guests, maintaining a clean and inviting atmosphere in the dining room at all times.
  • Collaborate seamlessly with kitchen staff, bartenders, and other F&B team members to ensure smooth and coordinated service delivery.
  • Adhere strictly to all food safety, hygiene, and responsible alcohol service regulations (e.g., HACCP, TIPS/RAMP) to ensure a safe environment for guests and staff.
  • Assist in maintaining the cleanliness and organization of all F&B outlets, including the dining room, service stations, and back-of-house areas.
  • Handle guest inquiries and provide information about the hotel/restaurant facilities, services, and local attractions to act as an ambassador for the establishment.
  • Participate actively in pre-shift briefings and departmental meetings to stay informed about daily specials, VIP guests, and operational updates.
  • Manage side duties as assigned, such as restocking condiments, folding napkins, and maintaining inventory levels of service supplies.
  • Support banquet and event operations as needed, assisting with room setup, beverage service, and breakdown for private functions.
  • Proactively communicate any equipment malfunctions or supply shortages to the F&B Supervisor or Manager for prompt resolution.
  • Contribute to a positive and supportive team environment by assisting colleagues whenever possible and demonstrating a commitment to collective success.
  • Consistently embody the brand's service culture and standards, ensuring every guest interaction reflects the establishment's commitment to excellence.

Secondary Functions

  • Assist with monthly and weekly inventory counts of beverages, linen, and service equipment.
  • Support the implementation of new menus and promotional activities by learning new items and communicating them effectively to guests.
  • Participate in ongoing professional development and training sessions to enhance service skills and product knowledge.
  • Provide constructive feedback to management on guest preferences, operational challenges, and opportunities for service improvement.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

  • Proficiency in operating Point of Sale (POS) systems (e.g., Micros, Toast, Aloha).
  • Knowledge of food safety and hygiene standards (e.g., HACCP, ServSafe certification).
  • Competent and secure cash handling and credit card transaction processing.
  • Foundational knowledge of wine varietals, beer types, and classic cocktail recipes.
  • Experience with reservation management software (e.g., OpenTable, Resy).
  • Proper tray and plate carrying techniques to serve multiple items safely.
  • Understanding of different service styles (e.g., Silver Service, American Service).
  • Ability to operate standard bar and coffee equipment (espresso machine, blender).
  • Knowledge of allergen awareness and handling dietary restriction protocols.
  • Basic inventory management and stock-taking procedures.

Soft Skills

  • Exceptional customer service orientation with a genuine desire to create positive guest experiences.
  • Strong verbal communication and active listening skills.
  • Ability to work effectively and collaboratively within a fast-paced team environment.
  • High level of attention to detail and organizational skills.
  • Problem-solving ability and composure to handle guest complaints gracefully.
  • Adaptability and flexibility to manage changing priorities and unexpected situations.
  • Strong time management and multitasking capabilities.
  • A positive attitude, strong work ethic, and professional demeanor.
  • Upselling and sales-oriented mindset to enhance revenue.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

  • High School Diploma or GED equivalent.

Preferred Education:

  • Vocational training, Certificate, or Associate's degree in Hospitality Management or a related field.

Relevant Fields of Study:

  • Hospitality Management
  • Food and Beverage Service
  • Culinary Arts

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

  • 1-2 years of experience in a customer-facing role within a restaurant, hotel, or similar service environment.

Preferred:

  • Prior experience as a Server, Waiter/Waitress, or F&B Assistant in a high-volume restaurant, upscale dining establishment, or luxury hotel setting is highly advantageous.
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