What level of experience should be required in a Waiter/Waitress job description?

Date modified: 22nd September 2025 | This FAQ page has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email. Or book a demo to see how hospitality businesses use Pilla to create and record job descriptions.

Waiter Job Description Template

This job description template provides a full working exmaple using our six step approach. Open the template in the Pilla app and customise each section to make it specific to your role and business.

We operate a contemporary casual dining restaurant serving 140 covers daily with emphasis on fresh, seasonal cuisine and exceptional guest experiences. Our waiters are the heart of our service delivery, creating memorable dining moments through professional hospitality, detailed menu knowledge, and seamless coordination with our kitchen brigade. The atmosphere balances relaxed comfort with attentive service, welcoming diverse guests from intimate date nights to family celebrations and business meetings. Our service philosophy centers on genuine warmth, efficiency, and anticipating guest needs while maintaining the energy and precision required during busy service periods.
• Welcome guests warmly and guide them to tables, ensuring comfortable seating and immediate attention to their needs • Take comprehensive food and beverage orders with attention to dietary requirements, allergies, and special requests • Provide expert menu recommendations based on guest preferences, including wine pairings and chef specialties • Deliver food and beverages promptly while verifying order accuracy and presentation standards • Maintain ongoing guest satisfaction through table visits, refills, and proactive service throughout the meal • Process payments efficiently using our POS system, handling cash, cards, and split bills with accuracy • Coordinate with kitchen and bar teams on timing, special preparations, and service flow optimization • Maintain immaculate table setup, cleanliness, and proper mise en place between services • Handle guest feedback professionally, resolving concerns and escalating complex issues to management • Support team efficiency during peak periods through section coordination and mutual assistance • Complete opening duties including dining room setup, equipment checks, and service preparation • Execute closing responsibilities including cleaning, cash reconciliation, and preparation for following service
Essential Skills: Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities with natural hospitality instincts; exceptional multitasking capability in fast-paced service environments; strong attention to detail for order accuracy and guest preferences; professional presentation and grooming standards; physical stamina for extended periods of standing, walking, and carrying service items; basic mathematics skills for payment processing and bill calculations; team collaboration skills for coordinating with kitchen, bar, and management. Preferred Qualifications: Previous restaurant or hospitality service experience demonstrating guest relations expertise; familiarity with POS systems and payment processing technology; wine and beverage knowledge including basic pairing principles; food safety and hygiene certification; additional language skills for diverse guest demographics; experience with dietary restrictions and allergen protocols; knowledge of fine dining service techniques and etiquette.
We're looking for both experienced hospitality professionals and enthusiastic newcomers who are excited to build their service careers. While previous restaurant experience is great to have, we care more about your attitude, work ethic, and genuine passion for hospitality than years on your CV. We'll provide comprehensive training covering our service standards, menu knowledge, wine program, POS systems, and how to create amazing guest experiences. New team members will work alongside experienced waiters during their first week, gradually taking on full responsibilities with plenty of support. We believe in helping people grow and offer real opportunities for career progression within our restaurant group.
We're looking for someone who genuinely loves creating great experiences for guests and enjoys working as part of a close-knit team. You should be naturally warm and authentic, able to stay calm and positive even when things get busy or challenging. We value people who take pride in what they do, are reliable and punctual, and want to contribute to our supportive workplace culture. The right person will be flexible and adaptable, pay attention to the little details that matter to guests, and be keen to keep learning and improving. Being able to think on your feet and handle pressure with a smile is really important in our fast-paced restaurant environment.
Competitive hourly rate of £11.00-£13.50 based on experience, plus share of service charges and gratuities (typically £40-70 per shift depending on service period). Comprehensive benefits package includes: nutritious staff meals during all shifts; 25 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays; flexible scheduling accommodating work-life balance where operationally feasible. Ongoing professional development including wine education and service technique training; clear progression pathways to senior waiter, section leader, and supervisory roles; supportive team environment with regular social events and recognition programs. Health and wellness initiatives including employee assistance programs; staff discounts at our restaurant group properties.

When writing a job description for a waiter or waitress, it's important to clearly define the level of experience needed. This helps to attract the right candidates and ensures they are capable of meeting the demands of the role. Consider whether the role is entry-level, mid-level, or senior, and specify the type of dining environment they should be familiar with.

Common misunderstanding: More experience always means better performance.

While experience is valuable, it's not the only factor. The type of experience can be more important than the length. For example, someone with six months in a high-end restaurant might be more suitable than someone with two years in a fast-food setting, depending on your needs.

Common misunderstanding: Specifying experience will limit the number of applicants.

Being clear about experience requirements actually helps in attracting more qualified candidates. It prevents time wasted on interviewing unsuitable applicants and sets clear expectations for the role.

How do I decide on entry-level versus experienced roles in a Waiter/Waitress job description?

Deciding between entry-level and experienced roles depends on your restaurant's needs and the complexity of the service you provide. Entry-level roles are suitable for environments willing to train new staff, while experienced roles are better for restaurants requiring immediate proficiency with minimal training.

Common misunderstanding: Entry-level candidates can't handle busy environments.

Entry-level candidates can be very successful in busy environments if they are given the right training and support. Their enthusiasm and willingness to learn can sometimes outweigh the lack of experience.

Common misunderstanding: Experienced roles don't require any training.

Even experienced hires may need training, especially to familiarize them with specific practices unique to your restaurant. Always include a training period to align their skills with your operational standards.

Should I mention training opportunities in my Waiter/Waitress job description?

Yes, mentioning training opportunities in your job description is very beneficial. It attracts candidates who are eager to learn and grow, and it communicates that your establishment invests in its staff. This can increase the appeal of the job and help retain staff longer.

Common misunderstanding: Training is only for new or inexperienced staff.

Training is essential for all levels of staff to ensure consistent service quality and to update them on new menu items or service techniques. It's a continuous part of professional development in the hospitality industry.

Common misunderstanding: Mentioning training makes a job seem less desirable.

On the contrary, highlighting training opportunities often makes a position more attractive, as it shows the employer's commitment to staff development and career growth.