What should I include in the introduction section of 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.

The introduction of a Waiter/Waitress job description should set the scene for potential candidates. It's important to describe your restaurant’s atmosphere, the pace of work, and the culture. This helps candidates understand what to expect and whether they'd be a good fit. Start by mentioning the type of dining venue, the style of service, and unique aspects of your workplace environment.

Common misunderstanding: The introduction is just a basic overview of the job.

More than just a basic overview, the introduction is your chance to attract the right candidates by clearly depicting the unique aspects of your restaurant. It should engage potential applicants by presenting an appealing picture of your dining environment and team culture.

Common misunderstanding: Detailed information about the role should be saved for later in the job description.

While detailed role responsibilities come later, the introduction should already hint at what the job entails through the description of the service style and dining atmosphere. This primes candidates about the pace and nature of their potential duties.

How can I describe the dining experience for candidates in a Waiter/Waitress job description?

Describing the dining experience in a job description involves detailing the service style, pace, and the typical customer interactions. Specify whether your restaurant offers fine dining, casual eats, or fast-paced service. Mention how the service unfolds, like whether it’s table service or counter service, and the typical duration of a dining experience. This helps candidates visualize their working day and understand the expectations.

Common misunderstanding: Any general description of the dining experience will suffice.

A generic description can attract unsuitable candidates. Tailor your description to reflect the specific dining experience of your restaurant, focusing on details like the pace of service and the level of interaction with customers.

Common misunderstanding: The dining experience is only relevant to the kitchen staff, not the waitstaff.

The dining experience directly impacts how waitstaff will interact with customers, manage their tasks, and even handle stress. It’s crucial for waitstaff to understand the dining environment as it significantly influences their day-to-day responsibilities and skills required.

Why is it important to convey the team culture in a Waiter/Waitress job description?

Conveying the team culture in a job description is vital as it helps attract candidates who will not only perform well but will also enjoy and thrive in your restaurant’s environment. Detailing aspects like team dynamics, values, and the general work atmosphere helps potential candidates assess if they will fit in with your existing team. This can lead to better job satisfaction and lower turnover.

Common misunderstanding: Team culture is too abstract to influence a candidate’s decision.

Team culture is a tangible aspect of the work environment that significantly affects employee satisfaction and retention. Candidates look for places where they feel they can belong and succeed, making the culture a crucial selling point.

Common misunderstanding: It’s enough to mention that you have a ‘friendly team’.

While stating you have a ‘friendly team’ is a start, be more specific about how the team works together, handles pressure, and supports one another. This provides a clearer picture of the actual working conditions and expectations.