Hire Food Runners
A typical day at a bustling restaurant requires a successful collaboration between the staff. A food runner is a junior role that is essential to the day-to-day operations. A food runner serves food with a smile and strives to make guests feel as comfortable as possible.
Finding a food runner who is enthusiastic and effective can help a restaurant in many ways. The hiring process begins with writing an accurate job description. Hiring managers should be clear, concise, and detailed. Carefully outline the responsibilities as well as requirements. Do not forget to include details about your restaurant to make it appealing! What is the culture of your restaurant like? Does it specialize in a particular cuisine? These details will help candidates picture themselves working in your restaurant.
Aside from general job boards, it is best for hiring managers to post job announcements on industry-specific job boards, online groups, and in community groups as well. Getting referrals from existing restaurant employees is a great way to source candidates. Your staff may already know qualified people, so let them know about the job vacancy!
Food Runner Responsibilities
A food runner is an entry-level employee of a restaurant whose primary responsibility is to support the wait staff by delivering food and drinks from the kitchen to customers. They listen carefully to instructions before serving food and accurately describe the food and drinks to customers.
To promote a positive dining experience, food runners assist in handling customer’s requests and inform servers about additional concerns. Restocking utensils, napkins, glasses, and other dining supplies are also part of the job. During busy times, food runners also clean tables, remove dishes, and carry them to the dishwashing area. Food runners maintain good personal hygiene, wash hands frequently, and follow safety precautions.
Food Runner Skills and Qualifications
To qualify as a food runner, candidates must have strong communication and organization skills. The restaurant environment is fast-paced that entails multi-tasking while remaining friendly and professional at all times.
Certifications in food safety training may be required of candidates. Prior experience as a server in a restaurant is an advantage but not usually required. Most restaurants are willing to train their staff for this role.
The candidate should be able to meet the physical demands of the job. Food runners must be able to stand for long periods of time and carry trays with food and beverages, up to 35 pounds. Lastly, candidates should be available to work in shifts, on weekends, and on holidays.
