Waiter / Steward

Job Description

A Steward's responsibilities in a restaurant or hotel setting involve maintaining cleanliness, assisting with table service, and supporting the overall dining experience. This role often overlaps with waiter duties, particularly in smaller establishments, but primarily focuses on the back-of-house aspects of dining. Key Responsibilities of a Steward: Table Setting and Maintenance: Setting tables, including placing tablecloths, decorations, and tableware, ensuring cleanliness and order. Assisting Wait Staff: Supporting the wait staff by stocking serving stations with essentials like napkins, utensils, and condiments. Table Clearing and Preparation: Clearing tables after guests have finished, ensuring they are ready for the next customers. Dishwashing and Cleaning: Scraping food from dishes, washing, and storing them appropriately, maintaining a clean and sanitary kitchen environment. General Cleanliness: Assisting with sweeping, mopping, and polishing the restaurant, bar, and kitchen areas. Stock Handling: Assisting with unloading and storing supplies, including food, beverages, and linen. Customer Service: Greeting guests, seating them, and offering assistance as needed. Communication: Communicating with kitchen staff and wait staff to ensure smooth service. Skills and Qualifications: Basic Math Skills: For order taking and managing supplies. Organizational Skills: For setting tables and managing inventory. Communication Skills: For interacting with guests and staff. Customer Service Skills: For assisting guests and resolving issues. Physical Stamina: For lifting, carrying, and standing for extended periods. Ability to Work in a Team: For coordinating with other staff members. Similarities to Waiter Roles: Customer Service: Both roles involve interacting with guests and ensuring a positive dining experience. Table Management: Both are responsible for setting and clearing tables. Differences from Waiter Roles: Order Taking and Delivery: Waiters primarily focus on taking and delivering orders, while stewards assist with the overall service process. Back-of-House Focus: Stewards often handle cleaning, dishwashing, and restocking, which are more back-of-house tasks.