Job Description

The Captain serves as a senior front-of-house service professional and primary point of contact for guests during service. This role is responsible for delivering a polished, elevated dining experience through exceptional hospitality, attention to detail, and strong floor presence. While the Captain may provide guidance and support to fellow servers during service, this position does not carry managerial authority or supervisory responsibilities. The Captain works closely with servers, hosts, kitchen, bar, and management teams to ensure smooth service execution aligned with the standards, culture, and hospitality values of the restaurant.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Collaborate with management and kitchen staff to ensure service operations meet established quality and hospitality standards
• Assist with opening and closing duties, including completing assigned checklists and preparing service stations
• Serve as a lead service presence on the floor, supporting smooth service flow and guest experience
• Greet guests warmly and engage professionally throughout the dining experience
• Present menus, answer questions, provide recommendations, and communicate options for guests with dietary restrictions
• Take accurate food and beverage orders and ensure prompt and correct delivery
• Provide attentive, personalized service throughout the meal to ensure guest satisfaction
• Process guest payments via cash and credit card, ensuring accuracy of checks
• Maintain a calm, organized demeanor during peak service periods
• Communicate clearly with floor staff regarding orders, special requests, pacing, and timing
• Assist with managing guest flow during busy periods, including providing accurate wait times and supporting table turn goals based on reservations
• Offer on-the-floor guidance and support to fellow servers as needed, without supervisory authority
• Address guest concerns professionally and escalate issues to management when necessary
• Maintain knowledge of company policies and procedures and ensure compliance during service
• Attend mandatory meetings and trainings as scheduled
• Adhere to posted schedules
• Complete additional duties as assigned by management
• Maintain thorough knowledge of the food menu, ingredients, and preparation methods
• Maintain working knowledge of the beverage menu, including wine selections and pairings
• Understand common food allergies and dietary restrictions and communicate concerns to kitchen and management teams
• Comply with all state and local health and sanitation regulations
• Follow Department of Health and Safety standards related to food handling, hygiene, and alcohol service
• Verify guest identification to ensure legal compliance with alcohol service laws
• Use all equipment and tools safely and as intended
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of workstations
• Inspect tools, equipment, and supplies to ensure compliance with standards
• Report any health, safety, or workplace violations to management immediately
• Follow proper food storage and handling procedures

Qualifications

• Minimum of two (2) years of restaurant experience in a similar caliber establishment
• Prior experience as a senior server, lead server, or captain preferred
• Fluency in spoken and written English
• High school diploma or GED
• TIPS certification required within 60 days of hire
• Familiarity with restaurant POS systems
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Strong interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Excellent time management, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to remain composed and service-focused in a fast-paced environment
• Polished personal appearance that meets company standards
• Strong attention to detail and passion for hospitality, food, and beverage service

Essential Functions and Physical Demands

• This position requires the ability to perform essential job functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Maintain well-paced mobility for up to 12 hours per shift
• Lift and carry up to 25 pounds
• Stand, walk, reach, bend, stoop, push, pull, and kneel frequently
• Use stairs frequently, including while carrying items
• Occasionally crouch and climb
• Work around hazards such as hot surfaces, sharp objects, and wet floors
• Tolerate temperature fluctuations from high heat to cold environments
• Be exposed to common food allergens and specialty ingredients

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

The Company is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. Employment decisions are based on business needs, qualifications, and merit, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under Federal, State and Local laws.

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