Part-Time
Server
Dave & Busters
10,001+ employees
Arcade gaming and dining entertainment chain
Compensation Overview
$16.90/hr
Fairfield, CA, USA
In Person
 Retail (1) |
|---|
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- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Must be able to read and write in English.
- Must be able to effectively communicate with Guests and generate enthusiasm about the Dave & Buster's experience.
- Must be able to operate Micros, make changes, accurately conduct credit card transactions, and account for all monies at the end of each shift.
- Must be able to maintain personal bank and ensure all financial transactions are accurate by operating credit card machines correctly, calculating and returning appropriate change, and maintaining adequate cash and coin for making change.
- Must be able to read and understand all menu items and answer questions regarding food and drink items and their preparation.
- Must be able to work in a noisy, fast-paced environment and work days, nights and weekends as required.
- Must be able to stand for long periods and lift up to 30 pounds; reach, bend and stoop frequently.
- Must be dressed in proper dress code requirements, looking neat, clean and professional at all times.
- Deliver an unparalleled Guest experience through the best combination of food, drinks and games in an ideal environment for celebrating all out fun.
- Keeps immediate supervisor promptly and fully informed of all problems or unusual matters of significance; takes prompt corrective action where necessary or suggests alternative courses of action.
- Creates a warm, fun atmosphere for Guests and Team Members.
- Adheres to company’s sanitation procedures.
- Maintains responsibility for personal bank and ensures all financial transactions are accurate by operating credit card machines correctly, calculating and returning appropriate change and maintaining adequate cash and coin for making change.
- Follows alcohol awareness procedures for preventing intoxication and dealing with intoxicated Guests.
- Assesses Guest demeanor and identifies when behavior should be called to the attention of a Manager.
- Greets newly seated Guests in a friendly and timely manner.
- Accurately takes Guests’ food and drink orders.
- Maintains a thorough understanding of all menu items and is able to answer questions regarding food and drink items and their preparation.
- Enters orders into Micros quickly and in proper sequence, using appropriate modifications and charges.
- Ensures food is properly garnished and delivers trays to designated table server’s own section, as well as other sections in the restaurant, as needed.
- Works quickly and efficiently adhering to “Full hands in, Full hands out” philosophy.
- Assists in party set up and breakdown. Busses and resets tables as needed.
- Assists other Team Members as needed or as business dictates.
- Responsible for all sales on personal Micros keys and completing station side work at the beginning and end of their shift.
- Participates in all incentives and contests, driving sales and promoting the brand.
- Follows portion guidelines to ensure cost control, while maximizing the Guest experience.
- Ensures ongoing Guest satisfaction by checking back after delivery of food, maintaining drink levels, removing clutter, pre-bussing as necessary, and responding to Guest needs in a timely manner.
- Keeps station clean, sets up and takes down station tables appropriately.
- Maintains a favorable working relationship with all other company Team Members to foster and promote a cooperative and harmonious working climate and help keep high morale, productivity and efficiency/effectiveness.
- Must be skilled in effectively communicating with Guests in order to generate enthusiasm about the D&B experience.
- Must demonstrate ability to operate Micros, make changes, accurately conduct credit card transactions, and account of all monies at the end of each shift.
- Must be able to read and communicate in English.
- Listen to hear Guests’ orders and needs, and then communicate with Guests verbally and with other Team Members verbally via Micros system.
- Dressed in proper dress code requirements, looking neat, clean and professional at all times.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
Dave & Buster's operates a chain of entertainment venues that blend arcade games, sports viewing, and full-service dining. Guests can pay to play a wide range of arcade games, order meals and drinks from a bar and restaurant, and watch live or televised sports in a large, social setting. The venues also host events such as corporate parties and social gatherings, offering packages that combine games, food, and drinks. The product experience centers on visiting a single location for both entertainment and dining, rather than solely playing games or eating separately. In comparison to competitors, Dave & Buster's differentiates itself by providing a large, integrated entertainment and hospitality venue that targets families, young adults, and corporate groups, rather than a narrow focus on games or dining alone. Its goal is to attract guests to a venue that offers a comprehensive, social entertainment experience in one place, encouraging repeat visits and planning for events and groups.
Company Size
10,001+
Company Stage
IPO
Headquarters
Dallas, Texas
Founded
1982
Get referred to Dave & Busters
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- June 15, 2026 revenue reached $559.2 million; liquidity totaled $499.1 million.
- July 2026 McKinney and Columbus openings add fresh units and local buzz.
- Amanda Busby and Derek Sample joined in August 2026, strengthening operations and controls.
What critics are saying
- June 15, 2026 comps fell 5.4%, signaling weakening traffic and spending.
- Tarun Lal exited August 3, 2026; another leadership reset risks strategic drift.
- Nightlife experiments and family branding collide, risking confusing guests and eroding the core concept.
What makes Dave & Busters unique
- Dave & Buster's combines arcade, sports viewing, dining, and events in one venue.
- Back-to-Basics under Darin Harper standardizes execution across 187 locations, announced August 4, 2026.
- Brownies & Lemonade's July 15, 2026 Rave & Buster's tour expands nightlife reach.
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Benefits
Health Insurance
401(k) Retirement Plan
401(k) Company Match
Paid Vacation
Flexible Work Hours
Growth & Insights and Company News
6 month growth
↑ 24%1 year growth
↑ 24%2 year growth
↑ 25%Dave & Buster's has appointed Amanda Busby as chief operating officer, succeeding Tony Wehner, who moved to president of sibling brand Main Event. This marks the company's second executive announcement this month, following Darin Harper's promotion from CFO to CEO, replacing Tarun Lal. Busby previously served as COO and president of SSP America, a major US airport concessioner. She also held various leadership positions at Red Robin over nearly two decades. As COO, Busby will focus on driving Dave & Buster's next growth phase. The company highlighted her people-first approach and track record of driving revenue growth and enhancing operational performance.
Dave & Buster's appoints former Six Flags chief as new CAO. August 19, 2026 Dave & Buster's Dave & Buster's has found its new chief accounting officer, appointing the experienced Derek Sample. Sample brings nearly 20 years of finance and accounting leadership to the arcade company, having held leadership roles across a range of industries. He most recently served as chief accounting officer at Six Flags Entertainment (pre-merger). He led the business transformation team established following the Six Flags and Cedar Fair merger, overseeing post-merger integration and enterprise-wide system modernisation initiatives. 'A reputation for leveraging people' Dave & Buster's said: "Throughout his career, Derek has built a reputation for leveraging people, processes and technology to drive operational excellence and financial performance. "He is recognised for developing high-performing teams, advancing technology adoption and implementing scalable solutions that support growth in complex, multi-unit organisations. "Derek's experience leading organisations through transformation, coupled with his technology-forward and results-driven approach, will be instrumental as we continue to strengthen our foundation for long-term growth and innovation."
Dave & Buster's (NASDAQ: PLAY) appoints Darin Harper CEO, following Tarun Lal's exit. 05 August 2026 02:08 PM PDT Summarize with AI You are reading a free article with opinions that may differ from the recommendation given by Kalkine in its paid research reports. Become a Kalkine member today to get access to its research reports, in-depth technical and fundamental research. Learn more Tarun Lal has retired as CEO of Dave & Buster's, effective August 3, 2026, as Darin Harper steps into the role, aiming for strategic growth amid challenging market conditions. Investors may anticipate changes in leadership dynamics that could affect long-term performance, given the competitive landscape. Key Highlights * Dave & Buster's Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ: PLAY) announced a significant leadership change as Tarun Lal has retired as CEO, effective August 3, 2026. * Darin Harper's elevation to CEO is a critical part of the transition at Dave & Buster's. * Harper's compensation package includes an annual salary of $650,000 and a target cash bonus equal to 100% of that salary, alongside long-term incentive plans valued at over $6.5 million. Dave & Buster's Entertainment, Inc. (NASDAQ: PLAY) announced a significant leadership change as Tarun Lal has retired as CEO, effective August 3, 2026. Darin Harper, who previously served as Chief Financial Officer since June 2024, will take over the CEO role. Lal's decision to step back is driven by a desire to spend more time with family in India. His departure marks the conclusive shift in leadership, prompting a reevaluation of company strategies and initiatives as they navigate a challenging market environment. Appointment of Darin Harper Darin Harper's elevation to CEO is a critical part of the transition at Dave & Buster's. Harper brings nearly three decades of experience in the consumer and entertainment sectors, previously serving as CFO of Main Event Entertainment before its acquisition by Dave & Buster's. His close work with Lal on the "Back to Basics" plan underscores his familiarity with the operational strategy that aims to enhance same-store sales and streamline performance. The transition reflects confidence in maintaining strategic continuity and bolstering operational effectiveness during a transformative time for the company. Financial Insights Harper's compensation package includes an annual salary of $650,000 and a target cash bonus equal to 100% of that salary, alongside long-term incentive plans valued at over $6.5 million. The employment agreement secures Harper's participation in various equity grants, aiming to align his interests with shareholder value. This strong financial backing demonstrates the board's commitment to providing Harper with the resources needed to drive future growth. The performance-dependent elements of his compensation suggest that achieving set metrics could be key to regaining share value, given that PLAY shares have declined by 37.7% year-to-date. Market Implications The stock has fluctuated within a 52-week range of $9.40 to $28.02, signaling investor concerns regarding its long-term prospects. Harper's appointment comes as the company faces short interest of 33% of outstanding shares, highlighting skepticism among investors. The board's faith in Harper could instill confidence, but momentum will hinge significantly on forthcoming strategic execution despite recent challenges in the competitive entertainment space. Future Monitoring Continued oversight of Dave & Buster's performance will be essential, particularly as Lal transitions out and Harper formulates his approach to leadership. The company plans to maintain Lal's advisory role until January 31, 2028, allowing for a gradual transition of responsibilities and ongoing strategic guidance. Investors should monitor the effectiveness of this leadership change and its potential impact on the "Back to Basics" strategy, with particular attention to results in the coming quarters, especially relating to same-store sales growth. Peers Moving on This News * United Parks & Resorts Inc (PRKS) little changed * Six Flags Entertainment Corp (FUN) down 0.8% * Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality Inc (PRSU) little changed Analysis based on the Form 8-K filed 4 August 2026; figures verified against the filing and live market data. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Please consult a licensed financial adviser before making investment decisions. FAQs. Q: What are the implications of Dave & Buster's new CEO for investors? A: The appointment of Darin Harper as CEO may signal a renewed focus on executing the company's strategic plans, potentially leading to improved financial performance. His experience will be important to addressing current market challenges. Q: When is the next major event for Dave & Buster's? A: The company will be under close observation until January 31, 2028, when Tarun Lal's consulting period ends, providing insight into the effectiveness of the leadership transition and the strategic direction under Darin Harper. Download Free Report - Explore 3 Stock Ideas & Industry Insights Unlock 3 stock ideas and key industry insights in its free report. This information is general in nature and does not consider your personal objectives, financial situation, or needs. It is not financial advice. All investments involve risk - consider independent advice before making any investment decisions. Disclaimer:
Dave & Buster's CEO departs. He will be replaced by the company's current CFO, Darin Harper, who has been at the company since 2024. August 04, 2026 Dave & Buster's Dave & Buster's CEO Tarun Lal has retired from his role after a little over a year in the job. Lal, who was appointed in July 2025, informed the company's board of directors of his decision on August 3, saying he wanted to spend more time with his family in India. Lal has agreed to serve as an advisor to the company at least until the end of FY2027. His successor is D&B's current CFO, Darin Harper. Harper has held the role since June 2024 and has nearly 30 years of experience across a number of entertainment and F&B companies. D&B says that Harper worked closely with Lal on the company's "back to basics" plan. 'Difficult decision to retire' Lal commented: "Leading Dave & Buster's has been one of the great privileges of my career. Recently, I have found myself needing to spend more time in India with my family. I have made the difficult personal decision to retire and transition full-time leadership to Darin, in whom I have great confidence. "I plan to remain involved with the business and have complete confidence in where this business is headed." The chairman of the board, Kevin Sheehan, added: "On behalf of the entire Board, I want to thank Tarun for his outstanding leadership and wish him and his family all the best. In his time as CEO, Tarun brought discipline, energy and a relentless focus on the guest back to this business, and the back-to-basics plan has put the company firmly on the right path. Darin is the clear choice to lead Dave & Buster's going forward and has the full support of the board. "He is an exceptional leader who understands every aspect of this business, is deeply respected throughout the organisation, and has been instrumental in developing and executing the strategy that is now delivering results." Cory Hatton, Dave & Buster's head of entertainment finance, investor relations and treasurer, will serve as interim CFO while the company searches for Harper's successor.
Dave & Buster's hires another CEO. Darin Harper has moved into the top executive position from CFO, succeeding Tarun Lal, who retired effective Aug. 3. Published Aug. 4, 2026 Editor's note: This story is developing and will be updated. Dive brief: * Dave & Buster's promoted Darin Harper, current CFO, to the CEO position, effective Monday, the company said in a Tuesday press release. * Harper succeeds Tarun Lal, who is retiring from his position. Lal, who joined the chain in 2025, will work with Harper during the transition and remain as a company advisor through the end of fiscal year 2027. * Harper joined the chain in 2024 and has worked closely with Lal to deploy the company's Back to Basics plan, which includes simplifying the customer experience and operating strategy to reverse falling revenue and sales.