Busser / Food Runner

Description

Job Title: Busser / Food Runner – Concept/PropertyNameConcept/PropertyName
Location: City,StateCity,State
Reports To: Floor Manager / Assistant General Manager / General Manager
Department: Front of House – Service Support
Employment Type: Hourly, Non-Exempt (Tipped, where applicable)

About José Andrés Group

José Andrés Group (JAG) is a hospitality company led by Chef José Andrés, known for outstanding guest experiences, innovation, and a values-driven culture. Our teams bring world-class food and warm hospitality to life across acclaimed concepts worldwide.

Position Summary

Bussers/Food Runners are the heartbeat of service flow. You’ll support servers and bartenders by executing fast, accurate table resets, delivering dishes to the correct seat numbers, maintaining water and bread service, and keeping the dining room pristine—so every guest experience JAG’s warm, polished hospitality.

Key Responsibilities

Guest Service & Support

• Deliver food to correct seat numbers; announce dishes clearly and handle allergen callouts per protocol.
• Maintain water, bread, share plates, silverware, and condiments; anticipate needs and assist with pre-bussing.
• Support guest requests quickly and graciously; loop in the server or manager when needed.

Table Maintenance & Reset

• Keep tables tidy throughout the meal; clear courses efficiently without disrupting the experience.
• Reset tables to standard with correct place settings, glassware, and tabletop details.
• Maintain clean, organized server stations and side stands.

Expo & Runner Coordination

• Communicate with expo and kitchen to protect food quality and ticket times.
• Consolidate and stage trays/hot boxes; prioritize by fire time and coursing.
• Assist with coursing, marking, and delivering share plates and utensils.

Cleanliness, Sanitation & Safety

• Follow DOH and JAG sanitation standards: handwashing, polish cloth hygiene, and cross-contamination prevention.
• Sweep, spot-mop, and maintain floors, service stations, and restrooms to standard.
• Handle glass and sharp items safely; use proper tray and hot-plate techniques.

Stocking & Readiness

• Restock glassware, china, silver, linens, napkins, polish kits, and service tools to par.
• Maintain organization of side work areas, polishing setups, and storage shelves.
• Assist with opening/closing and deep-clean side work per checklist.

Teamwork & Communication

• Support servers, bartenders, and hosts during peak periods; jump in where needed to keep service moving.
• Participate in pre-shift lineups and tastings; retain menu knowledge to answer basic guest questions.
• Communicate 86s, allergies, guest concerns, and safety issues promptly to leadership.

Equal Opportunity Employer

José Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify Program.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• 6+ months of FOH experience (busser, runner, barback, or similar) in high-volume, upscale casual or fine dining preferred; we’ll train the right candidate.
• Ability to carry trays and safely deliver multiple plates, strong awareness of seat numbers and table maps.
• Clear, professional communication; calm and efficient under pressure.
• Knowledge of basic sanitation and food-safety practices; Food Handler certification (or ability to obtain).
• Reliable attendance and schedule flexibility (nights, weekends, holidays).

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Stand/walk for extended periods (up to 8+ hours); frequent bending, reaching, and stair use (where applicable).
• Lift/carry up to 35–40 lbs.; balance and maneuver loaded trays.
• Work around hot/cold items, cleaning chemicals, and variable noise/lighting; slip-resistant footwear required.

In Return, We Offer You

• Competitive hourly pay plus tips (where applicable)
• Opportunities for growth, cross-training, and advancement
• Employee dining and partner discounts
• Access to health & wellness benefits where eligible