SUMMARY:
The Banqueting Waiter is responsible for delivering exceptional food and beverage service during conferences, weddings, corporate functions, private events, and banquets. The role involves setting up event venues, serving guests professionally, maintaining high service standards, and ensuring every event runs smoothly. The ideal candidate is customer-focused, well-presented, and able to work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Key Responsibilities
Event Setup & Preparation
- Assist with the setup of banquet rooms and event venues according to function sheets and floor plans.
- Arrange tables, chairs, linen, crockery, cutlery, glassware, and décor as required.
- Ensure all event areas are clean, organised, and ready before guest arrival.
- Prepare buffet stations, beverage stations, and service areas.
Food & Beverage Service- Serve food and beverages professionally in accordance with company service standards.
- Provide plated, silver service, buffet, or cocktail service as required.
- Ensure food is served at the correct temperature and presented appropriately.
- Refill beverages, clear tables promptly, and maintain a clean dining environment.
- Respond to guest requests quickly and courteously.
Guest Service- Welcome guests in a friendly and professional manner.
- Deliver exceptional customer service throughout the event.
- Assist guests with seating and special dietary requirements where applicable.
- Handle guest enquiries and escalate concerns to the Banqueting Supervisor or Manager when necessary.
- Maintain a professional appearance and positive attitude at all times.
Event Operations- Follow event schedules and function sheets to ensure smooth service delivery.
- Work closely with the kitchen and banqueting team to coordinate food service.
- Assist with weddings, conferences, gala dinners, exhibitions, and corporate functions.
- Ensure efficient turnaround between events where multiple functions are scheduled.
Clearing & Breakdown- Clear tables efficiently throughout and after the event.
- Assist with dismantling banquet setups after functions.
- Clean and store equipment, furniture, crockery, cutlery, and glassware correctly.
- Ensure all event areas are left clean and ready for future functions.
Health & Safety- Follow food safety and hygiene procedures at all times.
- Ensure safe handling of food, beverages, and equipment.
- Adhere to health and safety regulations and company policies.
- Report any maintenance or safety concerns to management.
Teamwork- Work collaboratively with chefs, bartenders, supervisors, and fellow waiters.
- Assist colleagues during busy service periods.
- Attend staff briefings and training sessions.
- Support other Food & Beverage outlets when operationally required.
POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirements Grade 12 (Matric). Minimum 1-2 years' experience as a Banqueting Waiter, Waiter, or Food & Beverage Attendant in a hotel, lodge, resort, conference venue, or restaurant. Experience serving weddings, conferences, and large-scale events is advantageous. Qualifications Hospitality or Food & Beverage qualification (preferred). Food Safety\/HACCP certification (advantageous). Responsible Alcohol Service training (advantageous). Technical Skills Knowledge of banquet and conference service procedures. Understanding of plated, buffet, cocktail, and silver service styles. Food and beverage service knowledge. Basic wine and beverage service knowledge. Experience using POS systems (advantageous). Understanding of food safety and hygiene standards. Core Competencies Excellent customer service and communication skills. Professional appearance and grooming. Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment. Strong teamwork and interpersonal skills. Good organisational and time management abilities. Attention to detail. Ability to follow instructions and event schedules. Physical stamina to stand and carry trays for extended periods. Personal Attributes Friendly, polite, and service-oriented. Reliable, punctual, and hardworking. Positive attitude with a willingness to assist. Calm under pressure. Flexible and adaptable to changing operational needs. Committed to delivering exceptional guest experiences. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) Guest satisfaction and event feedback. Timeliness and efficiency of food and beverage service. Accuracy in event setup according to function sheets. Compliance with food safety and hygiene standards. Professional appearance and service standards. Teamwork and cooperation during events. Care and handling of equipment to minimise breakages. Successful execution of functions without service delays. Working Conditions Based in a hotel, lodge, resort, conference centre, or event venue. Requires flexible working hours, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Frequent standing, walking, lifting, and carrying trays or equipment. May work both indoors and outdoors, depending on the event location. Required to work weddings, conferences, banquets, gala dinners, and other special events.
