About Company
Big Yard Restaurant & Bar stands as a culinary cornerstone in Santa Cruz, Saint Elizabeth, deeply woven into the fabric of the local community. For years, we have been more than just a place to eat; we are a gathering spot where friends and families come together to share laughter, celebrate milestones, and savor the rich, vibrant flavors of traditional Jamaican cuisine. Our establishment is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, where every guest feels like an honored member of our extended family. We are dedicated to sourcing fresh, local ingredients whenever possible, supporting our community, and preparing each dish with passion and authenticity. From our signature jerk chicken to our freshly prepared seafood and refreshing beverages, quality and flavor are at the heart of everything we do. At Big Yard, we believe in creating not just meals, but cherished memories, upholding a reputation built on excellent food, genuine hospitality, and a commitment to our patrons.
Job Description
Are you passionate about creating memorable dining experiences? Big Yard Restaurant & Bar, a beloved culinary landmark in Santa Cruz, Saint Elizabeth, is seeking enthusiastic and dedicated Waiters and Waitresses to join our vibrant team. We pride ourselves on offering authentic Jamaican flavors in a welcoming, community-focused atmosphere, making every meal an occasion for our guests. This isn’t just a job; it’s an opportunity to be the face of our establishment, to share our passion for food and hospitality, and to connect with our wonderful patrons, many of whom are regulars and cherished members of our extended community.
As a key member of our front-of-house staff, you will play a crucial role in ensuring our guests receive exceptional service from the moment they walk through our doors until their departure. Your primary goal will be to craft a seamless and enjoyable dining journey. This involves warmly greeting guests, escorting them to their tables, and presenting our delectable menu with confidence and flair. You will be expected to possess a thorough knowledge of our food and beverage offerings, including daily specials, ingredients, and potential allergens, to confidently answer questions and offer personalized recommendations that enhance their dining experience. Accurately taking food and drink orders, transmitting them to the kitchen and bar efficiently, and serving dishes and beverages promptly and gracefully are fundamental aspects of this role.
Beyond the technical aspects of service, your ability to anticipate guest needs, maintain a keen eye for detail, and respond to requests or resolve any issues courteously and professionally will be paramount. A clean and inviting dining environment is essential, and you will contribute to this by clearing tables, resetting them for new guests, and assisting with general restaurant upkeep. We are looking for individuals who are not only skilled but also genuinely enjoy interacting with people, bringing a positive energy to every shift, and working collaboratively within a close-knit team. If you thrive in a fast-paced setting, possess excellent interpersonal skills, and are eager to grow your career in the dynamic hospitality industry, we invite you to become a part of the Big Yard family. We are committed to providing thorough training and continuous development opportunities, ensuring you have all the tools to succeed and advance within our growing establishment. Join us in delivering an authentic taste of Jamaica and unforgettable hospitality in Santa Cruz!
Key Responsibilities
- Warmly greet guests and seat them promptly, providing menus and information on daily specials.
- Take accurate food and beverage orders, offering recommendations and answering questions about menu items.
- Enter orders into the point-of-sale (POS) system and communicate any special requests to the kitchen and bar staff.
- Serve food and beverages efficiently and courteously, ensuring guest satisfaction.
- Monitor table needs, clear dishes, and refresh drinks throughout the dining experience.
- Process guest payments accurately, handle cash and card transactions, and manage reconciliation.
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of dining areas, including tables, chairs, and service stations.
- Collaborate effectively with kitchen staff, bartenders, and other front-of-house team members.
- Handle guest complaints or concerns professionally and escalate issues to management when necessary.
- Adhere to all food safety and hygiene regulations.
Required Skills
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
- Strong communication abilities, both verbal and listening
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced team environment
- Attention to detail and accuracy in order taking and service
- Basic math skills for handling payments and making change
- Physical stamina to stand, walk, and carry trays for extended periods
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience as a Waiter/Waitress or in a similar customer-facing role within hospitality
- Familiarity with POS systems for order entry and payment processing
- Knowledge of Jamaican cuisine and beverages
- Ability to speak multiple languages (e.g., patois, Spanish) is a plus
- Food handler's permit or willingness to obtain one
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage plus tips
- Daily staff meals
- Opportunities for professional development and training
- Friendly and supportive team environment
- Potential for career advancement within the restaurant
- Employee discounts on food and beverages
How to Apply
To apply for this exciting opportunity to join the Big Yard Restaurant & Bar team, please click on the application link below. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to our family!