Banquet Server - On Call

Description

Job Title: Banquet Server and Private Dining Server

Job Summary:

The Banquet Server and Private Dining Server plays a key role in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere at the Duquesne Club. Each interaction with members and guests is conducted with professionalism, friendliness, and attentiveness to ensure a memorable experience. This role requires adherence to the highest standards of etiquette and service, along with other essential tasks to deliver a seamless dining experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide courteous, attentive service to members and guests in accordance with the Club’s service standards.
• Report to the designated area and receive assignments from the Banquet Captain. Responsibilities may include setting up china, glassware, linens, silverware, bread trays, and condiments.
• Complete pantry tasks and other preparatory duties as assigned.
• Follow assigned order-taking procedures:
• Order taken directly by wait person;
• Order taken by banquet captain and given to wait person;
• Order written directly by member or guest (at lunch).

Enter order for the kitchen following correct procedures.

• Monitor timing for each course (appetizers, soups, salads, entrées, and desserts) to ensure efficient service flow.
• Use correct underlining for courses and transport dishes using service trays via elevators or stairways.
• Apply appropriate service standards/techniques as directed by management.
• Clear plates promptly after each course and verify guest satisfaction.
• Transport soiled dishes to the designated pantry area, stacking neatly for removal.
• Crumb tables between courses and present finger bowls when appropriate.
• Process guest checks efficiently, ensuring all details are recorded accurately for billing. Present the check to the event contact prior to party departing from the banquet room. Follow the “Completion of Check” process. Checks should be closed in a timely manner.
• Assist with banquet room closing procedures, including clearing perishable items, disconnecting coffee pots, and disposing of ice.
• Communicate any issues or service challenges to the Banquet Captain or management promptly.
• Follow all Club’s policies and procedures.
• Follow all safety procedures and emergency protocols established by the Club, state, and Allegheny County.
• Adhere to OSHA standards in regard to “Right to Know” for handling and disposal of cleaning supplies and chemicals.
• Sanitize workstations thoroughly using approved cleaning agents throughout the shift.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves during cleaning tasks or food handling.
• Follow the Club’s workers' compensation guidelines and report injuries or hazards to the supervisor or Human Resources.
• Maintain professional grooming and hygiene in accordance with Club policies. Wear a clean and pressed uniform.
• Attend all scheduled meetings and training sessions.
• Be respectful of other employees and help out when needed. Teamwork is important—together everyone achieves more.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Requirements:

This position makes numerous exacting demands upon the employee. The meal may consist of seven courses and may be accompanied by various wines. The employee must know how to regulate service so that each course will immediately follow the one preceding, so that the guests do not feel a lack of attention. To perform this job competently, the employee must know the correct service techniques, how long it takes to complete any course, and must be able to intelligently plan for and regulate the service of numerous different meals when serving several groups simultaneously.

• Strength to carry trays weighing up to 35 lbs. at shoulder height (up to 10 dinners).
• Proficiency in timing and coordinating multi-course meals with appropriate wine pairings.
• Ability to stand and walk for the entire shift and perform tasks requiring bending, stooping, climbing, and reaching.
• Manual dexterity and excellent coordination to handle service equipment effectively.
• Ability to write, follow written/detailed instructions, read labels on chemicals/cleaning products, etc.
• Strong verbal communication and active listening skills to respond effectively to guests’ requests.
• Attention to Detail.
• Self-motivation to work independently and unsupervised.
• Knowledge of fine dining procedures, etiquette, social customs, POS systems.

Service Standards and Best Practices:

• Always greet members with a smile and address them by name.
• Inspect all dishes, glassware, and silverware for cleanliness before service.
• Serve and clear dishes from the left; serve and clear beverages from the right.
• Avoid stacking dishes in front of guests during removal.
• Handle glassware by the base and silverware by the handles.
• Always use a tray/liner when delivering items.
• Serve women first when both men and women are seated at the same table.
• Ensure tables are clean before serving dessert.
• Maintain a neat and professional appearance. Refrain from excessive jewelry, makeup, perfume, or aftershave. Secure long hair appropriately.
• Avoid chewing gum in dining areas.
• Strive to exceed guest expectations and deliver superior service.

Member-Focused Environment:

All staff at the Duquesne Club are expected to maintain a friendly demeanor, greeting members with a smile and addressing them by name. Going the extra mile to meet and exceed members’ expectations is part of our standard of service. As a conservative and prestigious environment, professionalism and attentiveness are essential qualities for success.

Why Work for the Duquesne Club:

The Duquesne Club offers one of the most comprehensive benefits packages in the Pittsburgh area. Benefits are offered to full-time employees after the probationary period.

• Medical Insurance: Competitive monthly co-premium payroll deduction.
• Health Reimbursement Account (HRA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options.
• Vision, Dental, Short-term and Long-term Disability, Life Insurance – provided at no cost to employees.
• Paid Time Off (PTO) and 401(k) with annual fixed contribution and match.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and partnership with a local gym for discounted memberships.
• Supplemental Insurance Packages through Colonial Life and Pet Insurance.
• Employee Dining Room with meals available for just $2.

The Duquesne Club fosters a welcoming and collaborative work environment. We take pride in being recognized as one of the top city clubs in the country, and we encourage motivated individuals to apply and become part of our team.

Please note: From time to time, the Duquesne Club reviews and updates its benefit programs and reserves the right to modify or discontinue them at its discretion.