On Call Banquet Server

Job Details: Job Location: OC - Ocala, FL, Position Type: Part Time, Salary Range: Undisclosed, Job Summary/Overview

 The On-Call Banquet Server is responsible for providing exceptional food and beverage service at catered events, including corporate functions, weddings, galas, and social gatherings. This position is engaged on an as-needed basis and requires flexibility, professionalism, and the ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume environment. On-call servers are scheduled event-by-event and are expected to maintain the highest standards of hospitality service on every engagement.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The following statements describe the principal functions of this position and the scope of responsibility, but should not be considered an all-inclusive listing of work requirements.  Individuals may be expected to perform other duties as assigned, including working in other areas to cover absences or balance the workload.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Service & Guest Experience

Set up assigned banquet areas including tables, linens, centerpieces, flatware, glassware, and place settings according to event diagrams and standards.
Provide attentive, courteous service to all guests throughout the event, including food courses, beverage refills, and special requests.
Serve plated meals, family-style dishes, or buffet items professionally, following the order of service established by the Banquet Captain.
Maintain thorough knowledge of menu items, ingredients, and common allergens in order to answer guest inquiries accurately.
Anticipate guest needs and respond promptly to requests, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable dining experience.
Maintain a clean and organized work area throughout service, including bussing tables and removing used items between courses.

Setup & Breakdown

Arrive at the venue at the designated call time, in proper uniform, ready to begin setup immediately.
Assist with the full breakdown of event spaces following conclusion of service, including removal of linens, tableware, décor, and equipment.
Transport equipment and supplies to and from storage areas, catering vehicles, or loading areas as directed.
Return all rented or borrowed items to designated areas and report any damaged or missing equipment to a supervisor.

Teamwork & Communication

Work collaboratively with kitchen staff, fellow servers, bartenders, and event coordinators to ensure smooth event execution.
Follow all instructions from the Banquet Captain and Event Manager throughout the event.
Communicate any guest concerns, incidents, or service issues to a supervisor in a timely manner.
Assist other team members as needed to ensure all guests receive prompt, high-quality service.

Compliance & Safety

Adhere to all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards in accordance with local health codes and company policy.
Comply with responsible alcohol service guidelines and applicable state/local beverage laws at all times.
Follow all company policies, event-specific protocols, and venue rules throughout each engagement.
Report any unsafe conditions, accidents, or injuries to a supervisor immediately.
Qualifications: Qualifications (Education, Experience, Technical Skills)

Education and Experience:

High School Diploma or equivalent required; Associate's Degree preferred.
Previous event planning experience
3+ years of customer service experience.
Experience complying with food and beverage safety and sanitation regulations
Excellent communication skills are necessary for managing staff and taking direction from the Catering Manager, along with the ability to follow specifications accurately.
Obtain/hold any local, state, and/or county-required food handling/sanitation licenses and/or certificates
Minimum 1 year of banquet, catering, or service experience preferred; motivated candidates with strong hospitality backgrounds will be considered.
Ability to carry trays of food and beverage weighing up to 30 lbs. and remain on feet for extended periods (up to 8+ hours per shift).
Exceptional interpersonal skills with a genuine commitment to guest satisfaction.
Professional appearance and the ability to maintain composure under pressure in a high-volume environment.
Reliable transportation and the ability to commute to various venues on assigned event dates.
Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the event calendar.
Must be 18 years of age or older.

Skills and Knowledge:

Proven experience in event planning and coordination.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite or similar software.
Food service industry experience preferred.
Ability to work flexible shifts, including days, evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays, as required. 
Experience and proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and other relevant software

Preferred

Food handler's certification or ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain prior to first event).
TIPS, RBS, or equivalent responsible alcohol service certification.
Experience with French service, plated service, and large-scale buffet operations.
Bilingual or multilingual communication skills are a plus.

Personal Attributes:

Results-oriented and customer-focused.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to build and maintain positive relationships with team members, customers, and coworkers.
Adaptable and able to thrive in a fast-paced environment.
Demonstrated ability to take initiative and ownership of projects.
Honesty and integrity
Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion

Working Conditions:

On-call banquet servers work in a variety of indoor and outdoor event settings. The work environment may involve exposure to heat from kitchens, outdoor weather conditions, and varying noise levels. The following physical demands are representative of those that must be met to perform the essential functions of this role:

Prolonged standing and walking throughout the duration of events.
Frequent bending, stooping, and reaching above shoulder height.
Lifting and transporting supplies, equipment, and trays regularly.
Working in close proximity to kitchen equipment, open flames, and hot food and beverages.

Organizational Relationships

Reports to: Catering Manager

Supervises: none

Certifications and License

A valid Florida Driver's License with an acceptable driving history is required.

SERV-SAFE certified