Search results for

Restaurant Jobs in the United States

Assistant Manager - Restaurant

Love's Travel Stops

Baker City, OR

Love’s continues its commitment to offer products and services that provide value for professional drivers, fleets, four-wheel customers, RVers, alternative fuel and wholesale fuel customers. Innovation and perseverance continue to lead the way for the family-owned and -operated business headquartered in Oklahoma City with more than 40,000 team members in North America and Europe.

25 days ago
General Manager - Restaurant

Love's Travel Stops

Stephentown, NY

Love’s continues its commitment to offer products and services that provide value for professional drivers, fleets, four-wheel customers, RVers, alternative fuel and wholesale fuel customers. Assist the General Manager of the facility with proper task execution and completion, follow effective safety practices, schedule and cash integrity, talent acquisition and development, and complete daily, weekly, and monthly reporting .

2 days ago
Restaurant Store Manager

Braum's

$70000 - $75500 YEAR

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK

General Manager's role: Braum's leaders execute the company's brand strategy and promote its vision, mission and values, resulting in a great customer experience and maximized sales. Restaurant Manager - Food Service Supervisor - ManagementIf you are a positive, energetic person looking for a career that offers an excellent compensation package and the chance for advancement, Braum's is the place for you!

7 days ago
Restaurant Assistant Manager (NIGHT)

Braum's

FT SMITH, AR

Assistant Restaurant Manager-Food Service Supervisor-ManagementIf you are a positive, energetic person looking for a career that offers an excellent compensation package and the chance for advancement, Braum's is the place for you! Assistant Manager's role: Braum's leaders execute the company's brand strategy and promote its vision, mission and values, resulting in a great customer experience and maximized sales.

12 days ago
Restaurant Assistant Manager (DAY)

Braum's

AMARILLO, TX

Assistant Restaurant Manager-Food Service Supervisor-ManagementIf you are a positive, energetic person looking for a career that offers an excellent compensation package and the chance for advancement, Braum's is the place for you! Assistant Manager's role: Braum's leaders execute the company's brand strategy and promote its vision, mission and values, resulting in a great customer experience and maximized sales.

12 days ago
Restaurant Assistant Manager

Braum's

LIBERAL, KS

Assistant Restaurant Manager-Food Service Supervisor-ManagementIf you are a positive, energetic person looking for a career that offers an excellent compensation package and the chance for advancement, Braum's is the place for you! Assistant Manager's role: Braum's leaders execute the company's brand strategy and promote its vision, mission and values, resulting in a great customer experience and maximized sales.

12 days ago
Restaurant Crewmember

Raising Cane's

$14 undefined

Morgantown, WV

Restaurant Crewmembers at Raising Cane’s will wear many hats (including a Raising Cane’s hat) while working hard and having fun as a critical part of the Restaurant team. Whether you have experience as a customer service associate, retail team member, cashier, restaurant server, kitchen lead, cook, prep cook, drive thru cashier or any other restaurant or service-oriented role - we have a position for you.

5 days ago
Restaurant Manager

California Pizza Kitchen

$25 - $30 HOUR

King Of Prussia, PA

Founded in 1985, former federal prosecutors Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax combined their fervor for food and fresh ingredients to create innovative, hearth-baked pizzas such as The Original BBQ Chicken, California Club and Thai Chicken that are created in a lively open kitchen. See California Pizza Kitchen Terms & Conditions at https://www.cpk.com/legal/terms-of-use and Privacy Policy at https://www.cpk.com/legal/privacy-policy and SonicJobs Privacy Policy at https://www.sonicjobs.com/us/privacy-policy and Terms of Use at https://www.sonicjobs.com/us/terms-conditions.

2 days ago
Hiring Assistant Restaurant Manager

Taco John's - Bremer Restaurant Management

$17.5 - $21 HOUR

Beatrice, NE

Taco John's in Beatrice, NE is looking for a talented and experienced fast-food leader who: Brings energy and a smile to work every day. For immediate consideration please complete our quick, mobile-friendly application at www.brmtj.com/careers.

5 days ago
Restaurant Leader

Raising Cane's

$65000 - $75000 YEAR

La Crosse, WI

It also includes both inside and outside work in varied temperatures, working with and around food products, common allergens, industrial equipment, commercial cleaning products that require the use of personal protective equipment and physical activities necessary to complete the responsibilities of the job. The physical work environment includes working in a fast-paced kitchen environment (which requires extended periods of physical exertion, such as walking, standing, lifting and bending) and interacting with customers.

4 days ago
Restaurant General Manager

Zaxby's

Indian Land, SC

Ensure team members receive proper training including ongoing mentoring, coaching, and development while holding team members accountable for their performance. Review performance metrics daily and develop action plans to enhance the execution of systems and processes to improve profitability, sales, and guest experience.

3 days ago
RESTAURANT MANAGERS

Denny's

$60000 - $75000 YEAR

East Greenbush, NY

Along with 1-2 other peer Restaurant Managers and/or Hourly Supervisors, Restaurant Managers will support the General Manager who has total accountability for the success of the restaurant. Additional responsibilities include focus on employee selection and retention, continuous operational improvement, understanding profit and loss statements, operating plans, and costs.

2 days ago
Restaurant Manager

Paws Up Montana

Greenough, MT

Aid in recruiting, hiring, and training and growing exceptional Food & Beverage team members; Plan and provide training and guidance daily, weekly, and monthly. The role of the Restaurant Service Manager is to ensure a high-quality dining experience in the restaurants, catered food and beverage offerings, and special events.

4 days ago
Restaurant Shift Supervisor

California Pizza Kitchen

Englewood, CO

Founded in 1985, former federal prosecutors Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax combined their fervor for food and fresh ingredients to create innovative, hearth-baked pizzas such as The Original BBQ Chicken, California Club and Thai Chicken that are created in a lively open kitchen. See California Pizza Kitchen Terms & Conditions at https://www.cpk.com/legal/terms-of-use and Privacy Policy at https://www.cpk.com/legal/privacy-policy and SonicJobs Privacy Policy at https://www.sonicjobs.com/us/privacy-policy and Terms of Use at https://www.sonicjobs.com/us/terms-conditions.

2 days ago
Restaurant District Manager

Braum's

$105000 - $120000 YEAR

Tulsa, OK

As a District Manager, you will oversee 6-8 restaurants where you will be responsible for the hiring and training of store managers, as well as coaching and providing leadership to each store's management team and crew to aid them in operating a successful and profitable store. District Manager Restaurant - Multi unit Food Service ManagementIf you are a positive, energetic person looking for a career that offers an excellent compensation package and the chance for advancement, Braum's is the place for you!

12 days ago
Restaurant Manager

Raising Cane's

$20 - $20.75 undefined

Akron, OH

It also includes both inside and outside work in varied temperatures, working with and around food products, common allergens, industrial equipment, commercial cleaning products that require the use of personal protective equipment and physical activities necessary to complete the responsibilities of the job. The physical work environment includes working in a fast-paced kitchen environment (which requires extended periods of physical exertion, such as walking, standing, lifting and bending) and interacting with customers.

2 days ago
Assistant Restaurant Leader

Raising Cane's

$55000 YEAR

West Lafayette, IN

It also includes both inside and outside work in varied temperatures, working with and around food products, common allergens, industrial equipment, commercial cleaning products that require the use of personal protective equipment and physical activities necessary to complete the responsibilities of the job. The physical work environment includes working in a fast-paced kitchen environment (which requires extended periods of physical exertion, such as walking, standing, lifting and bending) and interacting with customers.

6 days ago
Cook - Restaurant Team Member

Parkhurst Dining

Grove City, PA

Parkhurst Dining is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. · Ensure the quality of the food produced and maintain the quality and quantity of food throughout the service period, utilizing production sheets.

7 days ago
Cooks for Restaurant - Hiring Now

Parkhurst Dining

Grove City, PA

Parkhurst Dining is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. · Ensure the quality of the food produced and maintain the quality and quantity of food throughout the service period, utilizing production sheets.

7 days ago
Restaurant General Manager

Chicken Express

$23 - $28 HOUR

San Antonio, TX

The General Manager oversees all daily operations of the restaurant to ensure exceptional service guest service, strong financial performance, and a positive team culture. Monitor sales trends, drive local store marketing and work to improve guest satisfaction.

8 days ago
Team Member - Restaurant - Hiring Now

Parkhurst Dining

Grove City, PA

Parkhurst Dining is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. Parkhurst Dining is a family-owned and operated company that provides culinary, dining and catering services to over 80 organizations and universities.

7 days ago
Restaurant Team Member - Server - Hiring Now

Parkhurst Dining

Grove City, PA

Parkhurst Dining is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

7 days ago
Server - Restaurant Team Member

Parkhurst Dining

Grove City, PA

Parkhurst Dining is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. Parkhurst Dining is a family-owned and operated company that provides culinary, dining and catering services to over 80 organizations and universities.

7 days ago
Restaurant Team Member

Parkhurst Dining

Grove City, PA

Parkhurst Dining is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. Parkhurst Dining is a family-owned and operated company that provides culinary, dining and catering services to over 80 organizations and universities.

7 days ago
Cook - Restaurant - Hiring Now

Parkhurst Dining

Grove City, PA

Parkhurst Dining is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. · Ensure the quality of the food produced and maintain the quality and quantity of food throughout the service period, utilizing production sheets.

7 days ago
Restaurant Assistant Manager

Zaxby's

$20 - $22 undefined

Simpsonville, SC

To our guests, Zaxbys is more than just a place to eat – it’s a place to have fun, spend time with friends, and enjoy great food. Supervise, provide leadership, and coach team members to perform at their highest level of ability and strive to achieve quarterly goals.

13 days ago
Restaurant Manager

Pompano Beach

Pompano Beach, FL

restaurant manager, floor manager, dining room manager, waterfront dining, marina, hospitality, Pompano jobs, FOH manager, South Florida restaurants. If you love high-energy dining rooms, great music, great people, and leading by example, you ll fit right in here.

13 days ago
Senior Assistant Restaurant Manager - Fine Dining

Grand Canyon National Park Lodges

$45240 YEAR

Grand Canyon Village, AZ

Coach team members and Assistant Managers daily to improve performance, drive premium guest service, job satisfaction and maintaining team member morale, while reinforcing positive behaviors. Develop, institute, and follow up on all necessary training programs, operating procedures, opening / closing checklists / side work and cost control measurements for all line level positions within the department.

10 days ago
Assistant Manager / Protege (Mentor Opportunity - Fine Dining Restaurant

Massimo's Restaurant, Bar and Private Event Venue

$30 HOUR

Fremont, CA

As we look toward the next chapter of our business, we are seeking to mentor and develop a new generation of leadership someone eager to learn, grow, and eventually help manage or even one day own a restaurant. It s a hands-on, long-term opportunity to work directly under the restaurant owner and learn every aspect of what it takes to run a successful full-service restaurant.

13 days ago
Restaurant Manager - $60k

Self Opportunity - Daxtra Projects

$60000 YEAR

Grapevine, TX

A well-regarded neighborhood grill and bar is seeking a Restaurant Manager to support operations, team leadership, and guest service. Keywords: Restaurant Manager, Location: Grapevine, TX - 76051

Today
Assistant Director of Restaurant Operations South Burlington at Burlington International Airport,

The Skinny Pancake Burlington, Vermont

$70000 - $75000 YEAR

Burlington, VT

The Skinny Pancake, a Vermont-based creperie dedicated to local food and community connection, is seeking a dynamic, proactive, and experienced Assistant Director of Restaurant Operations to lead our team at the Burlington International Airport. With restaurants in Vermont, New York, and Massachusetts, we're growing and need a hospitality-driven leader ready to enhance guest experiences, support team development, and ensure operational excellence.

6 days ago
Restaurant GM

Lona's Lil Eats

$70000 YEAR

St. Louis, MO

Think of this role as a cross between a restaurateur and a Trader Joe s captain : present on the floor, genuinely kind, a little quirky, deeply organized, and obsessed with making things better for everyone who walks through the door. We re now looking for a General Manager who wants to build a joyful, high-functioning team and make our dining room feel like the best version of home for both guests and staff.

10 days ago
Restaurant Store Manager

East of Chicago Pizza

Bridgeport, WV

CRMWV currently owns two East of Chicago Pizza franchises (Shinnston & Bridgeport, as well as Gibby's Ice Cream & Grill in Shinnston. Chalfant Restaurant Management (CRMWV) is an independently & locally owned and operated company based in North Central West Virginia.

9 days ago
Restaurant General Manager

Straw Hat Restaurant

Meads Bay, WV

As of 2026, our organization is seeking a highly accomplished General Manager to spearhead operations at our high-volume world-renowned restaurant. Strategic Leadership: Direct all daily operations, aligning front-of-house excellence with back-of-house efficiency to ensure a seamless guest experience.

13 days ago
Field Maintenance Technician I - Restaurant Equipment

cumberlandfarmsinc

$19.85 - $26.46 undefined

Worcester, MA

Preferred Experience: 2+ years of experience repairing food service equipment such as high speed ovens, food warmers, coffee brewers, frozen beverage equipment (Brand: Taylor or FBD), fountain soda units, roller grills and other related equipment. You can find us operating under the following store banners: Certified Oil, Cumberland Farms, Fastrac, Kwik Shop, Loaf N Jug, Minit Mart, Sprint Food Stores, Tom Thumb, Turkey Hill, and Quik Stop.

2 days ago
Restaurant Manager

Fricker's USA, LLC

Centerville, OH

New Year, Fun New FRICKER”S Restaurant Manager career, Come Join the Fricker’s Family, where we have Fun, Food, Sports and Spirts since 1985. PreferredWork-Life Balance: Inspired to perform well by having ample time to pursue work and interests outside of work.

5 days ago
Head Chef - NEW farm to table Restaurant

Christopher Springs Farm

$50000 - $60000 YEAR

Cadiz, OH

We started with a revitalization of a century farm and want to grow to create an integrated business of growing and creating good food to restore the experience of gathering over a table with family, friends and coworkers and to feel good about what we eat and where we eat. Menu Development: Design and finalize innovative and appealing menus (breakfast, lunch, dinner, dessert, coffee shop, and event menus) that align with the restaurant's existing concept, growing audience, and budget.

10 days ago
Dishwasher - Restaurant Team Member

Eat n Park

$12 undefined

Mcmurray, PA

Eat’n Park Restaurants is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. Keep outside areas of restaurant clean including cleaning up litter, clearing walkways, removing snow, and other general maintenance duties.

Today
Restaurant Team Member - Dishwasher - Hiring Now

Eat n Park

$12 undefined

Mcmurray, PA

Eat’n Park Restaurants is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. Keep outside areas of restaurant clean including cleaning up litter, clearing walkways, removing snow, and other general maintenance duties.

Today
Restaurant General Manager

SSP

$65000 undefined

Windsor Locks, CT

You lead the full restaurant operation, collaborate with airport authorities, coach a diverse team, and make decisions that drive guest experience, financial results, and team culture. Join SSP America as our next Restaurant General Manager and guide a full-service concept in one of the most dynamic, fast-paced environments in the industry.

7 days ago
Cook - Restaurant - Hiring Now

Eat n Park

$13 - $15 undefined

Mcmurray, PA

Eat’n Park Restaurants is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. This position is eligible for a one hundred dollar bonus per quarter when working an average of 35 hours per week over the course of the entire quarter.

Today
Cook - Restaurant Team Member

Eat n Park

$13 - $15 undefined

Mcmurray, PA

Eat’n Park Restaurants is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. This position is eligible for a one hundred dollar bonus per quarter when working an average of 35 hours per week over the course of the entire quarter.

Today
Cooks for Restaurant - Hiring Now

Eat n Park

$13 - $15 undefined

Mcmurray, PA

Eat’n Park Restaurants is part of Eat’n Park Hospitality Group, a regional portfolio of foodservice concepts serving 50 million guests annually in its restaurants, on college and corporate campuses and in every state through our online store. This position is eligible for a one hundred dollar bonus per quarter when working an average of 35 hours per week over the course of the entire quarter.

Today
Field Maintenance Technician - Restaurant Equipment

cumberlandfarmsinc

$19.33 - $25.77 undefined

East Syracuse, NY

Preferred Experience: 2+ years of experience repairing food service equipment such as high speed ovens, food warmers, coffee brewers, frozen beverage equipment (Brand: Taylor or FBD), fountain soda units, roller grills and other related equipment. You can find us operating under the following store banners: Certified Oil, Cumberland Farms, Fastrac, Kwik Shop, Loaf N Jug, Minit Mart, Sprint Food Stores, Tom Thumb, Turkey Hill, and Quik Stop.

5 days ago
Senior Accountant - Restaurant / Food Industry

Kforce Inc.

$68000 - $80000 annually

Babylon, NY

Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. By clicking “Apply Today” you agree to receive calls, AI-generated calls, text messages or emails from Kforce and its affiliates, and service providers.

12 days ago
Field Maintenance Technician II - Restaurant Equipment

cumberlandfarmsinc

$22.25 - $29.67 undefined

NASHUA, NH

You can find us operating under the following store banners: Certified Oil, Cumberland Farms, Fastrac, Kwik Shop, Loaf N Jug, Minit Mart, Sprint Food Stores, Tom Thumb, Turkey Hill, and Quik Stop. If you have a passion for delivering exceptional results, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and bring experience in business management or related areas, we'd love to meet you - even if you don't meet every single requirement.

2 days ago
Restaurant Server

SSP

$25 undefined

Appleton, WI

Basic mathematical skills necessary to operate a cash register, make change, total guest checks, count total bank, prepare cash drops, etc. Prepare dishes for service, to include ladling soup, tossing salads, cutting portions of pie and desserts, and brewing coffee.

1 day ago
Restaurant Utility Worker (Full-Time)

Zaxby's

Westfield, IN

Regularly and proactively inspect grounds, plumbing, electrical fixtures and outlets, kitchen equipment and the buildings for preventative measures. To our guests, Zaxbys is more than just a place to eat – it’s a place to have fun, spend time with friends, and enjoy great food.

1 day ago
Restaurant Utility Worker (Part-Time)

Zaxby's

Dillon, SC

Regularly and proactively inspect grounds, plumbing, electrical fixtures and outlets, kitchen equipment and the buildings for preventative measures. To our guests, Zaxbys is more than just a place to eat – it’s a place to have fun, spend time with friends, and enjoy great food.

1 day ago
General Manager Restaurant

Panera Bread

Tuscaloosa, AL

Build subject matter experts within your cafe by coaching your managers and associates on certain responsibilities and then delegating those responsiblities to them. Lead your cafe through ongoing training, including people development, coaching, planning and prioritization, and creative problem solving.

1 day ago

Restaurant Jobs Overview

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that food service jobs will grow by 9% over the next 10 years. That’s faster than many other jobs. You might be looking at restaurant jobs to find something for the summer or on a part-time basis, or you may be thinking of a career in the restaurant business.

The typical restaurant has many types of jobs. If you’re interested in being the top dog and overseeing all aspects of restaurant operations, look for restaurant manager jobs. Roles inside the kitchen or on the floor of a restaurant include:

  • Chef: Culinary expert creating and preparing a variety of delicious and visually appealing dishes while supervising the kitchen staff and maintaining quality standards.
  • Pastry chef: Specializes in creating delectable desserts, pastries, and baked goods, demonstrating skills in pastry techniques, flavor combinations, and artistic presentation.
  • Sous chef: Assists the head chef in managing the kitchen, coordinating food preparation, maintaining inventory, and ensuring consistent quality and timely execution of dishes.
  • Dishwasher: Maintains cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen, washing and organizing dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment, and supporting the kitchen staff as needed.
  • Server: Provides friendly and efficient service to restaurant guests, taking orders, delivering food and beverage, and ensuring an enjoyable dining experience.
  • Bartender: Skilled in mixing and serving a wide range of beverages while engaging with customers, taking orders, and creating a welcoming atmosphere at the bar.
  • Busser: Supports the dining experience by clearing and setting tables, refilling water glasses, assisting servers, and maintaining cleanliness and organization in the dining area.

How Much Do Jobs in Restaurants Pay?

Restaurant pay varies by job. According to Monster, the median pay for a general food service job in the U.S. is $11.64 per hour within a range from $9.79 to $14.85. Here are the average wages for other common restaurant jobs:

Restaurant employees who work on the floor bolster their earnings by also getting tips and often share them with kitchen staff. Use Monster’s Salary Tools to learn what salary to expect in restaurant jobs around the country.

How to Find the Restaurant Job That Fits You

When exploring restaurant jobs, it’s important to understand that each role may require specific skills, qualifications, and experience. Even if you have your sights set on a particular job, taking the time to assess your own abilities and goals, as well as carefully reading the job description, is crucial in finding the right fit.

  • Research different types of restaurant jobs to discover which appeal to you the most.
  • Consider internships or entry-level positions to gain practical experience and learn about various roles within a restaurant.

Assess Your Skills and Qualifications for Restaurant Jobs

Take an inventory of your strengths, weakness, and relevant experience. Consider your culinary skills, communication abilities, leadership potential, and any specific certifications or training you possess to help you understand which roles you’re best suited for. So, for example, if you excel in pastry making, pursuing a job as a pastry chef or baker might be a perfect fit.

Determine Your Career Goals

By reflecting on your long-term aspirations and understanding your goals, your job search will go smoother. For example, ask yourself:

  • Am I passionate about a specific culinary niche?
  • Do I see myself climbing the ladder of management in the restaurant industry?
  • Do I want to remain in this industry long-term or cross into another industry at some point?

Read the Job Description and Research the Employer

Carefully examine the requirements, responsibilities, and qualifications listed in each job description and compare them to your background. Then, research the restaurant or chain online to learn about things like:

  • the number of restaurants they operate
  • if they offer employee benefits
  • when they first opened

Lastly, consider visiting the restaurant in person and having a meal there to have your own client perspective and gather precious information for your application and interview.

How to Apply to Restaurant Jobs

Land the restaurant job of your dreams, that satisfies your passion for food and hospitality, by using a strategic approach and tailoring your job application.

What Makes a Good Resume for Jobs in Restaurants?

Crafting an attention-grabbing resume is essential when applying for restaurant jobs. Here are some tips to help you make a strong impression:

  • Emphasize your experience in the restaurant industry and include specific achievements. When possible, use numbers to quantify your accomplishments. For example: “Implemented new inventory management system, reducing food waste by 15% and saving 5,000% annually” or “Served an average of 100 guests per shift with 95% positive customer feedback”.
  • Showcase your skills and include any culinary training, certifications, or courses related to the restaurant industry. For example: “Certified in Food Safety and Sanitation by the National Restaurant Association”.
  • Don’t know where to start writing your resume? Choose one of Monster’s food service resume examples and edit it with your information. For extra help, check out Monster’s Professional Resume Writing Services for expert support.

What to Include in Your Cover Letter

With your cover letter you can demonstrate your genuine interest in working in the restaurant industry and showcase your personality. Consider the following tips and read Monster’s food service cover letter examples for more advice and ideas.

  • Show passion and express your love for food, hospitality, and providing exceptional service. For example: “From savoring exotic flavors during my travels to experimenting with recipes in my own kitchen, my passion for the culinary arts has been a lifelong journey”.
  • Customize your letter for each application by mentioning specific aspects of the restaurant, such as its cuisine, ambiance, or values. For example: “I am particularly drawn to your restaurant’s commitment to sustainable sourcing and creating innovative farm-to-table dishes”.
  • Connect your skills and experiences to the job requirements and explain how they can contribute to the restaurant’s success. For example: “My ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment, combined with my extensive knowledge of wine pairing, would allow me to excel as a server at your fine dining establishment”.

Submit Your Application

Get a seat at the table with help from Monster.

  • Become a VIP candidate for restaurant jobs by signing up on Monster for free.
  • Complete your profile with up to five resumes for jobs at restaurants to share with recruiters and hiring managers looking for great employees.
  • Activate the notifications for an express service where we send new job postings and career advice straight to your inbox.
  • Browse our job board and click on “Apply” to upload your application material. Make sure to send a resume and cover letter optimized for the role.

How to Follow Up on Your Job Applications

If you are truly committed to getting the job and haven’t heard back about your application, consider following up with the employer.

  • First, check if the job posting mentions specific follow-up instructions you should adhere to. If not, wait at least a week or two after submitting your application to give the employer ample time to review and shortlist candidates.
  • When following up, be professional, courteous, and concise. Depending on the employer and restaurant job you applied for, decide if you want to reach out via email, phone, or in person.
  • If the job posting provides a specific contact person, direct your follow-up communication to them. If not, reach out to the HR department or use the generic contact information provided on the restaurant’s website.

Interviewing for Jobs at Restaurants

While you can never be certain of the exact questions the hiring manager will ask you during an interview, you can prepare for common interview topics.

How to Prepare for Your Restaurant Job Interviews

To present yourself as a strong candidate and make a lasting impression, consider the following when preparing for your job interview.

  • If you haven’t already done it, gain knowledge about the restaurant’s cuisine, atmosphere, values, menu, reviews, and any recent news. This will allow you to make genuine comments about the establishment and demonstrate that you took the time to do your research. For example: “I noticed that your restaurant specializes in farm-to-table dining, and I appreciate your commitment to using locally sourced ingredients to create your innovative dishes.”
  • Depending on the job, on top of practicing answering common questions, remember to prepare for any practical aspect of your interview as well. For example, if your interview is for a restaurant job like chef or baker, you most likely will have to cook a few dishes to prove your talent.

Common Interview Questions for Restaurant Jobs

Here are some common interview questions you may encounter when interviewing for jobs in restaurants:

  • How do you handle customer complaints or a difficult situation?
  • What steps do you take to ensure food safety and hygiene?
  • Can you give me an example of a time when you went above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service?
  • How do you handle stress and pressure during busy shifts?
  • Describe your approach to working in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Following Up After Your Job Interviews

Within 24 to 48 hours of your job interview send a personalized thank-you email to communicate your appreciation for the opportunity and continued interest. Keep your communication professional and concise, mention specific points discussed during the interview and reinforce your qualifications. If after a reasonable amount of time you haven’t received any news, consider following up with another brief message to ask about your application.

What to Do When You Get an Offer for a Restaurant Job?

Respond promptly, possibly within 24 to 48 hours, to acknowledge the offer even if you aren’t ready to accept. Before you do accept the job offer, consider doing the following:

  • Seek clarity on important details such as scheduling, job responsibilities, training, and advancement opportunities.
  • Evaluate salary and benefits and, if you want to negotiate, research industry standards and be prepared to articulate why you deserve a higher salary of specific benefits.
  • Review the contract paying particular attention to terms, conditions, and non-compete clauses.
  • If you decide not to accept the offer, communicate your decision in a professional and timely manner.

Career Paths for Jobs in Restaurants

Most restaurants train you on the job. If you work as a server or hostess, you’ll work with an experienced employee until you’re ready to be on your own. Some bartenders start work as barbacks and learn how to mix drinks over time. You can also take classes to get a jump on a bartender job. But if you want to be a chef, especially at a fine dining establishment, you’ll need some outside training at a culinary school.

Career paths for jobs in restaurants can vary based on individual interests, skills, and opportunities. Many professionals in the restaurant industry gain experience in different roles and work their way up through a combination of hands-on experience and continuous learning.

For example, a line cook’s career growth may involve moving up to a sous chef, head chef, or kitchen manager. A restaurant manager can become a regional manager or a consultant providing services to help restaurants improve operations and profitability.

Similar Occupations

Take a look at all the food service jobs on Monster. You can then narrow it down to jobs such as: