Banquet Server

NFM & J LP•Chicago, IL

About The Position

The Server is responsible for the complete service lifecycle of food and beverage in the restaurant operation(s). This associate must follow the required procedures for handling, cleaning, and disposing of all food and beverage items. This includes flatware, plateware and glassware. This associate will assist in maintaining the Maverick Hotel and Restaurant standards. This associate shall strive to provide exceptional hospitality to both internal and external guests at all times. This associate will be responsible for exemplifying the Maverick Hotel and Restaurants Culture as well as providing promotional expertise for the location as both a destination and a harmonious work environment.

Requirements

At least one year customer service experience required
At least six months food & beverage experience required
Must be a United States citizen or possess a valid work permit
Must be able to read, write and speak English
Must be 21+ years of age and possess Illinois Basset and Food Handling Certification
Must be able to work well under pressure
Must be able to accurately follow instructions, both verbally and written
Must be highly detailed orientated
Must be able to work in a fast-paced environment
Must have excellent listening skills
Must possesses excellent communication skills
Must be professional in appearance and demeanor
Must always ensure a teamwork environment
Ability to work a flexible schedule that may include evenings, weekends and holidays
Must have the ability to deal effectively and interact well with the guests and associates
Must have the ability to resolve problems/conflicts in a diplomatic and tactful manner
Must be knowledgeable and familiar with food and beverage industry
Must have a passion for creating an exceptional experience for all guests
Must be able to work in a variety of weather conditions (rain, wind, sun, heat)
Must be able to work indoors or outside
Must be able to stand on feet and walk throughout the day,
Must be able to frequently lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
Must be able to bend, squat, push, pull frequently
Must be able to climb stairs and walk on uneven surfaces on an occasional basis
Must be able to perform simple grasping, fine manipulation, and repetitive hand & arm movements frequently, squeezing, overhead reaching occasionally
High school diploma or equivalent

Nice To Haves

Banquet or catering experience preferred
Prior banquets experience preferred

Responsibilities

Maintain complete knowledge of and comply with all departmental policies/service procedures/standards
Maintain complete knowledge of correct maintenance and use of equipment. Use equipment only as intended
Anticipate guests’ needs, respond promptly and acknowledge all guests, however busy and whatever time of day
Always maintain positive guest relations
Be familiar with all location services and features and local attractions/activities in order to respond to guest inquiries accurately and professionally
Resolve guest inquiries and issues, ensuring guest satisfaction
Monitor and maintain cleanliness, sanitation and organization of assigned work areas
Maintain complete knowledge of service requirements for assigned function:
Pre-service side work
Detailed menu event selections, major ingredients, appearance, texture, quality standards, garnish and method of presentation
Characteristics/description of wines/champagne ordered
Prices for specified bar selections on cash bars
Station assignment and table set-up
Group name, type of function and expected attendance
Scheduled hours of service
Special requests/arrangements
Order of service, traffic flow in room
VIPs
Maintain complete knowledge of and strictly abide by state liquor regulations, particularly those prohibiting service to minors, intoxicated persons and drunk driving.
Maintain complete knowledge of P.O.S. and manual systems.
Complete pre-function side work:
Check quality and amount of all stock and supplies using checklist.
Requisition all necessary supplies and transport from Storeroom to service area.
Fold napkins, set linen/skirting on tables.
Set tables according to service standards.
Set up all condiments (butter, jellies, cream, juices) and beverages (non-alcoholic).
Ensure a sufficient supply of all silverware, glassware and chinaware for service.
Prepare all cold food items (cereals, fruits and salads) as assigned by the Supervisor.
Check cleanliness and condition of assigned station and service areas; rectify any inefficiency. Set-up side station as assigned by Maverick MOD
Greet guests as they arrive and assist them with seating at tables
Take guests' alcoholic beverage orders, utilizing suggestive selling techniques, when specified on function requirements
Record order of guest following departmental service procedures
Retrieve alcoholic beverage items from bar and serve to guest
Open and serve wine/champagne bottles
Make all varieties of coffee/teas
Serve all food courses and non-alcoholic beverage items to the guest in accordance with function requirements
Clear each course following procedures
Remove all tabletop items, linen and equipment from the function room as designated by function requirements
Set up, monitor, refresh and breakdown coffee breaks, receptions and buffet tables for specified functions according to group requirements
Complete closing side duties:
Breakdown all goods as specified
Clean all equipment as assigned
Restock items for next service
Properly store all reusable goods
Remove all dirty linen and transport to Laundry
Combine and stock all condiments
Secure storage areas
Adhere to Maverick Hotels and Restaurants policies/procedures.