Busser / Runner (Bar Back Support) Blackbird

Hotel Californian•Santa Barbara, CA

1d•$17

About The Position

At Blackbird, service is a performance—every movement, detail, and interaction contributes to a larger story. Guests don’t remember restaurants. They remember worlds. The Busser / Runner plays a critical role in delivering that world. This position ensures the flow, rhythm, and precision of service, supporting both the dining room and bar with seamless execution. This is not a passive support role—it is a highly visible, highly intentional position responsible for maintaining the pace, cleanliness, and energy of the guest experience. This role also includes occasional bar back responsibilities, requiring a strong sense of urgency, organization, and awareness of the full guest journey. This position requires candidates to be 21 years of age or older. About Blackbird Blackbird is a coastal gastropub with an upscale bar sensibility, where familiar dishes are subtly reimagined through elevated technique and thoughtful contrast. The experience is designed to unfold like a film—intentional pacing, layered moments, and a memorable finish. Our team is responsible for ensuring that every detail supports this narrative.

Requirements

Must be 21 years of age or older
Previous experience in: Restaurant support roles (busser, runner, or bar back preferred)
Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-standard hospitality environment
Strong attention to detail and organization
Ability to lift and carry trays, glassware racks, and supplies
Team-oriented mindset with a strong work ethic

Responsibilities

Maintain immaculate table presentation at all times: Reset tables quickly and precisely to brand standards Polish and align glassware, flatware, and service elements
Support servers through: Timely food running with accuracy and awareness Clearing and coursing tables with discretion and efficiency Anticipate guest and team needs without direction
Ensure the dining room maintains a clean, calm, and controlled environment
Deliver dishes with confidence, accuracy, and proper positioning
Understand menu items sufficiently to: Identify dishes Support basic descriptions when needed
Maintain pacing aligned with Blackbird’s service philosophy: Never rushed, never delayed—always intentional
Assist bartenders with: Stocking glassware, spirits, beer, and wine Replenishing ice, garnishes, and bar tools Maintaining cleanliness and organization of the bar
Support execution of beverage service through: Efficient glass polishing Quick reset of bar stations
Ensure bar operations run smoothly during peak service periods
Maintain cleanliness of: Dining room Service stations Bar areas
Follow all sanitation and safety standards consistently
Keep all service areas fully stocked and guest-ready at all times
Work closely with: Servers Bartenders Culinary team
Communicate clearly and proactively to support service flow
Step into different support roles as needed to ensure seamless execution
Move with purpose and quiet urgency
Maintain awareness of the full room at all times
Support the experience without drawing attention to the mechanics behind it
Every action should support the question: “Will our muse love this?”