Banquet Captain

Founders Inn and Spa Tapestry Collection by Hilton; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Banquet Captain to lead and direct banquet staff, ensuring exceptional guest experiences. This role involves overseeing the planning, organization, and execution of banquet events, with a strong emphasis on detail and service excellence. You will manage food service set-up, supervise staff, and ensure guest needs are met with anticipation and care. If you have a passion for hospitality and a commitment to delivering top-notch service, this opportunity offers a dynamic work environment with growth potential and various benefits, including travel discounts and tuition remission.

Benefits

401(k) with matching contributions

Comprehensive medical coverage

Weekly pay

Hilton travel discounts

Paid time off

Growth opportunities

Spa and restaurant discounts

100% tuition remission at Regent University

Complimentary employee meal per shift

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in banquet food service required.
• Strong understanding of various food service styles is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead and direct banquet staff to ensure exceptional guest experiences.
• Oversee planning and execution of all banquet events.

Skills

Customer Service

Leadership

Communication

Problem-Solving

Mathematical Skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

TIPS, CARE, or equivalent certification

Degree in a related field

Job description

Overview: The Banquet Captain at Founders Inn and Spa plays a pivotal role in delivering exceptional guest experiences by leading and directing banquet staff with an emphasis on detail and service excellence. The Captain is responsible for overseeing the planning, organizing, and execution of all banquet events, ensuring the highest level of food and beverage service. This includes managing the set-up and clean-up of food service, supervising service staff, and ensuring guest needs are met with anticipation and care.

Responsibilities:

• Evaluate new products to determine their suitability for banquet functions.
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and sanitation of work areas, including storage spaces.
• Review and interpret the Banquet Event Order (BEO) and assign tasks accordingly to staff.
• Ensure that banquet tables are set to exact standards—clean linen, silverware, china, and glassware, all in pristine condition.
• Ensure table complements (salt, pepper, sugar, breadbaskets, etc.) are properly cleaned, filled, and presented.
• Learn and understand the menu for each event, being able to explain ingredients and preparation methods to guests.
• Arrive early and be prepared to assist guests and staff at least 30 minutes before each event.
• Respond promptly to all guest requests, ensuring their needs are met.
• Maintain a clean and organized station throughout the event, refilling drinks and removing service items as needed.
• Oversee the set-up and break-down of buffets, coffee breaks, receptions, and other special food service stations, adhering to established policies.
• Manage the set-up, service, and breakdown of banquet bars, ensuring compliance with standards and policies.
• Follow all cash handling and guest check procedures as mandated. Ensure that all event billing is accurate and properly finalized at the conclusion of each shift.
• Continually support team members, assisting when necessary to maintain a smooth operation.
• Stay updated with the hotel’s events and guest details that may impact banquet responsibilities.
• Ensure compliance with responsible alcohol service policies and maintain certification.
• Mix and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to guests during events.

Availability: Must be available to work weekends and holidays, as these are key times for guest service in hospitality.

Coffee Break Duties:

• Set up, service, and clean all coffee break areas and carts, keeping them neat and presentable throughout the event.
• Ensure breaks are served within the timeframes specified on the BEO.
• Prepare beverages according to Founders Inn and Spa's standards, securing coolers and storage at the end of each shift.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Abide by all company, hotel, and departmental policies and procedures.
• Foster teamwork and a cooperative environment by assisting fellow employees as needed.
• Keep a strong focus on delivering top-notch customer service to all guests.

Education and Experience Requirements:

• High School Diploma or GED (or equivalent work experience).
• Minimum of 2 years of experience in banquet food service.
• At least 21 years of age to serve alcoholic beverages.
• TIPS, CARE, or equivalent certification required, or must obtain certification by the first day of employment.
• Strong understanding of various food service styles (e.g., French, Russian, Family Style, Butler service).
• Basic math skills for handling transactions and event logistics.
• Previous customer service experience preferred.
• Proficiency in English, with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Qualifications:

• Prior experience as a Banquet Captain is preferred.
• Familiarity with scheduling, purchase order processing, timecard calculations, and expense control systems is preferred.
• Degree in a related field or equivalent experience (minimum of 3 years).
• Ability to interact courteously and professionally with both guests and staff.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks within specific time constraints.
• Strong work ethic and a positive attitude.
• Proven leadership and ability to provide clear direction.
• Analytical skills to identify problems and interpret technical information.
• Mathematical skills for practical situations involving fractions, percentages, and ratios.
• Flexibility to work varied hours, including weekends and holidays.
• Commitment to personal development and training in supervisory skills.

BENEFITS:

• 401(k): Enjoy the benefits of a 401(k) plan with matching contributions.
• Medical Insurance (Dental and Vision): Comprehensive medical coverage, including dental and vision insurance.
• Weekly Pay: Receive regular and dependable weekly pay.
• Hilton Travel Discounts Worldwide: Unlock exclusive travel discounts at Hilton properties globally.
• Paid Time Off: Take advantage of paid time off to relax and recharge.
• Growth Opportunities: Explore and seize various growth opportunities within our organization.
• Spa and Restaurant Discounts: Access discounts for spa services and dining experiences.
• 100% Tuition Remission at Regent University: Pursue higher education with the benefit of 100% tuition remission at Regent University.
• Complimentary Employee Meal Per Shift: Enjoy a complimentary meal during each shift.

Founders Inn and Spa Tapestry Collection by Hilton