Banquet Captain

La Bahia Resort and Spa; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 64,000; Full time

Job summary

La Bahia Hotel & Spa is seeking a Banquet Captain to lead exceptional service at high-end events including weddings, conferences, galas, and private dining. You will guide plated meals, buffets, and wine service with meticulous timing and presentation, while maintaining the property’s luxury standards.

The role requires 3-4 years in upscale banquet service, strength to handle long periods on your feet, and the ability to coordinate with culinary and event teams to deliver flawless guest

Qualifications

• 3-4 years of experience in high-volume, upscale banquet service or luxury hotel/resort
• Experience in fine dining service techniques and etiquette
• Experience serving large groups (50+ guests) in formal event settings
• Wine service experience with knowledge of proper techniques and pairings
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time
• Knowledge of food safety protocols and proper handling procedures
• Multilingual abilities are highly preferred

Responsibilities

• Provide exceptional white-glove service during banquet events including weddings, conferences, galas, and private dining functions
• Serve plated meals, buffets, and stationed displays with precise timing and presentation
• Maintain knowledge of menu items and ingredients to answer guest questions
• Coordinate with kitchen staff and event managers to ensure seamless service
• Monitor guest needs and provide proactive, attentive service
• Maintain impeccable grooming and uniform standards during events
• Prepare and manage service timelines, course timing, and wine service
• Adapt service style based on event requirements and client preferences
• Assist with setup and breakdown while focusing on guest service
• Handle dietary restrictions with discretion and expertise

Skills

Communication

Multilingual

Stamina

Teamwork

POS Systems

Tools

POS Systems

Job description

Description

ABOUT US

Nestled along the Pacific Coast, La Bahia Hotel & Spa celebrates its dramatic setting where the tip of Monterey Bay touches Sana Cruz's coveted Main Beach. Steeped in the romantic beauty of Spanish-Mediterranean architecture, locals and travelers alike will savor globally influenced cuisine, cocktails and wellness rituals infused with the region's agricultural bounty and coast-cultured Spirit.

SUMMARY

We are seeking a detail-oriented Banquet Captain to join our team. This position is ideal for hospitality professionals who excel in high-end event service and take pride in creating memorable experiences for our guests during weddings, corporate functions, galas, and private celebrations. The ideal candidate will possess refined service skills, attention to detail, and the ability to create memorable dining experiences. By delivering impeccable service, the Banquet Captain will uphold La Bahia Hotel & Spa’s service standards (inspired by Forbes) while elevating our beachfront property.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITY

• Provide exceptional white-glove service during banquet events, including weddings, conferences, galas, and private dining functions
• Serve plated meals, buffets, and stationed food displays with attention to timing and presentation
• Maintain knowledge of menu items, ingredients, and preparation methods to answer guest inquiries
• Serve multi-course meals with precision timing and elegant presentation
• Provide expert wine service including proper pouring techniques, wine presentation, and knowledge of pairings
• Coordinate with kitchen staff, banquet captain, and event managers to ensure seamless service execution
• Monitor and anticipate guest needs throughout events, providing proactive and attentive service
• Ensure consistent service standards across events ranging from intimate dinners to large-scale celebrations
• Deliver personalized, anticipatory service that exceeds luxury hospitality expectations
• Engage with guests professionally while maintaining appropriate service boundaries
• Handle special requests and dietary restrictions with discretion and expertise
• Provide knowledgeable recommendations on menu items and wine selections
• Maintain composure and grace under pressure during high-profile events
• Execute detailed service timelines and coordinate course timing with culinary team
• Adapt service style and approach based on specific event requirements and client preferences
• Participate in pre-event briefings and contribute to service strategy discussions
• Support setup and breakdown activities while maintaining focus on guest service
• Maintain pristine table settings throughout multi-course events
• Execute proper clearing, resetting, and silverware replacement according to fine dining protocols
• Ensure water glasses remain filled and bread service is consistent
• Monitor and refresh linens, centerpieces, and table accessories as needed
• Maintain clean, organized service stations and work areas
• Maintain impeccable grooming standards, wearing the assigned uniform exactly as specified (proper fit, cleanliness, and presentation at all times
• Wear the official hotel lapel pin prominently as part of the uniform requirement, unless embroidered onto uniform
• Perform all other duties that may be assigned as needed by your manager

The following reflects management’s definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned. Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

QUALIFICATIONS

• (3-4) years of experience in high-volume, upscale banquet service, luxury hotel and/or resort preferred
• Experience in fine dining service techniques and etiquette highly preferred
• Experience serving large groups (50+ guests) in formal event settings
• Wine service experience with understanding of proper techniques and wine knowledge
• Experience with POS systems and guest checking procedures
• Ability to stand and walk for long periods of time
• Knowledge of food safety protocols and proper food handling procedures
• Ability to carry multiple plates using proper service techniques
• Understanding of dietary restrictions and allergy protocols
• Multilingual abilities highly preferred
• Ability to lift up to 30 lbs.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods
• Capable of maintaining composure during peak hours
• Ability to work in various weather conditions for outdoor events
• Excellent communication skills
• Flexible to work in different shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Highly organized with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment

This role offers a dynamic work environment where your contributions directly impact the guest experience. If you are dedicated to personalized service, guest satisfaction, and enjoy working in a high-end atmosphere, we invite you to join our Banquet team at La Bahia Hotel.