Banquet Server

Gatewayames; Ames (IA); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Job summary

Gateway Hotel and Conference Center seeks a Banquet Server to deliver exceptional service at events and assist with setup, service, and teardown. You will engage with guests on the event floor, ensuring a polished dining experience and representing our brand with a customer-first mindset.

Ideal candidates are motivated, with strong teamwork and communication skills, capable of handling fast-paced events and lifting items as needed.

Qualifications

• Motivated, self-driven with strong initiative.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills; stay calm under pressure.
• Friendly, polished, professional demeanor; able to work fast-paced environments.
• Able to lift 25–50 lbs; maintain attention to detail.
• Willingness to learn, grow and take on increased responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Provide full-service food and beverage support for events.
• Set up, serve, and clear tables according to the BEO for seamless flow.
• Maintain proper food presentation and guest experience.
• Monitor service flow and adjust to ensure timely guest service.
• Greet guests and respond to needs in a courteous, professional manner.
• Coordinate with kitchen and service staff to ensure smooth event execution.
• Communicate clearly with team members and supervisors.

Skills

Initiative

Communication

Teamwork

Professional demeanor

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Job description

Description

Job Purpose: As a Banquet Server at Gateway Hotel and Conference Center, your main job is to provide exceptional customer service throughout every event. From welcoming guests with a smile to anticipating their needs and ensuring a seamless dining experience, you are a key part of what makes our events successful.

This is not just a behind-the-scenes role. You will be on the floor, interacting with guests, representing our brand, and delivering service that makes people want to return.

Key Responsibilities:

Event Service:

• Provide full-service food and beverage support, ensuring that each guest’s needs are met with efficiency and a positive attitude.
• Set up, serve, and clear tables according to the BEO, ensuring each detail is perfect and contributes to a seamless event flow.
• Maintain proper food presentation during service to support high-quality guest experience.
• Monitor service flow and adjust as needed to ensure events run smoothly and guests are attended promptly.

Guest Interaction:

• Greet and interact with guests in a professional, friendly manner.
• Anticipate and respond to guest needs in a courteous, professional manner.
• Address guest requests or concerns appropriately, escalating to leadership when necessary.
• Consistently represent our customer-first values.

Guest Interaction:

• Work closely with kitchen and service staff to coordinate food service and ensure the event runs smoothly.
• Communicate clearly and effectively with team members & supervisors to support event timelines and address any issues promptly.
• Assist fellow team members as needed to maintain service standards and ensure a positive guest experience.

Safety & Cleanliness:

• Follow all health and safety guidelines, ensuring the food service area and dining space are always clean, safe, and well-organized.
• Properly handle food, beverages, equipment and supplies according to company policy.
• Play an active role in maintaining room cleanliness and promptly communicate maintenance needs as they arise.
• Assist with stocking frequently used items and maintain proper FIFO procedures.

Additional:

• Demonstrate a willingness to participate in event setup and breakdown as needed to support successful event execution.
• Perform any additional tasks required to support the successful completion of events.

Why This Role Matters:

Guests come to us for more than food, they come for the experience. Every interaction, every detail matters. You are the face of our service, and your attitude, attention, and professionalism directly impact guest satisfaction.

Requirements

What We’re Looking For:

• Motivated, self-driven individuals with strong sense of initiative and work ethic.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.
• Friendly, polished, and professional demeanor.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Physical ability to lift 25 to 50 lbs
• Previous experience in hospitality, food service, or formal banquet/tray service preferred.
• Team player with a strong work ethic and positive attitude.
• Must complete I-PACT training upon hire.
• Ability to stay calm under pressure and handle guest issues with grace.
• Willingness to learn, grow and take on increased responsibility as needed.
• A genuine passion for making people feel welcome.

What You’ll Gain:

• A customer-focused work environment with a supportive team
• Flexible scheduling around events
• Experience that builds transferable skills in hospitality, event and guest services
• Opportunity for advancement as we grow