Banquet Server

La Bahia Hotel; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 39,000 - 44,000; Part time

Job summary

La Bahia Hotel & Spa in Santa Cruz is seeking a detail-oriented Banquet Server to deliver flawless service at high-end weddings, corporate events, and celebrations. The role requires refined service skills, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to create memorable dining experiences while upholding our Forbes-inspired standards.

You will work with kitchen, bar, and events teams to execute plated and family-style service, manage wine service, and adapt to various venues and weather

Qualifications

• 2–3 years in high-volume, upscale banquet service.
• Experience with wine service and proper techniques.
• Experience serving large groups (50+ guests) in formal settings.

Responsibilities

• Execute plated and family-style banquet service.
• Serve multi-course meals with precise timing.
• Provide expert wine service including proper pouring techniques and pairings.
• Maintain knowledge of menu items and dietary accommodations.
• Coordinate service timelines with the culinary team.
• Collaborate with kitchen, bartending, and event management teams.
• Maintain pristine table settings and proper clearing procedures.
• Support setup and breakdown of events.
• Uphold Forbes-inspired service standards.

Skills

Refined service

Wine service

Multilingual abilities

Excellent communication

Highly organized

Tools

POS systems

Job 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 Server to join our team. This position requires delivering flawless service during high-end weddings, corporate events, and exclusive celebrations while maintaining the sophisticated standards our discerning guests expect. 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 Server will uphold La Bahia Hotel & Spa’s service standards (inspired by Forbes) while elevating our beachfront property.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITY:

• Execute formal banquet service styles including plated and family-style service
• Serve multi-course meals with precision timing and elegant presentation
• Provide expert wine service including proper pouring techniques, wine presentation, and knowledge of pairings
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of menu items, ingredients, preparation methods, and dietary accommodations
• 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
• Collaborate seamlessly with kitchen, bartending, and event management teams
• 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:

• (2-3) 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.
• 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.