Food Runner

Rhode Island Commerce; Newport (RI); On-site; USD 18,000 - 26,000; Full time

Job summary

Rhode Island Commerce in Newport, RI is seeking a Food Runner to shuttle dishes from the kitchen to guest tables promptly and professionally, working closely with kitchen, expo, and service staff to maintain food quality and timing.

You should be comfortable in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, possess strong communication and teamwork, and follow food safety procedures. Availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays is required.

Qualifications

• Experience in hospitality or food service preferred but not required.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic knowledge of food safety practices; certification a plus.
• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver food from the kitchen to the correct table quickly, accurately, and while maintaining proper food temperature and presentation.
• Confirm each dish against the ticket before leaving the kitchen, and check with expo or kitchen staff on any unclear items.
• Learn table numbers, seat positions, and menu items (including ingredients and preparation) to answer basic guest questions.
• Communicate clearly with servers, expo, and kitchen staff about order status, substitutions, and timing.
• Announce each dish to the table and confirm it matches the guest's order upon delivery.
• Assist servers with refilling water, clearing empty plates, and pre-bussing tables as needed.
• Flag any food quality, plating, or timing issues to the kitchen or manager immediately.
• Keep the expo line, tray stands, and food-running stations clean and organized throughout the shift.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and allergen-handling procedures.
• Support other front-of-house tasks during slower periods, as directed by management.

Skills

Teamwork

Communication

Fast-paced environment

Food safety basics

Customer service mindset

Job description

• Location 24 Memorial Boulevard West,Newport, RI, 02840,United States
• Base Pay $16.00 / Hour

Description

Position Summary

The Food Runner delivers food from the kitchen to guest tables promptly, accurately, and with a warm, professional presence. This role is essential to keeping food quality high and pacing smooth, working closely with kitchen, expo, and service staff to ensure every dish arrives correctly and at the right temperature.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver food from the kitchen to the correct table quickly, accurately, and while maintaining proper food temperature and presentation.
• Confirm each dish against the ticket before leaving the kitchen, and check with expo or kitchen staff on any unclear items.
• Learn table numbers, seat positions, and menu items (including ingredients and preparation) to answer basic guest questions.
• Communicate clearly with servers, expo, and kitchen staff about order status, substitutions, and timing.
• Announce each dish to the table and confirm it matches the guest's order upon delivery.
• Assist servers with refilling water, clearing empty plates, and pre-bussing tables as needed.
• Flag any food quality, plating, or timing issues to the kitchen or manager immediately.
• Keep the expo line, tray stands, and food-running stations clean and organized throughout the shift.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and allergen-handling procedures.
• Support other front-of-house tasks during slower periods, as directed by management.

Qualifications

• Prior restaurant, hospitality, or customer service experience preferred but not required.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Basic knowledge of food safety practices; food handler certification a plus (or obtained upon hire, per local requirements).
• Must be at least 18 years of age, or as required by local law.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for the full length of a shift (up to 8 hours).
• Ability to lift and carry loaded trays weighing up to 30 lbs.
• Ability to move quickly and safely through a busy dining room and kitchen.
• Comfortable working near heat, steam, and sharp equipment in kitchen areas.

Schedule

Availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays is required, based on restaurant business needs.