Food Runner

Workstream; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 16,531 - 20,664; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Supportive team culture

Opportunities for growth

Flexible scheduling

Training and development

Job summary

Southern Kitchen Restaurant in Richmond, Virginia, is seeking a dedicated Food Runner to ensure seamless guest experiences. Responsibilities include delivering food accurately and timely, maintaining high standards of quality, supporting the team during service, and enhancing overall guest satisfaction. The ideal candidate should possess a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Join our welcoming team to be part of something special!

Qualifications

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to carry multiple plates safely and confidently.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.
• Availability for nights, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Deliver plates to the correct tables ensuring quality and accuracy.
• Assist servers and maintain cleanliness in service areas.
• Anticipate the needs of the floor and kitchen.

Skills

Attention to detail

Team player

Time management

Good communication

Job description

At Southern Kitchen, we believe:

“If it is to be, it’s up to me.”

That belief applies to every position in the building — especially this one.

The Food Runner plays a critical role in delivering a seamless guest experience. When this role is done with urgency, awareness, and ownership, service flows, food quality is protected, and guests feel taken care of.

This is not just a running role.

It is a standards role.

What Success Looks Like in This Role

You are successful here when:

• Every plate arrives at the correct table — hot, accurate, and complete.
• No dish leaves the window without being checked.
• The kitchen and dining room stay in rhythm because you protect the timing.
• Guests receive their food with confidence and clarity.
• Servers trust you because you anticipate what’s needed.
• The floor feels smooth — even during peak rush.

If service runs seamlessly, it’s because you took ownership.

Your Impact

Ownership of Quality & Accuracy

You are the final checkpoint before food reaches the guest. You confirm modifications, presentation, and completeness. You communicate immediately if something is not right.

You understand that once a plate hits the table, it represents the entire restaurant.

Ownership of Timing & Flow

During busy service, you move with urgency and focus. You anticipate when tickets are about to be ready. You help maintain the rhythm between expo, kitchen, and floor.

You don’t react to chaos — you prevent it.

Ownership of Guest Experience

You confidently announce dishes and know what you’re serving. You remain aware of your surroundings — refills needed, empty plates, guest concerns — and you step in without being asked.

At Southern Kitchen, there is no “not my table.”

Ownership of Team Support

You assist servers, support bussing when needed, restock stations, and protect cleanliness in service areas. You contribute to a focused, respectful team culture.

You don’t wait to be directed — you look for ways to elevate the team.

Who Thrives Here

• Individuals who move with urgency and purpose
• Detail-oriented team players
• People who stay calm under pressure
• Those who take pride in being dependable
• Self-motivated individuals who understand that timing is everything

Experience is helpful — but awareness, accountability, and work ethic matter more.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods
• Ability to carry multiple plates safely and confidently
• Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds
• Ability to work in a fast-paced dining environment
• Availability nights, weekends, and holidays

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Benefits

• A welcoming and supportive team culture
• Opportunities to grow within the company
• Flexible scheduling and competitive pay
• Training and development from experienced leaders
• A chance to be part of something special in RVA

We’re more than a restaurant — we’re a family. If you bring hustle, heart, and hospitality, we’d love to have you at our table.