Lead Server Applebees

MATTESON RESTAURANT LLC; Matteson (IL); On-site; USD 15,153 - 19,286; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Employee discounts

Health insurance

Paid time off

Professional development and promotion

Job summary

Garnet Hotels is seeking an experienced Lead Server for Applebee's Matteson, IL. You will lead front-of-house operations, provide top-notch table service, and support management with training, daily tasks, and guest satisfaction.

The role emphasizes teamwork, guest engagement, and maintaining Marriott-level hospitality standards in a high-volume environment. Evening and weekend availability is required, with tips included in pay.

Qualifications

• Two years of serving in a high-volume, full-service restaurant or hotel.
• Lead Server, Trainer, or Shift Leader experience preferred.
• Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to train and motivate team members.
• POS-system and cash-handling experience.
• Knowledge of responsible alcohol service.
• Certifications upon hire (ServSafe, BASSET, or TIPS).

Responsibilities

• Provide friendly, attentive, and professional table service.
• Lead by example and promote teamwork and hospitality.
• Assist with daily dining-room operations.
• Train, coach, and support servers.
• Assist with onboarding new team members.
• Maintain knowledge of menu items and specials.
• Recommend food and beverages to guests.
• Monitor dining-room cleanliness and presentation.
• Coordinate with kitchen and bar teams for timely service.
• Assist with opening, closing, and side-work responsibilities.
• Support banquet, catering, and hotel dining events.
• Follow food-safety and responsible alcohol-service requirements.

Skills

Team leadership

Table service

Guest satisfaction

Training

Communication

Organization

POS system

Cash handling

Alcohol service

Education

ServSafe Food Handler certification

TIPS/BASSET or equivalent certification

Tools

POS-system

Job description

Benefits:

Employee discounts

Health insurance

Paid time off

Location: Applebee's Matteson, IL Department: Food & Beverage Reports To: Food & Beverage Manager Recommended Pay Range: $11.00-$14.00 per hour, plus tips

Position Summary

Garnet Hotels is seeking an experienced and guest-focused Lead Server to support the front-of-house operations of Applebee's at our dual-brand Delta Hotels and Fairfield Inn & Suites property in Matteson, Illinois.

The Lead Server is a working team leader who provides excellent table service while assisting management with training, daily operations, and guest satisfaction. The ideal candidate has strong restaurant experience, leadership skills, and a passion for hospitality.

Key Responsibilities

Provide friendly, attentive, and professional table service.

Lead by example and promote teamwork and excellent hospitality.

Assist with daily dining-room operations.

Train, coach, and support servers.

Assist with onboarding new team members.

Maintain knowledge of menu items, beverages, specials, and promotions.

Recommend food, beverages, and desserts to guests.

Monitor dining-room cleanliness and table presentation.

Assist with guest seating and service flow during busy periods.

Address guest concerns professionally and involve management when needed.

Coordinate with kitchen and bar teams for accurate and timely service.

Assist with opening, closing, and side-work responsibilities.

Support banquet, catering, and hotel dining events when needed.

Follow food-safety, sanitation, and responsible alcohol-service requirements.

Maintain Applebee's service standards and Marriott-level hospitality.

Qualifications

At least two years of serving experience in a high-volume, full-service restaurant or hotel.

Lead Server, Trainer, or Shift Leader experience is preferred.

Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

Ability to train and motivate team members.

POS-system and cash-handling experience.

Knowledge of responsible alcohol service.

ServSafe Food Handler certification or ability to obtain it upon hire.

BASSET, TIPS, or another approved alcohol-service certification, or ability to obtain it upon hire.

Applebee's, Marriott, banquet, or hotel-opening experience is a plus.

Physical and Scheduling Requirements

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

Ability to lift and carry up to 30 pounds.

Ability to carry trays and frequently bend and reach.

Availability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and busy service periods.

Benefits

Competitive hourly wage plus tips

Paid Time Off for eligible associates

Professional development and advancement opportunities

Supportive and collaborative work environment

Equal Employment Opportunity

Garnet Hotels is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merit, and business needs without regard to any status protected by applicable law.