Waitstaff

The Bristal; Jericho (NY); On-site; USD 32,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

The Bristal in Jericho, NY is seeking a friendly Dining Services Assistant to greet residents and guests, seat them, and assist with meal service in our community dining areas.

You will take orders, monitor dietary needs, coordinate with kitchen for special requests, serve meals and beverages accurately, and keep the dining area clean and welcoming.

This role emphasizes teamwork with kitchen staff to ensure smooth service and a positive, home-like dining experience for residents.

Responsibilities

• Greet residents and guests and seat them
• Take meal orders and relay dietary needs to kitchen
• Serve meals and beverages accurately and with courtesy
• Maintain dining area cleanliness and reset tables between courses
• Assist kitchen staff with plating and portion controls as needed

Job description

• Check floor plan for assigned station and side work.
• Greet all residents and guests. Assist residents to table and help them fold walkers as needed.
• Distribute/collect menus. Take meal orders, monitor residents’ dietary needs and make menu suggestions accordingly.
• Assist in the plating and proper portion controls of some or all of the following: appetizer, salads, soup, beverages and desserts for residents and guests.
• Before serving, check the meal to ensure that it is appetizing in appearance and aroma and will present well.
• Serve meals and beverages to residents, ensuring accuracy and promptness.
• Monitor resident’s eating habits and report anything unusual to the Director of Wellness.
• Check back to tables after the meal is served to see that meal is acceptable and that residents have everything needed for a satisfying dining experience.
• Watch for residents' cues and non-verbal communication to anticipate their needs and provide prompt service.
• Respond promptly to special requests and dietary preferences, accommodating residents' individual needs. Respond to resident questions about the food, if possible, if not, report the question to the Chef on duty.
• Set and clear tables. Ensure cleanliness and organization in the dining area. Check table settings for cleanliness, especially inspecting glass and silverware and remove and/or replace as necessary.
• Pick up all dirty dishes as the resident finishes each course.
• Bus tables at end of meal. Carry soiled dishes, utensils, etc., to wash area; scrape dishes and place in the dish drop off area.
• Re-sets tables in station completely, including wiping down vases, salt and pepper shakers, change tablecloths, wipe chairs and chair legs.
• Assure that condiments and supplies for the next meal are readily available.
• Provide excellent customer service to residents, their families, and guests, creating a friendly and comfortable environment.
• Develop positive relationships with residents, addressing them by name and engaging in conversation to enhance their dining experience.
• Familiarize yourself with the daily menu, including options for special diets and dietary restrictions prior to approaching wait stations.
• Assist residents in making informed choices by providing detailed descriptions of the menu items and making recommendations based on their preferences.
• Work closely and cooperatively with kitchen staff, ensuring accurate communication of orders and any specific dietary requirements.
• Collaborate with other team members to maintain a smooth flow of service and address any issues or concerns promptly.
• Assist other employees in the performance of their assignments when you are available, seeking out opportunities to help.
• Recognize the need for variations in staffing and volunteer to fill open shifts.
• Follow established hygiene and safety protocols, maintaining cleanliness and organization in the dining area.
• Adhere to food handling guidelines and ensure proper sanitation of dishes, utensils, and service areas.
• Follow proper storage practices, including time and date labeling, quality assurance, categorizing storage areas and stock rotation.
• Detect and identify any unpleasant odors in the dining area, such as spoiled food or unsanitary conditions, and promptly address them.
• Clean and sanitize the following: commercial coffee maker, iced tea machine, juice and /or soda dispenser, ice cream freezer, soft serve yogurt, reach-in refrigerators and freezers, bussing carts, conveyor and/or popup toaster, stainless steel, storage and production surfaces.
• Vacuum floors and mats, sweep floor in service area, remove trash as required.
• Complete special assigned cleaning jobs based on periodic schedules.
• Foster a sense of community by engaging with residents, listening to their feedback, and addressing any concerns or special requests.
• Promote social interaction during mealtimes to enhance the residents' overall experience.
• Support the organization and execution of special events and celebrations within the community.
• Assist in setting up and decorating dining areas for these occasions, ensuring a festive and welcoming atmosphere.
• Wear proper and clean company uniform.
• Performs other duties and/or assists in other departments as assigned by Supervisor, Executive Director or Manager on duty.

Equal Opportunity Employer
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