Assistant Waiter/ess

Crew Life at Sea; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 50,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in cruise ship service is seeking a dedicated and proactive service assistant. You will play a crucial role in providing exceptional service to guests, managing table setups, handling guest orders, and ensuring a high-quality dining experience aboard the ship. A positive attitude and willingness to work flexible hours are essential. Previous experience in hospitality or customer service is a plus, but training will be provided.

Qualifications

• Strong customer service skills with a friendly and positive attitude.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment within a diverse team.
• Knowledge of hygiene and food safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Assist in setting up tables and ensuring cleanliness during food service.
• Provide friendly and attentive service to guests and assist with inquiries.
• Support wait staff during special events and maintain table readiness.

Skills

Customer Service

Teamwork

Attention to Detail

Adaptability

Multilingual Skills

Physical Stamina

Hygiene and Safety Awareness

Education

Prior experience in customer service

Job description

• Table Setup and Maintenance: Assist in setting up tables, ensuring proper arrangement of tableware, glassware, and linens. Maintain table cleanliness and ensure sufficient supplies are available throughout service.
• Beverage and Food Service: Assist wait staff in delivering food and beverages to guests, ensuring accuracy and timely service. Collaborate with the bar staff to refill water glasses and assist with beverage orders as needed.
• Guest Assistance: Provide friendly and attentive service to guests, attending to their needs, inquiries, and special requests promptly and professionally. Anticipate guest preferences and ensure a high level of customer satisfaction.
• Order Processing: Assist with taking guest orders accurately and efficiently, relaying them to the kitchen and bar staff. Ensure guest dietary preferences, allergies, and special requests are communicated appropriately.
• Table Clearing and Reset: Clear tables efficiently, removing used dishes, glassware, and utensils promptly. Reset tables promptly and maintain their cleanliness and readiness for incoming guests.
• Assistance with Special Events: Support the wait staff during special dining events, buffet service, and themed nights. Assist in food and beverage setup, replenishment, and ensuring a smooth flow of service.
• Hygiene and Safety: Comply with strict hygiene and safety standards, including proper handling of glassware, adherence to food safety protocols, and responsible alcohol service.
• Team Collaboration: Work closely with the wait staff, kitchen team, and other departments to ensure smooth service operations and exceptional guest experiences.
• Dining Room Setup: Assist with dining room setup, including table arrangement, decoration, and any required adjustments based on guest reservations and preferences.
• Administrative Support: Assist with administrative tasks such as menu printing, inventory control, and other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications:

• Customer Service: Strong customer service skills with a friendly and positive attitude. Excellent communication skills to interact with guests and team members professionally.
• Teamwork: Exceptional teamwork and collaboration abilities to work effectively with a diverse team in a fast-paced environment.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail to ensure accurate order processing, table setup, and maintaining cleanliness in the dining area.
• Adaptability: Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as per the ship's schedule and operational needs.
• Multilingual Skills: Proficiency in English is required. Additional language skills are advantageous, especially those commonly spoken by cruise ship guests.
• Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift and carry trays, and handle physical demands associated with food and beverage service.
• Hygiene and Safety Awareness: Knowledge and adherence to strict hygiene and safety standards, including food handling, sanitation practices, and responsible alcohol service.
• Previous Experience: Prior experience in a customer service role, preferably in a restaurant, hotel, or cruise ship environment, is beneficial but not mandatory.
• Positive Attitude: A positive and professional demeanor, with a genuine desire to provide excellent service and contribute to guest satisfaction.
• Age Requirements: Must meet the minimum age requirements set by the cruise line for employment.