Lead Waiter - Fine Dining & Guest Experience

Crew Life at Sea Ltd.; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Crew Life at Sea Ltd. is seeking a Senior Waiter to deliver exceptional dining experiences aboard cruise ships. You will lead a team, mentor junior staff, and ensure high standards of service and guest satisfaction across multiple venues.

The role requires fluency in English and welcomes additional languages; flexibility to work on different ships and during evenings, weekends, and holidays is essential. Knowledge of wine service, menu presentation, and safety protocols is highly valued.

Qualifications

• Experience as Senior Waiter or similar in fine dining, upscale hotel, or cruise environment.
• In-depth knowledge of food and beverage service, including etiquette, wine service, cocktails and menu presentation.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills to mentor junior staff and maintain a positive work environment.
• Excellent customer service with problem-solving abilities and guest-focused mindset.
• Fluency in English is required; additional languages are desirable for cruise guests.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, and to operate on different ships.
• Good organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple tasks in a fast-paced setting.
• Understanding of hygiene and safety standards and responsible alcohol service.
• Relevant certifications in food safety or hospitality are advantageous.
• Positive, professional demeanor and passion for hospitality and guest satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Provide exceptional table service to guests with attention to detail.
• Assist and advise guests on menu choices, allergies, and dietary requirements.
• Assist Head Waiter in supervising and coordinating the wait staff; train and mentor staff.
• Take orders accurately and relay to kitchen/bar; coordinate course timing.
• Upsell specials, signature dishes, and beverage pairings to boost revenue.
• Establish rapport with guests and handle inquiries, concerns, and requests professionally.
• Uphold service standards and maintain professionalism in a welcoming dining environment.
• Adhere to hygiene, safety, and responsible alcohol service standards.
• Share knowledge with junior staff through training and coaching.
• Collaborate with kitchen, bar, and management for smooth operations.
• Assist with administrative tasks such as shift reports, inventory, and supplies.

Skills

Customer service

Leadership

Communication

Multilingual

Job description

Crew Life at Sea Ltd. is seeking a Senior Waiter to deliver exceptional dining experiences aboard cruise ships. You will lead a team, mentor junior staff, and ensure high standards of service and guest satisfaction across multiple venues.

The role requires fluency in English and welcomes additional languages; flexibility to work on different ships and during evenings, weekends, and holidays is essential. Knowledge of wine service, menu presentation, and safety protocols is highly valued.