J-1 Restaurant Worker / Restaurant Attendant
Position Type: J-1 Summer Work & Travel
Position Summary
This position is not a serving role; advancement to a server position may be considered based on restaurant needs, performance, and qualifications. Restaurant Attendants support the daily operation of the restaurant by assisting both front-of-house and back-of-house teams to provide an exceptional guest experience. This position is ideal for participants seeking to gain experience in the U.S. hospitality industry while working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Deliver outstanding guest service while maintaining a friendly, positive attitude.
- Assist with delivering food and beverages to guests.
- Bus, clean, sanitize, and reset dining tables.
- Stock service stations with silverware, plates, cups, condiments, napkins, and other supplies.
- Roll silverware and prepare dining areas for service.
- Refill condiments and beverage stations as assigned.
- Maintain cleanliness of dining rooms, service areas, patios, and workstations.
- Assist servers, hosts, bartenders, food runners, and kitchen staff as needed.
- Transport food, dishes, ice, and supplies throughout the restaurant.
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department guidelines.
- Properly dispose of trash and recycling and maintain a clean work environment.
- Complete opening, running, and closing side work.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management to support restaurant operations.
Qualifications
- Must be an approved participant in the J-1 Summer Work Travel Program.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Positive attitude with excellent customer service skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Basic English communication skills.
- Reliable attendance and punctuality.
- Ability to follow written and verbal instructions.
Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk for extended periods.
- Frequently bend, stoop, lift, reach, and carry.
- Lift up to 40 pounds.
- Work in varying temperatures, including kitchen and outdoor dining environments.
- Safely use cleaning chemicals and restaurant equipment.
Work Environment
Restaurant Attendants may work in various front-of-house and support areas, including:
- Dining rooms
- Patios or outdoor seating
- Host stand
- Beverage stations
- Service stations
- Kitchen support areas
- Dish area
- Food Trucks
- Storage rooms
Schedules may include mornings, afternoons, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on business needs.
What You'll Gain
- Experience working in an American hospitality environment.
- Opportunity to develop customer service and teamwork skills.
- Exposure to restaurant operations and U.S. workplace culture.
- A welcoming team committed to providing a positive cultural exchange experience.