Rugby Grille Barback/Food Runner

JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: Rugby Grille Barback / Food Runner
REPORTS TO: Restaurant Manager, Beverage Manager, Assistant F&B Director, F&B Director

The Barback / Food Runner is responsible for supporting both the dining room and bar operations by ensuring timely food delivery, maintaining bar stock and cleanliness, and assisting service staff to create an exceptional guest experience. This position plays a critical role in communication between the Front of House and Back of House teams and requires strong attention to detail, urgency, and teamwork. Availability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays is required.

Food Running Responsibilities

Deliver food from the kitchen to guests promptly and accurately.

Identify and deliver dishes to the correct seat numbers using pivot point service standards.

Communicate clearly with chefs, servers, bartenders, and managers throughout service.

Verify all dishes for accuracy, presentation, temperature, and proper accompaniments before leaving the kitchen.

Assist in final plate presentation and garnish setup when directed by culinary leadership.

Maintain cleanliness and organization of expo and service stations throughout service.

Support servers with guest requests and table maintenance when needed.

Ensure all food is delivered with professionalism, urgency, and proper menu knowledge.

Barback Responsibilities

Maintain stock levels of beer, wine, liquor, glassware, garnishes, ice, and bar supplies throughout service.

Refill juices, syrups, mixers, and garnishes as needed.

Assist bartenders with setup and breakdown of bar operations.

Change kegs and restock liquor and wine bottles during service.

Maintain cleanliness and organization behind the bar, including coolers, storage areas, sinks, and floors.

Remove trash, cardboard, and empty bottles throughout the shift.

Support bartenders during high-volume periods to ensure efficient guest service.

General Responsibilities

Maintain a clean, organized, and safe working environment.

Follow all food safety, sanitation, and alcohol service standards.

Assist with side work and opening/closing duties as assigned.

Work collaboratively with all team members to ensure exceptional hospitality standards are met.

Respond positively to direction and demonstrate professionalism at all times.

Working Conditions / Physical Demands

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.

Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly.

Ability to carry loaded trays safely through crowded dining areas.

Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, lifting, and repetitive motions required.

Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

Previous restaurant, food runner, barback, or hospitality experience preferred.

Strong communication and teamwork skills required.

Must possess a sense of urgency and attention to detail.

Knowledge of proper dining room etiquette and seat numbering systems preferred.

Ability to communicate effectively in English.

This Job Description is intended to provide a general overview of the responsibilities and requirements of this position. Responsibilities may change based on operational needs and management discretion.

BENEFITS

Success Coach every Thursday

Fifty percent off your restaurant bill for up to six guests

401 (k)

Discounted Bus Passes

Free meals during shift

PTO Program

& so much more!

The Townsend Hotel provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and business need.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment.

If you are interested in applying for employment with The Townsend Hotel and need assistance to apply for a posted position, please send an email to [email protected] or you may call us at 248-647-8640.