What does a Food Runner do?
A Food Runner performs many tasks, but their main role is to ensure that restaurant guests receive the right order on time. Just like Servers and Chefs, this position is integral in ensuring a smooth and efficient operation between back-of-house and front-of-house areas. Seamless operations between these two lead to high-quality service, which keeps customers happy.
Food Runner skills and qualifications
The nature of their job requires Food Runners to have a variety of skills. Besides a friendly personality, successful Food Runners also need to have some of the following skills and qualifications:
- Clear understanding of hygiene and food safety regulations
- Superb communication and interpersonal skills, especially in verbal interactions
- Exceptional multitasking skills and attention to detail
- Accurate memory to remember small details to relay the right message and respond accordingly
- Ability to stay calm when handling difficult clients and stressful situations
Food Runner experience requirements
Food Runners don’t need any previous work experience. However, candidates need to demonstrate they can thrive in fast-paced, high-pressure environments. Food Runners need to work well as part of a team and on individual tasks, and must pay attention to detail to ensure every dish looks its best when it’s served. Look for candidates with experience working in teams at school, extracurricular activities, or in volunteer positions.
Food Runner education and training requirements
Since a Food Runner is an entry-level position, no advanced education is necessary. On-the-job training provides Food Runners with everything they need to know about the restaurant’s dishes and service expectations. Look for candidates with a high school diploma or GED, or you can employ high school students on a part-time basis or over the summer. Candidates need to provide their Food Handler certification, recognized across Canada.
For restaurants that serve alcohol, Food Runners with an alcohol service certification are an asset as they also run drinks and clear tables for guests. This certification is specific to every province and territory. For example, employees in Ontario need a Smart Serve certificate, in Alberta it’s ProServe, and in British Columbia it’s called Serving It Right. If a candidate has their Alberta ProServe but is applying to a job in Ontario, they’ll have to complete the Smart Serve certification before they can legally serve alcohol.
Food Runner salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average wage for a Food Runner in Canada is $14.28 per hour. This amount may vary depending on the company’s location and size, and the candidate’s previous experience and education.
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