Food Runner - IAM Hospitality - New York

Food Runner

We are seeking a hardworking, attentive, and service-oriented Food Runner to support both our dining room and open kitchen operations. The Food Runner is an essential member of the service team, responsible for delivering food from the kitchen to the dining room with speed, accuracy, and care while maintaining the presentation and quality established by the Chef. Because Norte features an open kitchen, this position will work closely with the culinary team and may be called upon to assist with finishing plates, garnishing, organizing the pass, and supporting the Chef and kitchen team in multiple capacities. The ideal candidate understands the importance of timing, communication, presentation, and teamwork in a high-volume restaurant environment. This role requires physical stamina, strong attention to detail, the ability to safely carry large food trays and multiple plates, and the ability to remain calm and organized during busy service. The Food Runner must be prepared to move seamlessly between the kitchen and dining room while maintaining Norte's standards of hospitality, food quality, cleanliness, and professionalism. In preparation for our upcoming opening, this position requires participation in a mandatory training program. We offer an inclusive and collaborative work environment, with opportunities for growth within our organization. If you have a passion for hospitality, enjoy working closely with both front and back of house teams, and want to grow with an exciting new restaurant, we would love to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver food from the kitchen to the dining room promptly, accurately, and professionally.
• Ensure all dishes are delivered to the correct table and guest according to the restaurant's service standards.
• Maintain awareness of table numbers, seat positions, food orders, and special guest requests.
• Carry and safely transport large food trays weighing up to 40 lbs.
• Carry and deliver up to three plates at a time while maintaining proper handling and presentation.
• Assist the culinary team with finishing, garnishing, and plating dishes as directed by the Chef.
• Support the Chef and kitchen team in multiple capacities during service as needed.
• Assist with organizing and maintaining the pass and food pickup area.
• Review completed dishes for proper presentation, garnishes, modifications, and overall accuracy before leaving the kitchen.
• Communicate effectively with the Chef, kitchen team, servers, managers, and other members of the service team.
• Ensure food is delivered at the appropriate temperature and with proper presentation.
• Assist servers with maintaining an efficient and organized flow of food during service.
• Anticipate the needs of both the kitchen and dining room teams and proactively provide support to servers and server assistants throughout operations.
• Assist with clearing and resetting service areas as directed by management.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen pass, service areas, and assigned workspaces.
• Assist with restocking plates, trays, service equipment, and other supplies as needed.
• Follow all food handling, sanitation, and safety procedures.
• Maintain awareness of allergens, dietary restrictions, and special preparation instructions.
• Communicate any discrepancies, delays, quality concerns, or guest requests to the appropriate team member immediately.
• Demonstrate urgency while maintaining composure and professionalism during high-volume service.
• Follow all restaurant policies, procedures, and standards of service.
• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned by management or the Chef.

Qualifications

• Previous restaurant, food runner, server assistant, kitchen, or hospitality experience preferred.
• Prior high-volume or fine dining experience a plus.
• Experience working in or around an open kitchen preferred.
• Basic understanding of food presentation and restaurant service standards.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations, including proper food handling, sanitation, and allergy protocols.
• Strong understanding of restaurant etiquette and sequence of service.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food quality and presentation.
• Ability to follow direction and execute tasks accurately in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and respond quickly to changing service needs.
• Ability to work collaboratively with both front and back of house teams.
• Positive attitude and willingness to learn and grow within the organization.
• Availability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to move quickly and safely throughout the restaurant during service.
• Ability to frequently bend, reach, lift, carry, and move throughout the restaurant.
• Ability to safely lift and carry food trays weighing up to 40 lbs.
• Ability to carry up to three plates at a time safely and efficiently.
• Ability to work in close proximity to hot surfaces, kitchen equipment, open flames, and other food-service hazards while following established safety procedures.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment for extended periods of time.

Compensation Details

Compensation: $17.00 per hour, plus tips, Tip Credit Laws applicable. Schedule: Full-time and part-time positions available. Benefits & Perks: Paid Sick Leave, Employee Discounts.

This job description is intended to outline the general nature and responsibilities of the role. Duties and responsibilities may evolve based on business needs, and management reserves the right to modify job duties as necessary. Norte Restaurant is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive work environment.