Food Runner/Barback - P&P

Food Runner/Barback

We are seeking an energetic, dependable, and guest-focused Food Runner/Barback to join our Food & Beverage team.

The Food Runner/Barback plays a vital support role in ensuring smooth and efficient restaurant and bar operations by assisting servers, bartenders, and kitchen staff with food delivery, beverage support, stocking, and maintaining cleanliness throughout service areas. This position is responsible for ensuring guests receive timely service while upholding Magnolia Hotel Houston's standards for hospitality, presentation, cleanliness, and teamwork. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced environment, works well under pressure, and is committed to providing exceptional service while supporting the overall success of the Food & Beverage.

Responsibilities

• Deliver food orders from the kitchen to guests quickly, accurately, and according to ticket specifications.
• Ensure food presentation and garnishes meet Hotel standards prior to delivery.
• Communicate clearly with kitchen staff, bartenders, servers, and management to ensure smooth and timely service.
• Assist guests with menu item questions by communicating basic food and beverage knowledge when appropriate.
• Support servers by clearing tables, resetting dining areas, refilling water, and maintaining cleanliness throughout service periods.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of service stations, expo areas, bar areas, coolers, storage rooms, and beverage stations.
• Retrieve and stock liquor, beer, wine, mixers, garnishes, glassware, ice, napkins, and other bar supplies as needed.
• Cut and prepare garnishes, juices, mixers, and beverage preparation items according to Hotel standards.
• Replenish ice bins, transport ice to service stations, and maintain adequate stock levels throughout shifts.
• Assist bartenders with maintaining bar cleanliness and organization during service periods.
• Assist with opening and closing duties, including setup, breakdown, cleaning, stocking, and side work assignments.
• Follow all Hotel food safety, sanitation, and alcohol service standards and procedures.
• Practice safe handling of chemicals, cleaning agents, glassware, and equipment.
• Adhere to Food & Beverage department safety standards and immediately report any unsafe conditions or accidents to management.
• Maintain professional appearance and grooming standards in accordance with Hotel policy.
• Uphold Magnolia Hotel Houston hospitality standards by maintaining a positive, professional, and guest-focused attitude.
• Support team members and assist other Food & Beverage outlets or Hotel departments when operationally necessary.
• Perform other duties as assigned by supervisors or management.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in food running, barbacking, restaurant service, or hospitality preferred.
• Experience in hotel, lounge, restaurant, or high-volume hospitality environments preferred.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize responsibilities during busy service periods.
• Willingness to provide friendly, professional, and guest-focused service throughout the shift.
• Ability to follow Hotel food and beverage policies regarding sanitation, safety, food handling, stocking, and side work.
• Flexible schedule availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical ability to perform the functions of the position.
• Food Handler Certification required or ability to obtain within required timeframe.
• TABC certification preferred or ability to obtain within required timeframe.