Lead Server

The Lead Server plays a key leadership role in creating an exceptional guest experience and supporting smooth front-of-house operations. This position serves as a shift leader on the floor, helping guide the Server team, uphold service standards, support team member development, and partner closely with management to ensure each shift runs efficiently and professionally. This role is ideal for a strong Server who enjoys leading by example, coaching others, solving problems in real time, and contributing to a positive, guest-focused restaurant environment. Essential Functions Lead by example by consistently demonstrating excellent service, professionalism, teamwork, and a positive attitude. Support the General Manager and Assistant General Manager by helping lead front-of-house operations during assigned shifts. Coach, encourage, and develop Front of House team members to support service excellence and team growth. Assist with floor deployment, section coverage, breaks, shift transitions, and overall team communication. Monitor guest experience throughout the shift and assist with service recovery when concerns arise. Ensure opening, side work, running side work, and closing responsibilities are completed accurately and on time. Maintain cleanliness, organization, safety, and operational standards throughout the dining room, service stations, and guest areas. Communicate effectively with kitchen team members, servers, hosts, bussers, and management to support timely and accurate service. Support training, accountability, and follow-up with Front of House team members in a professional and constructive manner. Help reinforce company standards, steps of service, cash-handling procedures, food safety expectations, and alcohol service requirements where applicable. Maintain flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Compensation is $23.00 per hour, which is $8.25 above the applicable tip credit minimum wage. Eligible to participate in the standard Server tip pool and tip out program. May receive priority consideration for section assignments, subject to General Manager approval, business needs, guest flow, and overall shift coverage. Opportunity to build leadership experience and receive priority consideration for future growth opportunities within restaurant operations. Position provides hands-on leadership experience for team members interested in developing into future supervisory or management roles. Qualifications Previous serving experience required. Previous restaurant leadership, trainer, shift lead, or supervisory experience preferred. Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills. Ability to coach team members professionally and constructively. Ability to remain calm, focused, and guest-centered in a fast-paced environment. Strong knowledge of service standards, guest hospitality, and front-of-house operations. Ability to work collaboratively with team members, kitchen staff, and management. Food handler and/or alcohol service permit required where applicable by local law. Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and lift to 50 pounds as needed. FLSA & Overtime Statement Non-exempt (overtime-eligible). Employees in this role must accurately record all hours worked and will be paid overtime in accordance with federal and applicable state law. Physical Requirements & Work Environment This role may require standing/walking for extended periods, repetitive motions, lifting/carrying up to 50 lbs (role dependent), exposure to heat/steam/noise in restaurant/kitchen environments, and use of standard office or kitchen equipment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Kizuki International LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Disclaimer This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice. #J-18808-Ljbffr