Busser Job Description: Skills and Qualifications

Bussers are often referred to as runners or food runners. No matter the title, their main tasks are the same: keeping the dining area spotless, helping servers, and making sure everything runs smoothly. In this post, we’ll break down the busser job description, explore what they do, and answer common questions about this key role.

What is a Busser?

A busser is responsible for maintaining a clean and organized dining area. Often working in fast-paced environments, they support servers by clearing tables, resetting them for the next customers, and helping with small tasks to keep service moving quickly.

What Does a Busser Do?

Bussers are responsible for ensuring everything is clean and ready for the next guest. While their tasks may seem simple, they play a huge role in keeping the dining experience enjoyable. Here’s a breakdown of their key responsibilities:

• Clear and reset tables between customers.
• Refill water glasses and replenish table supplies.
• Assist servers by bringing food to tables.
• Remove used dishes, utensils, and trash.
• Replace cutlery, glassware, and table settings for new diners.
• Ensure floors and dining areas are clean and tidy.
• Help with kitchen prep or dishwashing when needed.
• Keep an eye on table needs and assist wherever possible

Busser Job Description

We created the following template to help you easily outline the ideal busser role for your restaurant.

Busser Job Responsabilities

When hiring a busser, it’s important to clearly outline their responsibilities. Below are the key tasks you can include in your job posting to attract the right candidates.

• Clear used plates, glasses, and cutlery from tables after customers have finished.
• Wipe down tables, ensuring they are clean and ready for the next guests.
• Replace table settings, including fresh napkins, utensils, and glassware.
• Refill water glasses and keep table condiments like salt and pepper stocked.
• Assist servers by delivering food to tables or helping with any urgent tasks.
• Ensure the dining area, including floors, is clean and free of debris.
• Maintain cleanliness of the dining area at the end of the shift.

Busser Skills and Qualifications

If you’re looking for a busser job, it’s important to highlight relevant skills on your resume. Here are some qualifications to consider:

• Attention to Detail: Keep tables clean and organized.
• Physical Stamina: Stand, walk, and lift throughout shifts.
• Team Player: Collaborate well with staff.
• Time Management: Handle multiple tasks efficiently.
• Customer Service: Maintain a friendly and helpful attitude.
• Multitasking: Juggle various tasks.

Busser Job Description Template

We’ve gathered some examples of effective busser job descriptions from Job Today to help you create your own. These examples can serve as a guide to ensure you include all the essential details when posting your job. But first, we have created template you can copy, paste and customize for your restaurant.

Job Title: Busser
Location: [Your Restaurant Name] – [City, State]
Job Type: [Full-Time/Part-Time]

Job Description

We are looking for a dedicated busser to join our team. Your primary responsibilities will include maintaining cleanliness in the dining area, assisting servers, and ensuring a smooth dining experience for our guests.

Responsibilities

• Clear and reset tables
• Refill drinks and condiments
• Wipe down tables and maintain cleanliness
• Assist servers with food delivery

Qualifications

• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication skills

Real Examples of Busser Job Descriptions

We have gathered some examples of job descriptions posted on Job Today. Take a look!

Example 1

Busser job description at Mingles Ultra Lounge, in the Bronx, New York City.

Salary: $10.65 – $13.65 per hour

Job Summary:

• Clear and reset tables, ensuring cleanliness and organization
• Assist servers with delivering food and beverages to guests
• Maintain a clean and stocked dining area, including refilling condiments and utensils
• Support servers with tasks such as refilling drinks and removing plates
• Work efficiently to ensure seamless service during peak periods

Key Responsibilities:

• Clear tables, removing dirty dishes, glasses, and utensils
• Wipe down tables and chairs, sanitizing surfaces
• Reset tables with clean linens, utensils, and glassware
• Assist servers with food delivery, refilling drinks, and removing plates
• Maintain a clean and organized dining area, including sweeping and mopping floors
• Restock supplies, such as utensils, condiments, and paper products
• Collaborate with servers to ensure excellent guest service
• Perform additional tasks as needed to support the restaurant team

Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and stand for long periods
• Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Availability to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends

Example 2

Busser job description at Mr. Broadway, in New York City.

Salary: From $10.00 per hour

Position Overview:

We are seeking a dynamic and hardworking Food Runner/Busser to join our team. This role is essential to ensuring smooth and efficient service in our dining room, assisting both front-of-house staff and customers. The ideal candidate will be fast-paced, detail-oriented, and passionate about providing outstanding customer service in a busy restaurant environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Assist servers by delivering food to tables accurately and efficiently.
• Clear and reset tables quickly while maintaining cleanliness and organization in the dining room.
• Support the waitstaff and kitchen staff to ensure timely food service.
• Maintain cleanliness of dining areas, including floor, tables, and chairs.
• Refill water glasses, restock silverware, napkins, and other dining essentials.
• Communicate effectively with both front and back of the house to ensure guest satisfaction.
• Follow all safety and sanitation policies to maintain a clean and safe working environment.
• Requirements:

Requirements:

• Previous experience in a restaurant setting is a plus but not required.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while staying organized.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
  Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Positive attitude and a passion for customer service.

Benefits:

• Competitive pay.
• Opportunities for growth and advancement within the company.
• A supportive and collaborative team environment.
• Employee meals and discounts.

If you are a team player who enjoys working in a high-energy environment, we encourage you to apply!

Busser Salary

According to data extracted from the Job Today hiring platform in 2024, the busser salary varies from $10 to $14 per hour.

Some of the jobs available are part-time, which would correspond to approximately $866 to $1,212 monthly. For full-time positions, the monthly salary ranges from about $1,732 to $2,425.

How to be a Good Busser?

Being a good busser requires a combination of skills and the right attitude. You don’t necessarily need previous experience to get a busser job, but having certain qualities can make you stand out. Here are some nice-to-have attributes to help you succeed in this role:

• Positive Attitude: A friendly demeanor goes a long way in customer service.
• Strong Work Ethic: Be ready to put in the effort and work as a team.
• Adaptability: Be flexible and willing to handle various tasks as needed.
• Good Communication: Ability to communicate effectively with servers and kitchen staff.
• Time Management: Keep track of tasks and prioritize effectively during busy times.

Do I Need Any License or Training to Be a Busser?

In New York, for example, you typically do not need a formal license to work as a busser. However, having a food handler certificate is a valuable asset. This certification demonstrates that you understand food safety practices, which can be beneficial in a restaurant environment. While not always mandatory for bussers, some employers may prefer or require it.

To obtain a food handler certificate, you can complete a short online training course, followed by a test. It’s a simple way to enhance your qualifications and show your commitment to maintaining a safe dining environment.

If you’re ready to start your journey as a busser or need to find talented bussers for your restaurant, Job Today is here to help! Our platform makes it easy to connect job seekers with employers in the New York restaurant scene. Apply for jobs or post your listings on Job Today and take the first step toward a successful career in the hospitality industry!