Food and Beverage Server

Job Title: Food & Beverage Server

Department: Food & Beverage

Reports To: Food Service Manager

FLSA Status:   Non-exempt

Effective Date:  July 1, 2023

White Oak conserves and sustains some of the earth's rarest wild animals through innovative training, research, education, and conservation breeding programs that contribute to the survival of wildlife in nature.  The conservation programs span 600 acres along the St. Mary’s River in northeast Florida, surrounded by 17,000 acres of mixed forest and wetlands that make up the beautiful White Oak property.  Founded in 1982, White Oak leads professional efforts to improve veterinary care, develop holistic animal management techniques, and better understand the biology of critically endangered species by providing excellent care and managing conservation programs for over 30 species of imperiled wildlife in large, naturalistic habitats.      

Position Purpose

To perform all duties associated with food and beverage service and guest relations as it pertains to lodges, guest houses and unique events. The food and beverage server are responsible for creating an exceptional and memorable guest experience all while informing our guests of our conservation mission.

Responsibilities and Tasks

The essential duties and responsibilities of this position include the following. Other duties may be assigned.

·       Ensure guests receive the finest quality food and beverage service while providing a positive, professional attitude and appearance. 

·       Maintain cleanliness and product quality standards of guest lodges and cottages, public spaces, restrooms and banquet/meeting/conference rooms for food and beverage service.

·       In coordination with the supervisor, chef, and other team members, perform the necessary duties executing all food and beverage services in a professional manner in accordance with standard procedures.

·       Daily responsibilities as a food and beverage server to include, but not limited to, executing breakfasts, coffee breaks, luncheons, dinners, cocktail receptions, galas, meal drop offs etc.

·       Participate in the prep, set-up of function rooms for all meals, events, and services to include, but not limited to, the placement of linens, silverware, glassware, and chinaware etc. according to the event specifications.

·       Accurate knowledge of food and beverage menu options and availability. 

·       Know the necessary contacts, radio numbers and phone numbers to assist and familiarize guests with the facility and our mission. 

·       Stock and Un-stock cottages with all required food and beverage items. 

·       Check guest daily/overnight information and plan accordingly.

·       Assist in the drop off, pick up and laundering our linens.

·       Create plant and floral arrangements for daily meal service, events and enhance the atmosphere of the cottages. 

·       Assist Guest Relations by greeting guests, bartending, and attending the Gilman Hall bar area.

·       Communicate function specifications, procedures and changes with affected departments including, but not limited to, Café Staff, Guest Relations, Operations, Maintenance and Housekeeping.

·       Participate in the breakdown of the function room and ensure proper storage of service items.

·       Assist other departments on property during off peak times.

·       Practice proper food handling methods, safety procedures and ensure all designated service work areas are kept clean and up to standard.

Minimum Qualification Requirements

High School Diploma or equivalent required; associate or bachelor’s degree preferred.

Three years of experience in the food service, hospitality, or related industry.

Knowledge of food service practice and procedures preferred.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.

Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions.

Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

Ability to work extended hours, weekends, and holidays.

Valid Driver’s license required.

Must pass pre-employment drug test and may be asked to complete background check.

Physical Demands and Working Conditions

Physical Demands:

Standing and walking for extended periods of time.

Occasional bending, kneeling, or crouching.

Reaching overhead, above the shoulders and horizontally.

Lifting, carrying, pushing, and pulling object(s) weighing up to fifty pounds.

Environment:

Indoor/Outdoor environment subject to changing conditions and temperatures exceeding 90 degrees at times.

Changing priorities and interruptions.

White Oak Conservation is committed to creating an environment where diverse perspectives are welcome, and to nurturing a culture where everyone feels valued and appreciated. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, color, age, national origin, religion, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, citizenship, pregnancy or maternity, veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable national, federal, state, or local law.