Waiter and Waitress in Austin, Texas: Join Our High-Energy, Team-Focused Restaurant!

About The Role

Are you a natural host with a passion for creating memorable moments? As a Waiter or Waitress at The Blue Plate Diner, you are the heart of our guest experience. You will master our menu, anticipate needs, and orchestrate seamless service from greeting to farewell. This isn’t just a job; it’s a chance to be part of a celebrated Austin dining institution known for its vibrant atmosphere and commitment to quality. You’ll work in a beautifully modern space with a dedicated back-of-house team that values your front-line contributions.

Your Day-to-Day Responsibilities

• Welcome guests with genuine warmth, manage seating, and present menus expertly.
• Possess an encyclopedic knowledge of our daily specials, ingredient origins, and cocktail menu to guide diners.
• Take accurate food and beverage orders using our streamlined POS system, upsell thoughtfully, and communicate special requests to the kitchen.
• Deliver dishes promptly and correctly, ensuring every plate presentation meets our high standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and inviting station; process payments efficiently and accurately.
• Build rapport with regulars and turn first-time visitors into loyal fans through attentive, personalized service.
• Collaborate closely with bussers, runners, and kitchen staff to ensure smooth operations during peak hours.

What You Bring (Requirements)

We value attitude and aptitude as much as experience. The ideal candidate is:

• Experienced or Eager to Learn: 1+ years of full-service restaurant experience is a plus, but we will train motivated individuals with exceptional customer service instincts.
• A Communication Champion: You possess clear, positive communication skills and the ability to listen actively in a noisy environment.
• Physically Capable: Ability to stand for 8+ hours, carry up to 30 pounds, and navigate a busy floor with agility.
• Team-Oriented: You understand that a great shift is a collective win. You support colleagues and contribute to a positive, fun workplace culture.
• Detail-Oriented & Organized: You can manage multiple tables, remember preferences, and keep your station impeccable without being asked.
• Problem-Solver: When a guest has an issue, you see it as an opportunity to demonstrate excellence and turn the situation around.
• You must be at least 21 years of age and possess or be willing to obtain a Texas Food Handler’s Certification.

Compensation & Earning Potential

We believe in transparent and competitive compensation. Your earnings are a combination of a reliable base wage and the significant potential of tips.

• Base Salary Range: $28,000 – $35,000 USD/year (based on experience and hours)
• Realistic Total Compensation: With tips, our servers typically earn between $45,000 – $65,000+ USD annually. Top performers who excel in upselling and provide outstanding service consistently earn at the higher end of this range.
• We process tips via a secure, weekly direct deposit system.
• We offer flexible scheduling options to support your work-life balance.

Why Join The Blue Plate Diner Team?

We invest in our people because you are our greatest asset. Here’s what sets us apart:

Growth & Development

• Clear pathways for advancement: Many of our managers and sommeliers started as servers.
• Paid training program that covers everything from menu mastery to wine pairing basics.
• Opportunities to cross-train in hosting, bartending, or management support.

Exceptional Benefits Package

• Health & Wellness: After 90 days, full-time employees (30+ hours/week) are eligible for medical, dental, and vision insurance with a substantial company contribution.
• Paid Time Off: Earn paid vacation and sick leave from your first day.
• Team Member Meals: Enjoy a complimentary, chef-prepared meal during your shift.
• 401(k) with Company Match: Plan for your future with our retirement savings plan.
• Employee Discounts: 25% off all food and beverage when you’re dining with friends or family.
• Consistent, Predictable Scheduling: We provide schedules two weeks in advance to help you plan your life.

The Culture

We are a family. We celebrate wins, support each other during rushes, and believe a happy team creates happy guests. We host quarterly team events, recognize “Server of the Month,” and maintain an open-door policy with management. You will work in a clean, safe, and well-equipped environment where your voice is heard.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you are ready to bring your energy, skill, and passion to one of Austin’s most beloved restaurants, we want to hear from you. Please submit your resume and a brief cover letter telling us why you would be an amazing addition to our service team to our hiring manager at careers@blueplatedineraustin.com. No phone calls, please.

We are an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.