Restaurant Crew Member - Frequently Asked Questions

A crew member works in a restaurant or similar establishment and helps with a variety of tasks in the kitchen or on the floor. They may work in the kitchen helping with food preparation, or at the counter taking orders, answering customer questions, seating or serving customers, and operating the cash register.

Crew members may also help with cleaning the workstations and keeping the tables and floor area clean, setting tables, and even assisting in training new crew members.

They are often responsible for a variety of customer service interactions such as greeting and seating, taking orders, delivering food, and even chasing them out. You’ll often work alongside servers, bartenders, and management to ensure these tasks are completed.

Typically restaurant crew member positions only require a high school diploma or GED. Rather than formal education, many restaurants prefer someone who showcases the skills and qualities a crew member needs to be successful. 

Many restaurants also prefer to hire employees with some experience, often at least one year, so you can earn relevant experience by applying for and working part-time positions in the foodservice or restaurant industry. You may also find volunteer opportunities within the hospitality or foodservice industry. 

Once your resume is prepared, and you’ve earned the required level of education and experience, apply for crew member positions in your area that you may be qualified for. 

Requirements for a restaurant crew member role can vary by company, but many require the same basic things like:

• High school diploma or GED

• Must pass a background check and drug test

• Experience in the food or restaurant industry preferred

• Available during evenings and on weekends

• Commitment to excellent customer service

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

• Friendly, positive attitude, trustworthy and reliable

The job description should clearly outline requirements, but if you have questions, ask the hiring manager. 

Crew members are usually part-time roles, but you may have an opportunity to work full-time. The pay rate is typically hourly, and the range can depend on the restaurant, location, and your experience. 

A common hourly rate for restaurant crew is between $10.50 and $11.75 per hour, though it could range from $8.25 to $22.50 or more hourly. 

Interview questions vary, but you can expect a mix of general questions, ones about your background and experience, and in-depth or job-specific queries.

Knowing what types of questions may be asked, and preparing answers ahead of time, can help you succeed in your interview:

• What is your experience working in the restaurant industry?

• Describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer. How did you deal with the situation?

• What stands out to you when you go out to eat at a restaurant?

• What does exceptional customer service mean to you?

• Describe a time when you felt overwhelmed during a rush. What did you do?

• Describe a time when you made a mistake at work. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from it?

• What do you think are the best qualities/skills for a restaurant crew member to have?

There are several qualities and skills a good restaurant crew member will have to be successful in their role. Some of the best qualities or traits include:

• Hard-working

• Punctual

• Positive attitude

• Knowledgeable

• Customer-focused

• Adaptable

• Reliable

• Responsible

• Accurate

• Flexible

• Physical stamina 

• Creative 

A restaurant crew member’s skills should focus on customer service, communication skills, and teamwork. These can include:

• Team-oriented 

• Verbal communication skills

• Interpersonal communication skills

• Customer service

• Organized

• Problem-solving skills

• Multi-tasking skills 

• Knowledge of food safety and protocols

• Strong service ethic

• Serving skills

• Attention to detail

Once you gain experience as a restaurant crew member, you may move into a serving or kitchen staff position, including the head cook. If you demonstrate dedication to and skill at your job, there are also opportunities to move into a shift leader, shift manager, or general manager position. 

Restaurants are a great place for crew members to learn, improve their skills, and grow within a company. Many restaurants prefer to promote from within, so you may find great opportunities for career advancement over time. 

Crew member hours can vary based on where they work. Mornings, days, evening, night, and weekend hours are common, including holidays.

Most shifts are organized around the most popular dining times - breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Typically, a crew member will work the same shifts a server, bartender, or kitchen staff member would.

Similar to other restaurant positions, crew members will likely be under pressure to serve quickly, care for customers efficiently, and operate effectively during busy hours. You’re typically on your feet most of the shift, and often carry heavy trays of food, dishes, and drinks, while also cleaning and setting tables, so stamina is important.

Working as a crew member can be fast-paced and even sometimes stressful, but it can also be very rewarding. You can connect with customers, help your team members, and ensure a positive experience for those who dine with you.