SERVICE CAPTAIN

Location:Watamu
Job description:

We're hiring a Service Captain. The Service Captain is responsible for leading floor operations during service, ensuring an exceptional fine-dining guest experience at all times. This role oversees service execution, maintains the highest hospitality standards, and ensures seamless coordination between the service team, bar, and kitchen. It is a hands-on leadership position requiring strong supervision, attention to detail, and real-time problem-solving.


Key Responsibilities

Service Leadership

  • Lead and manage the restaurant floor during service, ensuring flawless execution of the sequence of service

  • Assign stations, sections, and duties to service staff before each shift

  • Act as the primary communication link between the kitchen, bar, and service teams

  • Anticipate service challenges and resolve issues proactively to ensure smooth operations

Guest Experience

  • Welcome and engage guests professionally, with special attention to VIPs and repeat customers

  • Ensure accurate and confident menu knowledge is consistently delivered by the service team

  • Handle guest feedback and complaints discreetly, promptly, and professionally

  • Monitor table pacing, guest satisfaction, and overall dining flow

Standards & Presentation

  • Enforce grooming, uniform, and presentation standards consistently

  • Conduct pre-service briefings covering menu details, specials, allergens, and service priorities

  • Ensure opening and closing procedures are completed accurately and approved

Training & Team Development

  • Train service staff on fine-dining etiquette, service standards, wine service, and upselling techniques

  • Mentor junior team members and new hires to uphold service excellence

  • Provide continuous feedback and on-the-job coaching to support performance improvement

Operational Control

  • Ensure accurate order taking, POS entries, and billing processes

  • Monitor voids, discounts, and complimentary items in line with internal policies

  • Maintain oversight of service stock, including glassware, linen, crockery, and cutlery

  • Support management with service reports and operational insights


Required Skills & Experience

  • 3–5 years’ experience in a fine-dining or high-end restaurant environment

  • Proven ability to lead service teams during high-pressure service periods

  • Strong knowledge of fine-dining standards and service sequences

  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English

  • High levels of professionalism, composure, and attention to detail

  • Competence in using POS systems


Personal Attributes

  • Calm and composed under pressure

  • Highly organised and disciplined

  • Strong guest-focused mindset

  • Confident leadership presence on the floor

  • High integrity and accountability


Working Conditions

  • Shift-based role, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays

  • Physically demanding role requiring prolonged standing and active floor engagement

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