Senior Server
Job Description
Dexter Hotel is hiring a Senior Server for Noble Lounge in Elk Rapids, MI (onsite).
Key Responsibilities
- Deliver knowledgeable, gracious, efficient service throughout the guest experience
- Build genuine connections with hotel guests, local guests, and returning regulars
- Maintain strong knowledge of all menu offerings, including food, cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic options
- Guide guests through the menu with thoughtful recommendations
- Anticipate guest needs and address them before they are asked
- Stay attentive to dietary restrictions, allergies, and special requests; communicate appropriately
- Handle guest concerns professionally and involve leadership when additional recovery is needed
- Support a polished, elevated dining atmosphere without being overly formal
- Serve as a consistent example of Dexter Hotel and Noble Lounge service standards
- Help set pace, organization, and communication for the floor during service
- Support opening and closing procedures; ensure duties are completed thoroughly
- Assist with pre-shift preparation to ensure team and space are ready for service
- Support and coach servers, bartenders, support staff, and newer team members
- Identify service issues early and help resolve them proactively
- Communicate clearly with bar and culinary teams to maintain smooth service
- Support leadership with sections, side work, service flow, and other operational needs when requested
- Step in to help with other responsibilities as needed to protect the guest experience
- Maintain exceptional cleanliness and organization in lounge, dining areas, service stations, and guest-facing spaces
- Ensure tables, glassware, silverware, menus, and service areas meet presentation standards
- Follow all cash handling, POS, payment, tip, and closing procedures
- Maintain accurate checks and ensure all items are properly entered and accounted for
- Follow all food safety, sanitation, and responsible alcohol service requirements
- Reinforce service and hospitality standards respectfully when something is missed
- Promptly communicate maintenance, cleanliness, inventory, or operational concerns to leadership
- Take ownership of the space and tasks instead of waiting to be assigned
- Understand the broader property and assist with basic hotel information, local recommendations, programming, and general questions
- Reinforce the level of hospitality associated with Dexter Hotel in every interaction
Requirements
- Previous serving experience in an upscale, high-volume, boutique, or hospitality-driven environment
- Strong working knowledge of food, cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Confidence leading by example without requiring a formal management title
- Strong attention to detail and an instinct for anticipating guest needs
- Ability to stay composed, organized, and positive during busy service
- Collaborative approach and willingness to support any area of the operation
- Good judgment when handling guest concerns
- Reliability, professionalism, and strong attendance
- Genuine enthusiasm for hospitality and creating memorable experiences
- Availability for evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events based on business needs
- Ability to stand and move throughout the duration of a shift
- Ability to safely carry trays, glassware, plates, and service equipment
- Ability to lift and carry approximately 30–40 pounds as needed
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced hospitality environment
Technologies
- POS
Pay
- $16.00 - $18.00 per hour
Compensation
- $18.00/hour base + tips
- Estimated total earnings: $25–$30/hour
Benefits
- Dental insurance
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
Senior-Level Expectations
- Operate with greater ownership than a standard serving position
- Notice when something needs attention and address it
- Help teammates before being asked
- Recognize when the guest experience is slipping and take action
- Know the standards well enough to help others execute them
- Share responsibility for the success of the entire room, not only assigned tables
Service Philosophy
- Hospitality should feel natural, thoughtful, and personal
- Guests should feel recognized rather than processed
- Details, cleanliness, and communication matter
- Every interaction should reflect the way guests feel
- The Senior Server brings the philosophy to life by setting the standard for the team and creating a return-worthy experience