Server resume

Updated on . How we write our guides.

Key skills for a server resume

Terms that job ads ask for and ATS filters look for. Only include the ones you master.

  • Table service
  • Menu knowledge
  • Upselling
  • POS systems
  • Wine and beverage service
  • Order taking
  • Food safety
  • Responsible alcohol service
  • Guest relations
  • Teamwork

Tips for your server resume

  1. Say what kind of restaurant you worked in: casual, fine dining, hotel, banquets or bar.
  2. Add your volume: tables or covers per shift.
  3. Mention menu and wine knowledge and how you upsell.
  4. Name the POS systems you use, such as Toast or Square.
  5. Include food safety and alcohol service training if you have it.
  6. List the languages you speak and your availability.

Server resume summary examples

Adapt these examples with your real details: years of experience, industry, tools and certifications.

Experienced

Server with 6 years of experience in casual and fine dining restaurants. I handle sections of up to 8 tables, pair wines with the menu and consistently lead the team in upselling desserts and drinks. Trained in responsible alcohol service and food safety, and fluent in English and Spanish.

Entry-level

Friendly and fast learner with cashier experience at a coffee shop, used to handling payments and busy rushes. Available evenings and weekends. Looking for my first server job.

Other job titles

Search for them too and use the one in the job ad on your resume.

  • Waiter
  • Waitress
  • Food server
  • Banquet server
  • Waiting staff (UK)
  • Host

How to write a server resume step by step

  1. Write a short summary

    Three or four lines with your experience, type of restaurant and strengths.

  2. Detail your experience

    In “Experience”, add the restaurant, type of service, volume and tasks.

  3. Add certifications and training

    In “Certificates”, list food safety and alcohol service training.

  4. Add languages

    In “Languages”, list your level in each language: it helps in tourist areas.

  5. Tailor your resume to the job ad and download it

    Paste the job ad into Beatjob: the AI improves the wording with the keywords your experience backs up. Then download the PDF.

More resume examples

Frequently asked questions about a server resume

Do servers need any training or certification?

No formal education is usually required. Some states require training in safe food handling, and some states, counties and cities require training for serving alcohol.

Is there a minimum age to serve alcohol?

Most states require workers who serve alcohol to be at least 18 years old, and some states set a higher age.

What should an entry-level server resume include?

Any customer service or cash handling work, your availability and any food safety or alcohol training.

Sources

Build your server resume

Turn on the sections in this guide, paste a real job ad and tailor your resume with AI without making anything up. It's free.

Sign up for free
Server resume: examples and tips | Beatjob