ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Buffet Server Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Sonic

Carhop or Skating Carhop

San Diego, CA · On-site

Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in restaurant instead of space, and the food's way better. You're responsible for serving and ...

Sonic Drive-In

Carhop or Skating Carhop

Santee, CA · On-site

$20 - $24/hr

Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in restaurant instead of space, and the food's way better. You're responsible for serving and ...

Sonic

Carhop or Skating Carhop

Madera, CA

Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in restaurant instead of space, and the food's way better. You're responsible for serving and ...

Sonic

Carhop or Skating Carhop

Vista, CA · On-site

Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in restaurant instead of space, and the food's way better. You're responsible for serving and ...

Sonic

Carhop or Skating Carhop

Tracy, CA

Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in restaurant instead of space, and the food's way better. You're responsible for serving and ...

Sonic

Carhop or Skating Carhop

San Diego, CA

Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in restaurant instead of space, and the food's way better. You're responsible for serving and ...

Sonic

Carhop or Skating Carhop

Santee, CA · On-site

Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in restaurant instead of space, and the food's way better. You're responsible for serving and ...

Lunch With Tony LLC

On-Call Event Servers

San Jose, CA

$25/hr

As an Event Server/ Attendant, you will be primarily responsible for setting up and serving meals ... Garnish and decorate dishes, as well as, buffet before serving * Observe diners to respond to any ...

Career Search

Server - Peppoli (Part Time)

Pebble Beach, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

The Server provides prompt, courteous service of all beverages and food for guests. Interact with ... Greet guests, introduce menu or buffet layout and describe special items. * Offer beverages after ...

LaborMax - Fresno, CA

Be Seen First

Banquet Server/Pantry/Server

Fresno, CA · On-site

$16.90/hr

Banquet Server responsibilities are setting up, serving, and cleaning up food and beverages at events, ensuring high-quality guest service, and managing room, table, or buffet preparations. * Event ...

previous pagenext page

Showing results 21-40

All JobsBuffet Server JobsBuffet Server Jobs in California

Buffet Server information

See California salary details

$5

$11

$24

How much do buffet server jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for buffet server in California is $11.46, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.04 and $13.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a buffet server?

Buffet servers are hospitality professionals responsible for maintaining and replenishing food at buffet stations, assisting guests with their selections, and ensuring the buffet area is clean and organized. They may also help with setting up and breaking down the buffet, monitoring food temperatures, and following food safety guidelines. Buffet servers play a key role in providing a positive dining experience by being attentive, courteous, and knowledgeable about the menu offerings.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a buffet server?

To thrive as a Buffet Server, you need strong customer service skills, basic food handling knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and food safety certifications such as a Food Handler’s Card are typically required. Excellent communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment are standout soft skills. These abilities ensure guests have a positive dining experience while maintaining safety and operational efficiency.

What are some common challenges buffet servers face during busy meal periods, and how can they manage them effectively?

Buffet servers often encounter challenges such as maintaining food presentation, restocking items quickly, and ensuring cleanliness during peak times. Managing these demands requires strong organizational skills, teamwork, and the ability to prioritize tasks efficiently. Communicating clearly with kitchen staff and other servers helps keep the buffet running smoothly, while staying attentive to guest needs ensures a positive dining experience. Time management and multitasking are key to handling the fast-paced environment successfully.

What is the difference between Buffet Server vs Waitstaff?

AspectBuffet ServerWaitstaff
ResponsibilitiesServing food at buffet stations, assisting guests with selections, maintaining buffet presentationTaking orders, serving food and drinks at tables, providing customer service
Work EnvironmentSelf-serve buffet areas, casual dining settingsTable service in restaurants, cafes, or fine dining
CredentialsNone typically required, customer service skills preferredCustomer service experience, sometimes food safety certifications

Buffet Servers focus on managing buffet stations and assisting guests in self-serve environments, while Waitstaff take orders and serve food directly at tables. Both roles require strong customer service skills but differ in responsibilities and work settings.

Is being a buffet server easy?

Buffet servers are responsible for refilling food, assisting customers, and maintaining cleanliness in a fast-paced environment. The job requires good communication skills, physical stamina, and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, which can be challenging for some individuals.

What are the most commonly searched types of Buffet Server jobs in California?

The most popular types of Buffet Server jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Buffet Server jobs?

Cities in California with the most Buffet Server job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Buffet Server jobs in CA?

For Buffet Server jobs in CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Buffet Server jobs near you
Infographic showing various Buffet Server job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $23,841 per year, or $11.5 per hour.

Carhop or Skating Carhop

Sonic

San Diego, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 days ago

Sonic Drive-In rating

4.7

Company rating: 4.7 out of 10

Based on 1,625 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

81st of 106 rated fast food restaurants

Job description

Looking for a way to apply that boundless enthusiasm you wake up with every morning? We can help. At SONIC, you get great pay, flexible hours and a cool uniform-while doing the job you love.

Get paid DAILY!

As a SONIC Carhop, you are part of an elite group, filling a role offered by no other company. Being a Carhop (aka super cool food server) is like being an astronaut, only you work in a drive-in restaurant instead of space, and the food's way better. You're responsible for serving and delivering that food safely and efficiently, ensuring our guests have a truly out-of-this-world experience at SONIC Drive-In restaurants.

As a SONIC Drive-In Carhop, your primary responsibility is to provide every guest with a SuperSONIC experience by:

  • Delivering a warm, friendly, and fast experience to every guest
  • Being a menu genius and helping SONIC customers navigate all customizable combinations
  • Being empowered to resolve customer concerns, guaranteeing every guest leaves satisfied
  • Maintaining SONIC safety and sanitation standards

Depending upon the employment practices of the individual SONIC Drive-In restaurant owner, some SONIC Drive-Ins employ Skating Carhop servers:

  • Skating Carhop servers are unique to the SONIC Drive-In restaurant brand and bring a special "surprise and delight" element to the guest experience.
  • Skating Carhop servers must complete the SONIC Skating Training Program.
  • Upon successful completion of this program, Skating Carhops perform the above duties while roller skating.

Qualifications:

Additional Carhop/Skating Carhop server Qualifications...

  • Friendly and smiling faces that enjoy providing courteous service to our restaurant guests!
  • A willingness to cross-train on all the stations - it never gets boring here!
  • A team player keen on cleanliness and safety.

Sure, classic cars and vintage threads may be things of the past, but the Sonic Drive-In experience will always be groovy, right on, awesome, wicked, fab, the bee's knees, cruisin' . . . you get the picture! It's downright sensational!!

All that's missing is you, so APPLY TODAY!

SONIC and its independent franchise owners are Equal Opportunity Employers.

Requirements:

Carhop/Skating Carhop server requirements:

  • Contagiously positive attitude (You are a SONIC Brand Ambassador!)
  • Ability to remain calm, especially in tough situations
  • Resilient spirit - knowing everyone makes mistakes and can bounce back from a set-back
  • Eagerness to learn and grow
  • Team mentality and willingness to help where needed
  • Effective communication skills; basic math and reading skills
  • Willingness to work flexible hours; night, weekend, and holiday shifts
  • Privacy Policy and Notice to Applicants - https://pacificdriveins.com/privacy
Company Introduction

Here at SONIC Drive-in, our priority isn't just great service, it's great experiences. Whether you're coming for a Cherry Limeade on your lunch break or picking up Shakes with your team after a big win, we're ready for you. That's why our drive-in makes your burgers with 100% pure beef patties, prepares hand-made onion rings, and serves real ice cream. Carhops deliver orders with a smile because "This is How We SONIC". Download the SONIC app and order your favorites to enjoy exclusive perks and offers, including half price drinks and slushes any time. Stop by to treat yourself today!

What Sonic Drive-In employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Apply