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First Server Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Server

Washington, DC · On-site

$10/hr

The Server at First Batch plays a pivotal role in delivering a world-class guest experience. In this hourly position, you will engage with guests, showcasing our wines, small plates, and overall ...

Server

Laurel, MD · On-site

Paid Time Off - 10 days in your first year as Full-time employee & 6 days as Part-Time. * Tuition ... Server - Position Summary: The Server provides assistance in all food functions as directed ...

Paid Time Off - 10 days in your first year as Full-time employee & 6 days as Part-Time. * Tuition ... Server - Position Summary: The Server provides assistance in all food functions as directed ...

Event Server-District Winery District Winery is a people and purpose driven organization. We believe our team is our biggest asset and the key to our success. We pride ourselves in providing an ...

Server

Fulton, MD · On-site

$3.63/hr

Servers are responsible for setting up the dining room and server station at the beginning of the ... People First! Create an environment that attracts and retains great people. A company that is ...

OverviewOur YOU FIRST Philosophy In addition to no night shifts, ever and our fully chef-curated ... In addition, our Servers: * Support fellow team members at every opportunity and believe in the ...

So be kind and put each other first. Together, we are YARD HOUSE. * Celebrate Variety - We like our people, food, beer, and experiences to be extraordinary. Diversity makes life interesting. Embrace ...

Server

Mclean, VA · On-site

So be kind and put each other first. Together, we are YARD HOUSE. * Celebrate Variety - We like our people, food, beer, and experiences to be extraordinary. Diversity makes life interesting. Embrace ...

Server

Reston, VA

$15 - $16/hr

Server - Hunters Woods at Trails Edge Love to make a difference in the lives of seniors? At Hunters ... make the first step in our hiring process simple, convenient, and engaging for all candidates.

Overview Our YOU FIRST Philosophy In addition to no night shifts, ever and our fully chef-curated ... In addition, our Servers: * Support fellow team members at every opportunity and believe in the ...

Server

Reston, VA · On-site

Overview Our YOU FIRST Philosophy In addition to no night shifts, ever and our fully chef-curated ... In addition, our Servers: * Support fellow team members at every opportunity and believe in the ...

Overview Our YOU FIRST Philosophy In addition to no night shifts, ever and our fully chef-curated ... In addition, our Servers: * Support fellow team members at every opportunity and believe in the ...

Server

Bethesda, MD

$17.50 - $18.50/hr

Server Position Summary The Server plays an essential role in creating a welcoming and enjoyable ... first step in our hiring process simple, convenient, and engaging for all candidates. Modena ...

Are a Team Player with a guest first attitude * Have 1+ year Server experience * Are 18 years of age (required for service of alcohol) * Have a passion for great food and great fun * Enjoy working in ...

Are a Team Player with a guest first attitude * Have 1+ year Server experience * Are 18 years of age (required for service of alcohol) * Have a passion for great food and great fun * Enjoy working in ...

So be kind and put each other first. Together, we are YARD HOUSE. * Celebrate Variety - We like our people, food, beer, and experiences to be extraordinary. Diversity makes life interesting. Embrace ...

So be kind and put each other first. Together, we are YARD HOUSE. * Celebrate Variety - We like our people, food, beer, and experiences to be extraordinary. Diversity makes life interesting. Embrace ...

Our Servers know our diverse menus inside and out and don't blink when a Guest orders something ... So be kind and put each other first. Together, we are YARD HOUSE. Celebrate Variety - We like our ...

Are a Team Player with a guest first attitude * Have 1+ year Server experience * Are 18 years of age (required for service of alcohol) * Have a passion for great food and great fun * Enjoy working in ...

Our Servers know our diverse menus inside and out and don't blink when a Guest orders something ... So be kind and put each other first. Together, we are YARD HOUSE. Celebrate Variety - We like our ...

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First Server information

What are First Servers?

A First Server is typically an entry-level position in the restaurant industry, referring to the first point of contact for guests at their table. First Servers are responsible for greeting guests, taking orders, serving food and beverages, and ensuring a positive dining experience. They play a key role in customer satisfaction and are often expected to have strong communication and multitasking skills. The position can be a stepping stone to more advanced roles in hospitality. Duties may vary depending on the specific restaurant or establishment.

What is the difference between First Server vs Food Runner?

AspectFirst ServerFood Runner
Primary RoleTake customer orders, serve food and beverages, handle customer inquiriesDeliver prepared food from kitchen to tables, assist with food presentation
Required SkillsCustomer service, communication, order takingFood handling, speed, coordination
Work EnvironmentFront-of-house, direct customer interactionBack-of-house and front-of-house, fast-paced
Common CertificationsFood Handler’s Permit, ServSafeFood Handler’s Permit, ServSafe

While both roles are essential in the restaurant industry, the First Server primarily interacts with customers, taking orders and serving food, whereas the Food Runner focuses on delivering food from the kitchen to the tables efficiently. Both positions often require similar certifications and work in similar environments, but their responsibilities differ in customer interaction and food delivery tasks.

What are some common challenges faced by First Servers during busy shifts, and how can they effectively manage them?

First Servers often encounter high-pressure situations during peak dining hours, such as managing multiple tables, handling special requests, and ensuring timely service. To succeed, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with kitchen staff and fellow servers, and prioritize tasks efficiently. Developing good time management skills and remaining calm under pressure can help maintain a positive guest experience and smooth team operations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a First Server, and why are they important?

To thrive as a First Server, you need strong customer service skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, and experience in food and beverage service, often supported by relevant training or certifications such as a food handler’s permit. Familiarity with point of sale (POS) systems and reservation management tools is typically required. Exceptional communication, multitasking, and conflict resolution abilities help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient service, satisfied guests, and smooth restaurant operations.
What cities in Washington are hiring for First Server jobs? Cities in Washington with the most First Server job openings:

$10/hr

Part-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

District Winery--Server (Full Time)
District Winery is building one of Washington, D.C.'s most dynamic urban winery experiences, and we are seeking hospitality professionals who want to be part of that vision!
The Server at First Batch plays a pivotal role in delivering a world-class guest experience. In this hourly position, you will engage with guests, showcasing our wines, small plates, and overall winery experience. You will be responsible for confidently guiding guests through wine tastings, recommending wine pairings, and promoting our Wine Club and retail bottles. As a key representative of First Batch your primary goal is to enhance the guest experience while driving membership sales, retail bottle purchases, and awareness of our events, tours, and classes. This position requires a deep knowledge of our wines and events, a genuine passion for wine, and the ability to work seamlessly with a team
Position Summary
The Server is a wine-driven service role for individuals with an existing foundation in wine and fine dining hospitality. This is not an entry-level position. We are looking for professionals who are confident in their wine knowledge, committed to continued education, and motivated to grow within a serious wine program. In this role, you will guide guests through thoughtful tastings, curate food and wine pairings, and serve as a trusted ambassador of our wines, Wine Club, and experiences. The ideal candidate blends polished service with authentic warmth and takes pride in delivering hospitality at the highest level.
Responsibilities
Guest Experience & Hospitality:
  • Deliver a refined, welcoming, and personalized guest experience
  • Confidently lead structured wine tastings with clarity and professionalism
  • Provide intentional food and wine pairing recommendations
  • Anticipate guest needs and maintain seamless service standards

Wine Knowledge & Education:
  • Demonstrate strong working knowledge of grape varietals, regions, tasting structure, and food pairings
  • Speak confidently about District Winery's portfolio and urban winemaking approach
  • Actively pursue ongoing wine education and professional development

Sales & Brand Representation:
  • Thoughtfully introduce and successfully close Wine Club memberships
  • Drive retail bottle sales through consultative recommendations
  • Promote tours, classes, and ticketed events
  • Represent District Winery with professionalism and pride

Team Collaboration & Operational Excellence:
  • Collaborate seamlessly with culinary, events, and management teams
  • Maintain a polished, organized, and fully stocked tasting room
  • Execute opening, closing, and inventory procedures with precision
  • Accurately process transactions and uphold cash handling standards

Qualifications
  • Minimum 1+ year of service experience in casual fine dining or fine dining required
  • Existing wine knowledge required (varietals, regions, tasting notes, structure, pairings)
  • Wine certification (WSET, CMS, or equivalent) strongly preferred
  • Full-time availability required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Professional, polished demeanor with a genuine passion for wine and hospitality
  • Interest in building a long-term career in wine-focused hospitality

Essential Duties
  • Ability to stand and/or walk for 8-10 hours per shift
  • Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
  • Ability to navigate stairs within the venue
  • Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays

District Winery provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.