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Lead Server Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Reata Glen

Lead Server

Ladera Ranch, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Lead Server Full-Time: 5 days per week. Monday-Saturday 11:30am-8pm and Sunday 8am-4:30pm. * Minimum 1 weekend shift required Rate: $19 - $20/hr based on experience * LOTS of growth opportunity in a ...

Reata Glen

Senior Lead Server

Ladera Ranch, CA

$22 - $23/hr

Senior Lead Server Full-Time: 5 days per week. Monday-Saturday 11:30am-8pm and Sunday 8am-4:30pm. * Minimum 1 weekend shift required Rate: $22 - $23/hr based on experience * LOTS of growth ...

Enso Village

Lead Server

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

As the Lead Server, you will assist the Dining Room Manager in coordinating dining room operations, managing bar services, and completing administrative tasks. You will also lead by example, motivate ...

The Kendal Corporation

Lead Server

Healdsburg, CA · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

As the Lead Server, you will assist the Dining Room Manager in coordinating dining room operations, managing bar services, and completing administrative tasks. You will also lead by example, motivate ...

The Kendal Corporation

Lead Server

Healdsburg, CA

$27 - $30/hr

As the Lead Server, you will assist the Dining Room Manager in coordinating dining room operations, managing bar services, and completing administrative tasks. You will also lead by example, motivate ...

Kendal at Sonoma

Lead Server

Healdsburg, CA

$27 - $30/hr

As the Lead Server, you will assist the Dining Room Manager in coordinating dining room operations, managing bar services, and completing administrative tasks. You will also lead by example, motivate ...

Kisco Senior Living

Lead Server

Walnut Creek, CA · On-site

$21.47 - $25/hr

The Lead Server delivers exemplary dining service to residents and guests, ensuring that their dining experience is professional as well as warm and inviting. Schedule: Tues-Sat 11:30am-7:30pm Pay ...

Oakmont Senior Living

Lead Server

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Emergency Financial Assistance The Lead Server is responsible for serving food in a friendly, courteous manner, and performing a variety of duties in and around the dining area and kitchen in order ...

Ivy Living

Lead Server

Laguna Woods, CA · On-site

$18 - $19/hr

Lead Server Full Time / Part Time Pay Range: $18.00 - $19.00 per hour The Ivy at Wellington is a premier senior living community situated on a beautifully landscaped campus. Managed by Oakmont ...

Oakmont Senior Living

Lead Server

Laguna Woods, CA

$18 - $19/hr

Lead Server Full Time / Part Time Pay Range: $18.00 - $19.00 per hour The Ivy at Wellington is a premier senior living community situated on a beautifully landscaped campus. Managed by Oakmont ...

Ivy Living

Lead Server

Vallejo, CA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Emergency Financial Assistance The Lead Server is responsible for serving food in a friendly, courteous manner, and performing a variety of duties in and around the dining area and kitchen in order ...

Oakmont Senior Living

Lead Server

Novato, CA · On-site

$23 - $24.50/hr

Lead Server Full-Time Pay Range: $23.00 - $24.50/ hour Oakmont of Novato is a premier senior living community situated on a beautifully landscaped campus. Managed by Oakmont Management Group,we ...

Oakmont Senior Living

Lead Server

Novato, CA · On-site

$23 - $24.50/hr

Lead Server Full-Time Pay Range: $23.00 - $24.50/ hour Oakmont of Novato is a premier senior living community situated on a beautifully landscaped campus. Managed by Oakmont Management Group, we ...

Cal-a-Vie Health Spa

Be Seen First

Shift Lead Server

Vista, CA · On-site

$18.50/hr

Position Summary The Lead Server is responsible for assisting Food and Beverage Management or Executive Chef in the overall Dining Room/Kitchen operation. Supervise the shift(s) ensuring that all ...

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All JobsLead Server JobsLead Server Jobs in California

Lead Server information

See California salary details

$9

$21

$49

How much do lead server jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for lead server in California is $21.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.19 and $24.42 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a lead server?

Lead Servers are experienced restaurant staff responsible for supervising and coordinating the work of other servers. They ensure high-quality service, manage table assignments, handle customer concerns, and often assist with training new staff. Lead Servers act as a bridge between servers and management, helping to maintain smooth operations during shifts. Their role is essential for delivering excellent customer experiences and supporting the overall efficiency of the dining service.

What are some typical challenges lead servers face when managing a team during peak service hours?

Lead Servers often encounter challenges such as coordinating efficient communication between front-of-house staff and the kitchen, handling sudden surges in customer volume, and resolving unexpected issues like staff shortages or customer concerns. Staying organized and maintaining a positive, calm demeanor helps in delegating tasks effectively and ensuring seamless service. Additionally, balancing supervisory responsibilities with direct guest interaction requires strong multitasking and problem-solving skills.

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

To thrive as a Lead Server, you need extensive experience in food service, strong organizational skills, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, reservation software, and health and safety regulations is typically required. Exceptional communication, leadership, and conflict resolution abilities help you effectively manage staff and provide top-tier customer service. These skills ensure smooth restaurant operations, satisfied guests, and a motivated team environment.

What is the difference between Lead Server vs Server?

AspectLead ServerServer
CredentialsExperience in hospitality, often leadership skillsBasic food service knowledge, sometimes certification
Work EnvironmentSupervises staff, manages sections, handles customer issuesServes customers, takes orders, delivers food
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, hotels, catering servicesRestaurants, cafes, bars
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for leadership roles in food serviceEntry to mid-level food service position

The main difference between a Lead Server and a Server is that the Lead Server has additional responsibilities such as supervising staff, managing sections, and handling customer concerns, while a Server primarily focuses on taking orders and serving food. Lead Servers typically have more experience and may require leadership skills, whereas Servers focus on delivering excellent customer service. Both roles are essential in the hospitality industry, but the Lead Server holds a more supervisory position.

What does a lead server do?

A lead server supervises the dining room staff, ensures excellent customer service, and manages the flow of service during shifts. They often handle training, resolve customer issues, and coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure timely delivery of orders. Strong communication skills and knowledge of restaurant operations are essential for this role.

What are popular job titles related to Lead Server jobs in California?

For Lead Server jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Lead Server jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Lead Server jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Lead Server jobs?

Cities in California with the most Lead Server job openings:

Lead Server jobs near you
Infographic showing various Lead Server job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 7% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,574 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Lead Server

Reata Glen

Ladera Ranch, CA • On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Lead Server

Full-Time: 5 days per week. Monday-Saturday 11:30am-8pm and Sunday 8am-4:30pm.

* Minimum 1 weekend shift required

Rate: $19 - $20/hr based on experience

  • LOTS of growth opportunity in a stable & beautiful work environment.
  • Fulltime Benefits include PTO, Holidays, Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and more.
  • 401k with employer match.
  • Tuition Assistance.
  • Talent development program.
  • Access to on-demand pay.
  • Commuter reimbursement.

The Lead Server is responsible for table service within the Community dining rooms. This server must set the standard for all other servers to follow. The Lead Server is responsible for assisting management to ensure the highest standards of customer service are being met by the rest of the wait staff.

PRINCIPLE DUTIES:

  • Ability to effectively provide service to numerous tables in the busiest sections of the Dining Room.
  • Responsible for training new hires and teaching others how to effectively train when necessary.
  • Work with management to handle any complaints and find solutions.
  • Assist with supervising the wait staff. These duties include: keeping everyone on task, delegating responsibilities, encouraging wait staff when necessary, and bringing problems to the attention of management.
  • Work with management to coordinate staff for special functions and large parties. These duties will also require knowledge of event set-up and operation.
  • Takes orders, provides service and all requested items both graciously and courteously.
  • Answers pertinent questions about menu items.
  • Help meet department standards by working with kitchen staff to ensure the best quality of food is served to the residents.
  • Other duties as assigned by supervisor.

What you will bring

Our ideal candidate will be reliable and follow safety procedures and duties assigned by a supervisor.

  • Ability to understand and follow instructions in English and communicate effectively.
  • Legally Authorized to work in the United States

Please apply to this job or look at other available positions using the link below!

https://reataglen.com/current-openings/

Our company is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate based on race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.

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