Professional Runner Jobs in Rochester, MI (NOW HIRING)

Position Description: COMPANY SUMMARY
ELIA Group is a multi-faceted, fully integrated real estate and hospitality company that acquires, develops, and manages commercial properties in landmark locations throughout the United States. In Real Estate & Development and Hospitality, we don’t sit back and let things happen, we make things happen! Whether we’re crafting deals or cocktails, our unparalleled attention to detail leads to award-winning real estate development and hospitality projects.
220 Merrill is ELIA Group’s premier upscale dining destination - offering elevated contemporary American cuisine with wood-fired specialties. Known for its precision-driven hospitality, expertly crafted cocktails, and high-energy ambiance - making it a go-to destination for both refined dining and celebratory occasions. More than just a restaurant, 220 Merrill delivers a dynamic experience — combining sophisticated design, an expansive patio scene, and vibrant entertainment. Whether hosting milestone celebrations, business gatherings, or stylish nights out, 220 Merrill sets the stage for unforgettable moments in an energetic, upscale environment.
POSITION SUMMARY
Food Runners are responsible for the accurate and efficient delivery of food from kitchen to guest. They ensure every plate is presented as intended—hot, clean, and correct—and that service moves in rhythm with the kitchen. This role requires organization, urgency, and attention to detail. Runners are expected to uphold 220’s service standards and support the entire floor and kitchen team throughout service.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Accuracy and Presentation
• Verify all items before leaving the pass.
• Deliver plates as designed by the chef, maintaining temperature and presentation.
• Handle all plateware and glassware carefully and professionally.
Timing and Flow
• Move efficiently while maintaining control and awareness.
• Coordinate with servers and the expo chef to ensure proper pacing of courses.
• Anticipate needs to keep service flow steady and uninterrupted.
Communication
• Announce dishes clearly when leaving the kitchen.
• Relay guest feedback, dietary notes, or timing adjustments promptly.
• Maintain open communication between the kitchen, expo, and dining room teams.
Cleanliness and Organization
• Keep runner stations, pass, and side stations clean and stocked.
• Assist in maintaining a clean and organized service area throughout the shift.
• Support end-of-shift breakdown and restocking for the following service.
Team Support
• Assist servers and fellow runners as needed.
• Maintain professionalism, composure, and pace during high-volume service.
• Actively contribute to a cooperative and disciplined team environment.
Expectations
• All food is delivered hot, accurate, and properly presented.
• Stations remain organized and fully stocked.
• Communication is clear, direct, and professional.
• The runner moves with urgency, purpose, and composure.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Prior restaurant experience is a plus, but not required —willing to train the right candidate with a strong work ethic and positive attitude.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Excellent communication skills and a friendly, team-oriented demeanor.
• Comfortable interacting with guests and coordinating with servers, hosts, and kitchen staff.
• Strong sense of urgency, organization, and attention to detail.
• Must be punctual, dependable, and maintain a clean, professional appearance.
• Ability to carry and deliver multiple plates or trays safely and efficiently.
• Able to understand and follow verbal and written instructions, including table numbers and menu items
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
At ELIA, we use our unique experience and contributions to deliver more than value – we set new standards! The Director of Operations we seek is someone looking for more than a job – we want to work with someone who is as passionate as us about what we do and how we go about doing it.
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
• Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k)
• Employee Dining Benefits
• Competitive hourly pay
• Flexible scheduling
• Access to one of Birmingham’s most exciting venues
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. This position is regularly required to stand for a prolonged period, reach, bend and lift heavy objects. The noise and activity level in the work environment is typically high. You may be required to carry glassware, alcohol, cases of beer, etc. and use knives and other kitchen tools.
• Standing for Long Periods: Food Runners are usually on their feet for most, if not all, of their shifts, which can last several hours.
• Lifting and Carrying: Food Runners need to lift and carry heavy items such as kegs, boxes of liquor, beer cases, or ice buckets, which can weigh 20-50 pounds or more.
• Manual Dexterity and Coordination: Food running requires precision in handling bottles, glasses, and tools. Fast, coordinated movements are essential for mixing drinks, pouring accurately, and working efficiently.
• Stamina and Endurance: The role can be physically taxing, with long shifts that may extend late into the night, requiring the Food Runner to remain energetic and focused.
• Repetitive Motions: Food Runners frequently repeat actions like shaking cocktails, opening bottles, and using bar tools, which can lead to strain over time.
• Good Vision and Hearing: Clear vision is necessary for reading labels, preparing drinks, and observing customers. Good hearing helps Food Runners understand orders in noisy environments.
• Balance and Agility: Food Runners often work in fast-paced environments, where they need to move quickly and carefully, avoiding spills or accidents.
• Basic Physical Strength: Being able to handle the physical aspects of cleaning the bar, stocking supplies, and handling waste or broken items is crucial.
OTHER DUTIES
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

$10.00 - $10.00 Hourly