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Restaurant Assistant Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Culver's

Assistant Manager

Powell, TN · On-site

Culver's is looking for Restaurant Assistant Managers If you have a passion for restaurant industry and desire to serve others, then this job is for you! We offer: · Competitive wages · ...

Culver's

Assistant Manager

Alcoa, TN

Culver's is looking for Restaurant Assistant Managers If you have a passion for restaurant industry and desire to serve others, then this job is for you! We offer: · Competitive wages · ...

Culver's

Assistant Manager

Knoxville, TN

Culver's is looking for Restaurant Assistant Managers If you have a passion for restaurant industry and desire to serve others, then this job is for you! We offer: · Competitive wages · ...

Applebee's

Assistant Restaurant Manager

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Growth. As an Applebee's ® Assistant Restaurant Manager, you will be engaged in all aspects of the day-to-day operations at the restaurant. The Assistant Restaurant Manager is responsible for ...

Applebee's

Assistant Restaurant Manager

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$62K - $66K/yr

Growth. As an Applebee's ® Assistant Restaurant Manager, you will be engaged in all aspects of the day-to-day operations at the restaurant. The Assistant Restaurant Manager is responsible for ...

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Restaurant Assistant information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

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How much do restaurant assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for restaurant assistant in Oak Ridge, TN is $14.80, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.49 and $15.38 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the role of a restaurant assistant?

A restaurant assistant supports daily operations by helping serve customers, prepare food, clean, and maintain the dining area. They often work under supervision, require good communication skills, and may handle tasks such as taking orders, setting tables, and assisting with inventory. The role helps ensure smooth service and a positive customer experience.

What are some typical challenges a Restaurant Assistant might face during busy shifts?

As a Restaurant Assistant, managing multiple tasks simultaneously during peak hours can be challenging. You'll often need to balance supporting servers, handling customer requests, restocking supplies, and ensuring cleanliness—all while maintaining a positive attitude. Good communication and teamwork are essential, as you’ll work closely with kitchen staff, servers, and management to keep operations running smoothly. Developing strong organizational and time-management skills will help you excel and reduce stress during busy periods.

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

To thrive as a Restaurant Assistant, you need strong customer service skills, basic food safety knowledge, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and adherence to local health regulations are typically required. Excellent communication, teamwork, and the ability to remain calm under pressure help you stand out in this role. These skills ensure efficient service, customer satisfaction, and smooth restaurant operations.

What are Restaurant Assistants?

Restaurant Assistants are support staff who help ensure the smooth operation of a restaurant. Their duties can include greeting guests, taking reservations, assisting servers, setting and clearing tables, and helping with basic food preparation or cleaning tasks. They play a key role in maintaining a pleasant dining environment and efficient service. Restaurant Assistants often work closely with both kitchen and front-of-house teams to enhance the overall customer experience.

Which work can I do in a restaurant?

A restaurant assistant can perform various tasks such as serving customers, taking orders, cleaning tables, preparing food, and assisting with kitchen duties. They often need good communication skills, a friendly attitude, and may require food safety certifications depending on the role. The work environment is fast-paced and customer-focused.

Can I work in a restaurant with no experience?

Restaurant assistants often do not need prior experience, as many entry-level positions focus on basic tasks like serving, cleaning, or assisting with food prep. Employers typically provide on-the-job training, and having good communication skills and a positive attitude can help you get started. Certifications such as food safety training may be required or beneficial.

What restaurant job pays the most?

In restaurants, executive chef and general manager positions tend to have the highest salaries, often exceeding $70,000 annually depending on the establishment and location. These roles require extensive experience, leadership skills, and often involve overseeing kitchen operations or overall restaurant management.

What is the difference between Restaurant Assistant vs Waitstaff?

AspectRestaurant AssistantWaitstaff
CredentialsNone required, on-the-job trainingNone required, customer service skills preferred
Work EnvironmentKitchen support, front-of-house, back-of-houseFront-of-house, serving customers
Employer & Industry UsageRestaurants, cafes, catering servicesRestaurants, cafes, bars
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

While both roles are essential in the restaurant industry, a Restaurant Assistant typically supports kitchen and front-of-house operations, often with minimal experience required. Waitstaff primarily serve customers at tables, focusing on customer service. The roles overlap in customer interaction but differ in responsibilities and work environment.

What are the most commonly searched types of Restaurant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN? The most popular types of Restaurant jobs in Oak Ridge, TN are:
What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Restaurant Assistant jobs? Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Restaurant Assistant job openings:
Restaurant Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Restaurant Assistant job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,780 per year, or $14.8 per hour.

Restaurant Assistant Manager - Upscale Dining

Gecko Hospitality

Knoxville, TN • On-site

$60K - $72K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Restaurant Assistant Manager


Upscale Dining


Join a thriving upscale dining concept featuring a scratch kitchen, seasonal menus, creative craft cocktails, and a beautiful, guest-focused atmosphere. This is an excellent opportunity for a hospitality leader who is passionate about delivering exceptional dining experiences, developing high-performing teams, and driving operational excellence.


Key Responsibilities


  • Lead, develop, coach, and support restaurant team members and managers to maintain high service and operational standards.
  • Ensure an exceptional guest experience by actively engaging with guests, resolving concerns, and fostering positive relationships.
  • Oversee daily restaurant operations, including food quality, service execution, and beverage programs.
  • Partner with culinary and front-of-house leadership to drive menu execution, quality standards, and profitability.
  • Manage labor, scheduling, inventory, purchasing, and operating expenses to achieve financial goals.
  • Maintain facility standards and identify opportunities for operational improvements.
  • Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and participate in operational planning meetings.
  • Maintain a flexible schedule, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.


Qualifications


  • 2+ years of restaurant management full-service experience
  • Strong knowledge of restaurant operations, guest service, food and beverage management, labor controls, and financial performance.
  • Experience with scheduling, inventory management, budgeting, and POS/computer systems.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and team-building skills.


Benefits


  • 100% Paid Medical Benefits
  • Vision & Dental offered
  • Paid Time Off
  • Paid Training
  • Flexible Scheduling
  • Career Growth Opportunities


Apply Now – Restaurant Assistant Manager. If you would like to be considered for this position, email your resume to cindy@geckohospitality.com.

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