What are the duties of a waiter in bars and restaurants?

The hospitality sector in Spain is experiencing a period of great dynamism. According to the latest data from the Ministry of Industry and Tourism, in January 2025 tourism-related employment had grown by 4.1% compared with the same month of the previous year, reaching 2.62 million workers. A very significant proportion of these are professionals working in bars and restaurants. In fact, data from the InfoJobs employment portal indicates that the most in-demand role in the sector is, precisely, that of waiter, with more than 61,000 vacancies registered in 2024 alone.

The importance of these workers in hospitality is undeniable. They represent the first contact with the customer and are responsible for ensuring that the customer experience is satisfactory. 

What does the work and what are the duties of waiters? 

Waiters play a versatile role that goes far beyond simply serving tables, as they are also responsible for the overall customer experience and the smooth day-to-day running of part of what happens in establishments. Their work requires communication and organisational skills, as well as considerable physical effort, as they must manage multiple tasks under pressure during demanding shifts, spending many hours on their feet. Here are the main duties they perform. 

1. Customer care and service 

The waiter is the visible face of the establishment and the first point of contact with the customer. Their work begins by welcoming and seating diners, offering them the menu and explaining any aspect of the food and drinks. They are responsible for serving customers in a personalised way and resolving any questions. Their relationship with customers does not end until they leave the establishment. 

2. Preparing and organising the space 

Before opening and during service, the waiter is responsible for preparing and maintaining the work area in the best possible condition. In restaurants, this includes setting and arranging tables with cutlery, glassware and table linen, as well as organising the dining room layout to facilitate customer flow. 

3. Managing orders

They are responsible for taking note of what the customer wishes to consume and communicating it correctly to the bar or kitchen. Waiters' duties also include advising customers on the menu, as well as ensuring that dishes and drinks reach the table in the right condition and without delays. Coordination with the rest of the team is key to avoiding mistakes and delays.

4. Managing payments

The waiter is responsible for ensuring that consumed items are charged for, both in cash and using point-of-sale (POS) terminals. They must also ensure that receipts and invoices are issued correctly, guaranteeing security and transparency in the transaction. 

5. Maintaining order and cleanliness 

Before, during and after service, they must keep the space in perfect condition by removing used plates and utensils, cleaning tables and the bar, and maintaining a good image of the establishment. They also take part in cleaning and restocking materials so that the venue is ready for the following day. In small establishments, they may be responsible for washing dining-room crockery. The aim is always to offer a pleasant environment. 

6. Stock management and supplier relations 

In some cases, the waiter also takes part in receiving and checking goods, as well as replenishing products and materials needed for service. This involves maintaining smooth and constant communication with the kitchen team so that nothing is missing during their shift. 

How to improve the satisfaction and safety of waiters in bars and restaurants  

According to the recent study Food & Work. The New Horizon of Foodservice, prepared by Turijobs by Stepstone, the sector acknowledges that one of its main problems is the difficulty of finding and retaining talent. The report, based on the analysis of more than 20,000 job offers and over 600 interviews, highlights that the main reason is the dissatisfaction of waiters and other hospitality professionals due to low wages, lack of work-life balance and poor working hours. To reverse this, it is necessary to take various motivational measures that improve the wellbeing and safety of these professionals.  

Providing appropriate tools and equipment 

To work efficiently, waiters must have comfortable uniforms that facilitate mobility and provide a professional image. In addition, the use of ergonomic trays and modern POS systems helps streamline service and minimise errors. Using technological tools that facilitate smooth communication with the team also contributes to better performance.

Providing protective equipment

Professional footwear is one of the most important elements for waiter safety and wellbeing. Flexible, comfortable shoes with non-slip soles help reduce muscle fatigue and prevent injuries, increasing worker satisfaction and productivity. It is also advisable to provide staff with other PPE, such as protective gloves or durable aprons, among others.

Adopting measures that promote emotional wellbeing

In addition to an appropriate salary, setting rest breaks during each shift, promoting a positive work environment and offering professional recognition increases motivation and supports staff retention.

Training in occupational accident prevention

It is essential for waiters to receive training on the correct techniques for lifting loads, carrying trays and adopting proper postures during service. Workplace ergonomics help prevent musculoskeletal injuries, which are very common in the profession.

Waiter satisfaction is essential to ensure proper performance. At Shoes For Crews, we have a wide range of shoes that adapt to professionals' needs and promote their wellbeing. Contact us and we will help you find the most suitable models for your team.