Table Service Specialist in Alaska Career Overview

As a Table Service Specialist, your role is vital in crafting memorable dining experiences. You act as the bridge between the restaurant and its guests, ensuring that every meal is not just nourishing but also enjoyable. Your responsibilities encompass a variety of tasks that contribute to the overall atmosphere and efficiency of dining establishments, ranging from casual eateries to high-end restaurants.

Key aspects of this career include:

  • Customer Interaction: You engage directly with guests, taking orders, answering questions about the menu, and addressing any requests or concerns, all while maintaining a friendly demeanor.

  • Service Delivery: You ensure that food and beverages are served promptly and accurately. Your attention to detail plays a significant role in enhancing the dining experience, as even small missteps can affect guest satisfaction.

  • Ambiance Maintenance: You contribute to the restaurant’s atmosphere by assisting in setting tables, keeping the dining area clean, and ensuring a welcoming environment that encourages diners to return.

  • Team Collaboration: Working closely with kitchen staff and other service personnel is essential. You coordinate with them to ensure smooth operations, making sure that the front-of-house and back-of-house work in harmony.

  • Problem Resolution: Handling guest complaints and inquiries is an important part of the job. Your ability to resolve issues effectively can turn a potentially negative experience into a positive one.

Your role as a Table Service Specialist is fundamental in the hospitality industry, shaping perceptions of quality and service which can significantly influence a customer’s decision to return. The interactions you have with guests often leave lasting impressions, making your position both rewarding and essential for the success of the establishment.

Table Service Specialist Salary in Alaska

Annual Median: $26,610
Hourly Median: $12.8

Data sourced from Career One Stop, provided by the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics wage estimates.

Required Education To Become a Table Service Specialist in Alaska

To become a Table Service Specialist in Alaska, specific educational qualifications and training programs can enhance your expertise in the culinary field. Consider the following college degree programs:

  • Baking and Pastry Arts: This program focuses on the fundamental skills and techniques of baking and pastry creation, equipping you with knowledge about desserts, breads, and specialized confections.

  • Culinary Arts and Chef Training: This degree offers a comprehensive overview of culinary techniques, food preparation, and kitchen management. It prepares you for various kitchen roles, honing both cooking and service skills.

  • Culinary Arts and Related Services: This program encompasses a broader spectrum of culinary education, including food service management and nutrition, giving you a well-rounded background suitable for a variety of dining contexts.

  • Professional Food Preparation and Cooking: This training focuses on the techniques essential for food preparation, emphasizing both the art and science of cooking, and it prepares students for hands-on kitchen environments.

  • Restaurant, Culinary, and Catering Management: This program combines culinary learning with management skills, focusing on the operational aspects of running a restaurant or catering service, including customer service and event management.

Pursuing one or more of these educational pathways will provide you with the foundational knowledge and training necessary for a career as a Table Service Specialist.

Best Schools to become a Table Service Specialist in Alaska 2024

#1Boulder County

Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts-Boulder

Boulder, CO

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:46%
Total Enrollment:8,894
#2New York County

Institute of Culinary Education

New York, NY

In-State Tuition:$N/A
Out-of-State Tuition:$N/A
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:25%
Total Enrollment:676
#3Dutchess County

Culinary Institute of America

Hyde Park, NY

In-State Tuition:$33,850
Out-of-State Tuition:$33,850
Admission Rate:95%
Graduation Rate:71%
Total Enrollment:3,124
#4Bayamón Municipio

NUC University

Bayamon, PR

In-State Tuition:$6,448
Out-of-State Tuition:$8,160
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:63%
Total Enrollment:26,720
#5Orange County

Valencia College

Orlando, FL

In-State Tuition:$1,984
Out-of-State Tuition:$7,933
Admission Rate:N/A
Graduation Rate:45%
Total Enrollment:43,370
#6Providence County

Johnson & Wales University-Providence

Providence, RI

In-State Tuition:$37,896
Out-of-State Tuition:$37,896
Admission Rate:83%
Graduation Rate:59%
Total Enrollment:4,566
Table Service Specialist Job Description:
  • Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment.

Table Service Specialist Required Skills and Competencies in Alaska

  • Customer Service Skills: You must possess strong interpersonal skills to engage with customers effectively, ensuring they have a positive dining experience. This includes active listening and responding appropriately to their needs.

  • Communication Skills: Clear and concise communication is essential for interacting with both customers and kitchen staff. You should be able to convey information accurately, whether taking orders or addressing customer inquiries.

  • Attention to Detail: You need to pay close attention to orders, special requests, and customer preferences. This competency ensures accuracy, enhancing overall customer satisfaction.

  • Multitasking Abilities: You will often manage multiple tables and responsibilities simultaneously. The ability to prioritize tasks efficiently while maintaining service quality is vital.

  • Problem-Solving Skills: You should be adept at quickly resolving issues that may arise during service, whether related to customer complaints or operational challenges.

  • Time Management: Efficiently managing your time is necessary to ensure that all diners receive timely service, from taking orders to delivering food and checking on their needs.

  • Teamwork: You will often work alongside kitchen staff and fellow servers. Being cooperative and fostering a positive team environment contributes to a smooth service.

  • Sales Skills: Convincing customers to try specials or add-ons can enhance their dining experience and increase sales. You need a good understanding of the menu and the ability to make recommendations.

  • Adaptability: The dining environment can be unpredictable, so you should be flexible and willing to adapt to changing circumstances, such as large parties or unexpected rushes.

  • Physical Stamina: The role often requires long hours on your feet and the ability to carry heavy trays. Maintaining physical endurance is important for sustained performance.

  • Basic Math Skills: You will need to compute bills and handle transactions accurately, requiring a foundational understanding of mathematics for cash handling and billing.

  • Knowledge of Food Safety Standards: Understanding safe food handling practices is essential for ensuring customer safety and compliance with health regulations.

  • Cultural Awareness: Given Alaska's diverse population, you should have an understanding of different cultures and cuisines, enabling you to cater to a wide range of customers and preferences.

Job Duties for Table Service Specialists

  • Check patrons' identification to ensure that they meet minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages.

  • Check with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals, and take action to correct any problems.

  • Take orders from patrons for food or beverages.

Technologies and Skills Used by Table Service Specialists

Instant messaging software

  • Blink

Point of sale POS software

  • Hospitality Control Solutions Aloha Point-of-Sale
  • Intuit QuickBooks Point of Sale

Web page creation and editing software

  • Facebook

Basic Skills

  • Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
  • Talking to others

Social

  • Looking for ways to help people
  • Understanding people's reactions

Job Market and Opportunities for Table Service Specialist in Alaska

The job market for Table Service Specialists in Alaska presents a dynamic landscape influenced by various factors, including seasonal tourism, demographic trends, and the overall growth of the hospitality sector. Here are key insights into the current situation:

  • Demand for Table Service Specialists:

    • The demand for Table Service Specialists remains robust due to Alaska's unique position as a popular travel destination, especially during the summer months. Restaurants and hospitality venues often seek to enhance their service quality to cater to tourists looking for authentic dining experiences.
    • Local establishments, including seafood restaurants, lodges, and urban eateries, consistently require skilled table service professionals to accommodate both residents and visitors.

  • Growth Potential:

    • The hospitality sector, which includes table service roles, is projected to grow as more tourists flock to Alaska, drawn by its natural beauty and rich culture. This growth directly correlates with increased opportunities for Table Service Specialists across a variety of venues.
    • Seasonal fluctuations create multiple entry points for employment, from seasonal festivals and summer tourist influxes to winter activities, enhancing job availability year-round.

  • Geographical Hotspots:

    • Anchorage: As the largest city in Alaska, Anchorage sees a concentration of restaurants, catering companies, and hospitality venues, making it a primary area for job seekers in this field.
    • Juneau: The state capital hosts numerous dining establishments and attracts a considerable number of tourists, especially during the cruise season, increasing demand for table service professionals.
    • Fairbanks: Known for its winter tourism, Fairbanks provides opportunities in local diners and high-end restaurants, particularly catering to visitors participating in winter activities.
    • Southeast Alaska: Coastal communities, including Skagway and Ketchikan, experience peak demand during the cruise season, creating temporary and seasonal positions for table service roles.

  • Industry Trends:

    • The rise of fine dining and themed restaurants across Alaska has led to heightened interest in high-quality table service. This trend reflects a growing appreciation for culinary experiences, thereby expanding job opportunities for Table Service Specialists.
    • An increasing emphasis on sustainability and local sourcing in the Alaskan hospitality sector means that restaurants are hiring Table Service Specialists who can effectively communicate and promote these values to patrons.

Overall, the job market for Table Service Specialists in Alaska is favorable, with numerous opportunities arising from both the state's unique tourism characteristics and the ongoing development of the local hospitality sector.

Top Related Careers to Table Service Specialist 2024

Restaurant Service Associate
Food and Beverage Attendant
Table Service Coordinator

Additional Resources To Help You Become a Table Service Specialist in Alaska

  • Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development
    Explore labor market information, job training programs, and employment resources specific to Alaska.
    Alaska Department of Labor

  • American Restaurant Association (ARA)
    This organization provides insights into industry trends, training, and employment opportunities in the restaurant sector.
    American Restaurant Association

  • ServSafe
    This program offers food safety training and certification that is crucial for anyone involved in food service. Completing ServSafe training is often a requirement for table service specialists.
    ServSafe

  • National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF)
    The NRAEF provides resources for training and scholarships for individuals pursuing a career in the restaurant industry.
    NRAEF

  • Alaska Hospitality Employment Training (AHET)
    AHET focuses on providing training and resources specific to the hospitality industry in Alaska. This includes workshops and certification programs relevant to table service positions.
    AHET

  • American Culinary Federation (ACF)
    For those looking to advance their culinary and service skills, the ACF offers certifications, educational materials, and networking opportunities.
    American Culinary Federation

  • Indeed Career Guide
    This website features articles related to job searching in the food service industry, including advice on resumes, interviews, and career progression.
    Indeed Career Guide

  • LinkedIn Learning
    Access a variety of online courses focused on customer service skills, communication, and other relevant areas for table service specialists.
    LinkedIn Learning

  • JobShadow.com
    This platform allows you to explore various careers, including firsthand accounts from individuals currently working as table service specialists.
    JobShadow

These resources can provide you with the necessary knowledge, training, and connections to enhance your career as a Table Service Specialist in Alaska.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Table Service Specialist in Alaska

  • What does a Table Service Specialist do?
    As a Table Service Specialist, your primary role is to provide excellent customer service in dining establishments. This includes taking orders, serving food and beverages, and ensuring a positive dining experience for customers.

  • What skills are essential for a Table Service Specialist?
    Key skills include strong communication, the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, teamwork, multitasking, and a friendly demeanor. Knowledge of food safety and hygiene practices is also important.

  • Do I need prior experience to become a Table Service Specialist in Alaska?
    While prior experience in food service is beneficial, many establishments provide on-the-job training. A positive attitude and a willingness to learn are often more critical than experience.

  • What are the typical working hours for a Table Service Specialist?
    Working hours can vary greatly, often including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Flexibility in your schedule is important in this line of work.

  • Are there opportunities for advancement in this career?
    Yes, many Table Service Specialists move up to supervisory or management positions within restaurants or other food service establishments. Additional training and experience can enhance your advancement opportunities.

  • What is the average salary for a Table Service Specialist in Alaska?
    Salaries can vary based on experience, location, and the type of establishment. On average, you may earn around $30,000 to $40,000 annually, including tips.

  • Is it necessary to have a food handler’s card to work in Alaska?
    Yes, in Alaska, obtaining a food handler’s card is generally required for anyone working in food service. This demonstrates your knowledge of safe food handling practices.

  • What are some challenges faced by Table Service Specialists?
    Common challenges include managing difficult customers, dealing with the stress of busy service periods, and maintaining attention to detail under pressure.

  • What types of establishments employ Table Service Specialists?
    You can find employment in a variety of venues, including restaurants, cafes, bars, hotels, and catering services.

  • How do I improve my chances of getting hired as a Table Service Specialist?
    Consider gaining experience through internships or part-time positions. Highlight customer service skills in your resume and be prepared to demonstrate them during interviews. Networking within the industry can also be helpful.