To work as a waiter or waitress, you need:

On-the-job training;

Excellent communication skills; and

Work experience in a restaurant.

No formal education is required for this job. However, many employers prefer that you have a high school degree or its equivalent

Generally have a set schedule each week.

May work part time or full time, but most work less than 40 hours a week.

May work weekends, evenings, and holidays.

May work split shifts. For example, they might work from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m., with time off in between.

WAITERS AND WAITRESSES will:

Perform a variety of tasks, from filling water glasses to changing linen.

Constantly interact with customers and coworkers.

Often wear a uniform.

May work weekends, evenings, holidays, or split shifts.

Stand and walk for long periods of time.

Train on the job.

May need a health certificate.

WAITERS AND WAITRESSES frequently:

Stand and walk for long periods of time.

Use their hands to handle, control, or feel objects, tools, or controls.

Repeat the same movements.

Bend or twist their body.

It is important that WAITERS AND WAITRESSES be able to:

Speak clearly so listeners can understand.

Understand the speech of another person.

Use stomach and lower back muscles to support the body for long periods without getting tired.

Coordinate movement of several parts of the body, such as arms and legs, while the body is moving.

Hold the arm and hand in one position or hold the hand steady while moving the arm.