Food Runner (Full-Time and On-Call, AM and PM shifts)

Forbes Four-Star Rated | Awarded Two MICHELIN Keys by the MICHELIN Guide

A Destination of Sustainable Luxury

Welcome to Alila Ventana Big Sur

At the edge of the continent-where the sky, sea, mountains, and redwoods meet-you'll find a sanctuary of profound beauty and inspiration. Alila Ventana Big Sur is a luxury, all-inclusive resort rooted in nature, discovery, and wellbeing. We are proud to be Forbes Four-Star rated and awarded Two MICHELIN Keys by the MICHELIN Guide, distinctions that recognize our unwavering commitment to excellence, authenticity, and transformative hospitality.

As part of the Hyatt Hotels family and the design-forward Alila brand, we offer sustainable luxury-high-touch, low-impact experiences that honor the land and elevate the human spirit. We seek passionate individuals who embody warmth, curiosity, and creativity, and who thrive in a guest-centered culture of connection and care.

Position Overview

The Food Runner plays a crucial role in ensuring the seamless flow of service between the kitchen and dining areas. This position is responsible for accurately and efficiently delivering dishes to guests, supporting servers, and maintaining the pace and presentation standards that reflect Alila Ventana Big Sur's luxury dining experience. The ideal candidate is organized, attentive, and committed to working as part of a collaborative team that creates memorable moments for every guest. This position also requires flexibility and a team-focused mindset, with the expectation of supporting other Food & Beverage service roles-such as Server Assistant, Host, or Barback-when operational needs arise.

Our Values in Action

At Alila Ventana Big Sur, our culture is guided by empathy, integrity, experimentation, inclusion, respect, and wellbeing. We truly listen, collaborate openly, and take ownership to ensure every guest and colleague feels valued. In this role, flexibility and teamwork are essential-we believe in supporting one another, and you'll never hear us say "that's not my job." Instead, we step in where needed to deliver exceptional service, whether assisting in the dining room, expediting food, or helping a fellow team member create a memorable moment.

Key Responsibilities

Service Excellence

• Deliver food and beverages promptly and accurately to guests according to service standards
• Ensure all dishes are presented according to chef specifications before leaving the kitchen
• Communicate any special requests, allergies, or modifications to the kitchen and service team
• Maintain a steady flow between the kitchen and dining areas to support timely service
• Assist in clearing, resetting, and maintaining dining areas to luxury standards

Guest Interaction

• Present dishes with confidence, providing brief descriptions when appropriate
• Anticipate guest needs by observing and responding quickly to cues
• Support the overall guest experience by offering assistance to servers as needed

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with servers, kitchen staff, and management to ensure accurate and timely delivery of orders
• Assist with polishing silverware, glassware, and plateware to maintain luxury presentation
• Support event setups, private dining, and special culinary experiences
• Step into other F&B support roles (e.g., Server Assistant, Host, Barback) when business levels require

Standards & Presentation

• Uphold and embody the standards that earned our resort its Forbes Four-Star rating and Two MICHELIN Keys
• Maintain a polished, professional appearance that reflects the brand's commitment to sustainable luxury
• Ensure all actions align with Hyatt's purpose of care and Alila's ethos of connection and authenticity

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Hourly Rate: $16.50 per hour
• Service Charge Eligibility: This position participates in Ventana Big Sur's all-inclusive resort model and is eligible to receive a weekly service charge payout based on business levels and occupancy
• Projected Total Hourly Earnings: Up to $55.00 per hour, inclusive of base pay and service charge

Hyatt Benefits

• Annual allotment of free hotel stays at Hyatt properties worldwide
• Paid Time Off
• Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401(k) with company match (after 30 days)
• Complimentary Headspace subscription and tuition reimbursement
• Paid parental leave and adoption financial assistance

Ventana Big Sur Colleague Perks

• Paid meal breaks
• Gas stipend for eligible colleagues
• Complimentary daily meal

Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.

• Previous experience in luxury hospitality or fine dining preferred

• Strong attention to detail and ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment

• Warm, professional, and guest-focused demeanor

• Excellent communication and teamwork skills

• Flexible availability for AM and PM shifts, including weekends and holidays

• Shift Availability: AM shift (6:30 AM - 2:30 PM) and PM shift (3:30 PM - 11:30 PM)

• Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand or walk for extended periods, up to 8-10 hours per shift

• Frequent lifting, carrying, and transporting of items up to 50 pounds

• Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor dining environments

• Ability to bend, reach, and move swiftly in a service setting