Captain

ABOUT SAGA

SAGA is a Modern American fine dining restaurant located on the 63rd floor of 70 Pine Street in New York City’s Financial District.

Opened in 2021 by Chef Jamal James Kent, SAGA earned two Michelin stars within its first year and has maintained that standard through a  commitment to precision, discipline, and evolution. 

Today, under the leadership of Executive Chef Charlie Mitchell, SAGA continues to push forward with a clear and focused vision. 

The menu reflects a Modern American perspective, drawing from the richness of the Hudson Valley’s seasonal ingredients while embracing the diverse culinary influences that define New York City. Each tasting menu is shaped by a balance of refinement, creativity, and a strong sense of narrative.

The beverage program mirrors this philosophy, with a wine list that spans both classic and emerging regions, highlighting thoughtful, artisanal producers alongside benchmark estates. The program is designed to complement and elevate the guest experience with equal parts precision and discovery.

One floor above SAGA is Overstory, an award-winning cocktail bar offering panoramic views of the city. Together, the two concepts form a cohesive destination, united by a shared commitment to excellence, innovation, and world-class hospitality.

At every level, SAGA is driven by a pursuit of continuous improvement and a dedication to delivering an experience that is both exacting and memorable, an environment designed for hospitality professionals who are passionate about their craft and committed to operating at the highest level.

POSITION: CAPTAIN

As a Captain at SAGA, you are the primary architect of the guest experience, guiding each table through a Modern American tasting menu with precision, intention, and genuine hospitality. From the initial welcome through departure, you are responsible for shaping a seamless, personalized journey that reflects the highest standards of fine dining.

This role is designed for experienced professionals who view service as both a craft and a form of leadership. You will orchestrate every aspect of the dining experience, working in close collaboration with the Sommelier and Front Server to ensure that timing, communication, and execution are flawless. Your presence sets the tone for the table, refined yet approachable, confident yet intuitive.

As a leader on the floor, you are responsible for directing and supporting your team through a highly detailed and choreographed service. You must be able to create structure, clarity, and calm in high-pressure environments while maintaining an unwavering commitment to excellence.

The Captain must possess advanced emotional intelligence, the ability to read and respond to subtle guest cues, and the flexibility to adapt service in real time. Personalization, discretion, and anticipation are essential to success in this role.

SAGA operates with a “whole house” philosophy, where all departments, Pastry, Savory, Dining Room, and Facilities, function as one unified team. As a Captain, you are expected to communicate with clarity, respect, and authority across all departments, fostering a culture rooted in accountability, professionalism, and mutual support.

CANDIDATE PROFILE

• Minimum 2+ years of experience in a Michelin-starred or equivalent fine dining environment, with prior leadership responsibilities strongly preferred
• Demonstrates a polished, confident, and gracious presence, with the ability to command a dining room section with subtle authority
• Advanced knowledge of Modern American cuisine, with strong proficiency in wine, spirits, and contemporary service techniques
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and motivate a small team within a highly detail-oriented service model
• Exceptional communication skills, with the ability to guide guest interactions while directing team execution simultaneously
• Highly adaptable, with the ability to improvise and personalize service in real time
• Strong organizational skills and acute attention to detail across all aspects of service
• Committed to continuous learning and refinement within the craft of hospitality
• Full schedule availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

SERVICE RESPONSIBILITIES

The Captain is responsible for, but not limited to:

• Orchestrating a polished, seamless, and deeply personalized dining experience for each table
• Leading a service team (Front Server, Kitchen Server, and Sommelier support) with clarity, precision, and accountability
• Managing the flow and pacing of a multi-course tasting menu, ensuring synchronization between kitchen and dining room
• Engaging guests with thoughtful, concise, and informed dialogue, adapting tone and depth to each table
• Presenting and maintaining expert-level knowledge of the menu, ingredients, techniques, and beverage program
• Anticipating guest needs and responding to both expressed and unspoken cues with discretion and professionalism
• Upholding and executing all service standards with consistency and attention to detail
• Maintaining composure and decisiveness in high-pressure situations while supporting the team
• Identifying and resolving service challenges proactively and effectively

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Stand and remain actively engaged on the floor for extended periods (5+ hours)
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds when necessary
• Move efficiently throughout the dining room, including navigating stairs and extended distances
• Work comfortably in elevated spaces, elevators, and confined areas