Support Staff For an Ambitious Elevated Mexican Restaurant
About Us
Maria Isabel is a Mexican restaurant rooted in heritage, craft, and community. Our cooking draws from the regional traditions of Mexico, shaped by memory, season, and place, and expressed through the lens of Northern California’s produce and purveyors. The food is soulful and generous, guided by time-honored techniques, vibrant flavors, and a deep respect for where everything comes from.
Our approach to hospitality mirrors the kitchen. It’s warm, human, and intentional. We believe restaurants are built by people first, and that the best work happens when a team grows together, sharing knowledge, responsibility, and pride in what we create for our guests.
We’re currently building our opening team. This is a chance to be part of something from the beginning, to help shape the culture, the standards, and the voice of the restaurant alongside a team that values mentorship and long-term growth.
The Opportunity
We are looking for a full time Backwaiter to support the flow of service and help bring each dining experience to life. This role is essential to the rhythm of the dining room, working closely with servers, bartenders, and the kitchen to ensure every table is cared for with precision and intention.
The right person is attentive, organized, and naturally team oriented. You move with awareness, anticipate needs before they are spoken, and take pride in the details that often go unseen but are deeply felt by our guests.
Experience in a fine dining environment is a plus, but what matters most is your sense of care, humility, and consistency. You show up ready to support your team, maintain a high standard, and contribute to a thoughtful, polished service.
We are primarily looking for full evening availability. Our hours are Tuesday through Saturday in the evening, though we welcome all availability to apply.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
- Prepares the dining room for service, ensuring tables are set with precision and consistency.
- Maintains table presence by clearing and resetting courses in a timely and thoughtful manner.
- Refills and monitors water service, remaining attentive to guest needs throughout the meal.
- Supports servers and bartenders by running food and beverages with accuracy and care.
Maintains cleanliness and organization of the dining room, service stations, and back areas.
- Supports servers and bartenders by running food and beverages with accuracy and care.
- Polishes glassware, restocks service items, and removes trash as needed.
- Communicates clearly with the team to ensure alignment and a seamless guest experience.
Required Qualifications & Competencies
- 2+ years of experience in role
- Fine-dining or high-end restaurant experience preferred
- Curious and strong desire to learn about ingredients and preparations
- Excellent organizational, multitasking, and communication skills
- Ability to perform well under pressure while maintaining genuine hospitality
- Passion for food, beverage, and exceptional guest experiences
- California Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within required time frame)
Working Environment & Physical Requirements
- Stand and walk 6-7 hours per shift
- Lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds
- Ability to focus and multitask in a fast-paced, high-pressure dining environment
- Flexible schedule required, including nights, weekends, and holidays based on business needs and event operations
- Comfortable working in varying conditions, including noise, lighting, and temperature changes
- Navigate stairs, slick surfaces, and all kitchen areas safely
- Travel between San Francisco locations as needed
What We Offer
- Personalized structured career development plan and advancement opportunities
- A supportive, growth-oriented environment with structured professional development
- A culture rooted in craftsmanship, collaboration, and respect
- Consistent scheduling
- Family meal everyday you work
- Generous dining in discounts and retail-cost wine
- 401K matching after 6 months of employment
- Paid sick days
- Subsidized Health, Vision & Dental insurance
Maria Isabel’s Commitment to Equity & Inclusion
Maria Isabel is an equal-opportunity employer. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. We believe that diverse perspectives strengthen our team, enrich our hospitality, and deepen our connection to the community we serve.
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