What Does a Restaurant Cashier Do?

Restaurant cashiers are the face of a restaurant. They interact with customers on a daily basis, helping them to order food and drinks, taking their payment, and ensuring that they have a positive experience while in the establishment.

As such, they need to be friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about the menu items and other offerings at the restaurant. They may also be responsible for keeping track of inventory or other tasks related to running a successful business.

Restaurant Cashier Job Duties

A restaurant cashier typically has a wide range of responsibilities, which can include:

• Performing basic math calculations such as adding up bills or calculating the change due on a purchase
• Taking orders from customers who have placed their orders with the wait staff
• Handling cash transactions accurately and efficiently at a cash register or POS system
• Processing credit card payments by entering transactions into a computer system or swiping cards through a point of sale (POS) terminal
• Handling customer complaints or questions regarding menu items, specials, or prices
• Accepting payment from customers in cash or by credit card (in some cases)
• Collecting payment for checks placed through a check service or ATM machine
• Requesting identification from diners when they pay with a credit card to ensure that they are over the age of 21
• Stocking bar supplies, including liquor, glassware, mixers, and ice buckets, to prepare for serving customers

Restaurant Cashier Salary & Outlook

Restaurant cashiers are typically paid an hourly wage, which can vary depending on the restaurant’s location and size, their level of experience, and the state in which they work.

• Median Annual Salary: $22,657 ($10.89/hour)
• Top 10% Annual Salary: $42,000 ($20.19/hour)

The employment of restaurant cashiers is expected to decline over the next decade.

Employment growth will be limited because many establishments are automating cashier functions. Self-service checkout systems allow customers to pay for their purchases without interacting with a cashier. Some establishments also are installing electronic ordering and payment systems, which allow customers to pay without interacting with a cashier.

Related: Restaurant Cashier Interview Questions and Answers

Restaurant Cashier Job Requirements

A restaurant cashier may need to meet the following requirements:

Education: Cashiers are typically required to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent. Some employers may prefer candidates who have completed a post-secondary program. Taking courses in math, bookkeeping and business administration can help cashiers gain the skills they need to succeed in their role.

Training & Experience: Restaurant cashiers typically receive on-the-job training from their supervisors or managers. This training may include cash handling, customer service and other aspects of the job. Training may last for a few days or a few weeks, depending on the establishment.

Certifications & Licenses: Certifications are not generally required for this role. However, certification can give you a competitive edge over other candidates and demonstrate your dedication and ambition.

Restaurant Cashier Skills

Restaurant cashiers need the following skills in order to be successful:

Attention to detail: Attention to detail is a skill that can help you be a better cashier. It’s important to be able to notice if a customer paid for an item or not, and to make sure the right amount of change is given to them. It’s also important to make sure the customer’s order is correct and that they get the right food.

Cash handling: Cash handling is the ability to count and handle money accurately. Cashiers need to be able to count money accurately to ensure they give the correct change to customers. Handling cash accurately also ensures that the restaurant has the correct amount of money in their cash register.

Customer service: Customer service is the ability to interact with customers in a friendly and helpful manner. As a restaurant cashier, you’ll be the first person customers interact with when they enter the restaurant. It’s important to be friendly and welcoming to all customers. You should also be able to answer any questions customers may have about the menu or the restaurant’s policies.

Multitasking: The ability to multitask is a valuable skill for a restaurant cashier. You may be responsible for taking orders, processing payments, handling customer complaints and operating the cash register. Being able to perform all of these tasks simultaneously can help you complete your job duties efficiently.

Product knowledge: As a restaurant cashier, you should be knowledgeable about the products and services your company offers. This can help you answer customer questions and provide them with the information they need to make a purchase. You should also be familiar with the restaurant’s menu and able to answer questions about the ingredients in the food and drinks you sell.

Restaurant Cashier Work Environment

Most restaurant cashiers work in fast food restaurants. They typically work the same hours as the restaurant, which means they may work early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays. The work is fast-paced and can be stressful, especially during busy times. Cashiers must be able to handle customer complaints and demands, as well as work well under pressure. They must also be able to stand for long periods of time and lift heavy objects, such as cases of soda or bags of ice.

Restaurant Cashier Trends

Here are three trends influencing how restaurant cashiers work. Restaurant cashiers will need to stay up-to-date on these developments to keep their skills relevant and maintain a competitive advantage in the workplace.

More Focus on Customer Experience

As restaurants focus more on customer experience, cashiers will need to be prepared to provide excellent service. This includes being able to handle difficult customers and providing recommendations for menu items.

In order to be successful in this environment, cashiers will need to be well-versed in the menu and knowledgeable about the restaurant’s offerings. They will also need to be able to handle difficult situations with professionalism and grace.

More Use of Technology

The use of technology in restaurants is increasing as businesses look for ways to improve efficiency and reduce costs. This trend is leading to an increased demand for cashiers who are familiar with using technology in their jobs.

Cashiers can utilize technology in a number of ways, such as by using electronic scanners to track inventory or by using mobile apps to take orders. In addition, they can use technology to connect with customers and build relationships through social media.

Customer Demands for Better Service

Customers are increasingly demanding better service from restaurants, which is putting pressure on cashiers to provide quick and accurate transactions.

To meet these demands, cashiers need to be efficient and accurate in their work. They also need to be able to communicate effectively with customers and understand their needs. Additionally, cashiers should be aware of current promotions and deals that may entice customers to dine at the restaurant.

How to Become a Restaurant Cashier

A career as a restaurant cashier can be a great way to get started in the food service industry. It’s a entry-level job that offers opportunities for growth and learning. As you progress in your career, you may want to move up the ranks and become a manager or supervisor. You could also move into other areas of the food service industry, such as catering or cooking.

No matter what stage of your career you’re at, it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the food service industry. Read food blogs and magazines, watch cooking shows, and try new recipes at home. This will help you keep your skills sharp and ensure that you’re providing excellent customer service every day.

Advancement Prospects

There are several ways to advance your career as a restaurant cashier. One of the best ways is to get more experience. As you gain more experience, you will become more efficient and knowledgeable about the restaurant business. This will make you more valuable to your employer and could lead to a promotion to a management position.

Another way to advance your career is to get more education. Many restaurant cashiers start out with a high school diploma or equivalent. However, if you have the opportunity to get a college degree, this could make you more attractive to employers and could lead to a higher-paying position.

Finally, it is always a good idea to network with other restaurant professionals. Getting to know other people in the industry can help you learn about new job opportunities and can also help you make connections that can lead to a new job.

Restaurant Cashier Job Description Example

At [CompanyX], we provide our customers with a unique and memorable dining experience. We’re looking for a restaurant cashier who can help us create this experience with their exceptional customer service skills. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a fast-paced environment and will be able to handle multiple tasks at once while maintaining a positive attitude. He or she will be responsible for greeting customers, taking orders, processing payments, and answering any questions they may have. The restaurant cashier will be the face of our business, so it is essential that they are professional and courteous at all times.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Greet customers as they enter the restaurant and take their orders promptly
• Operate the cash register, handle customer payments, and provide change as needed
• Keep track of the restaurant’s daily sales and report any discrepancies to the manager on duty
• Help maintain a clean and organized work area, including sweeping and mopping the floor as needed
• Assist in stocking the front of the house with supplies such as utensils, napkins, and straws
• Prepare simple food items such as coffee and tea upon request
• Answer the phone and take accurate orders from customers
• Process customer orders in the POS system and package them for pick-up or delivery
• Handle customer complaints in a professional and courteous manner
• Balance the cash drawer at the end of each shift and report any shortages to the manager
• Follow all safety and sanitation guidelines when handling food and beverage items
• Perform opening and closing duties as assigned

Required Skills and Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Proven experience as cashier or in customer service
• Basic math skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Friendly and polite demeanor
• Ability to stand for long periods of time

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

• Some college coursework preferred
• Previous experience working in a restaurant
• Familiarity with POS systems
• Cash-handling certification
• Bilingual