Server Assistant
General information
Job duties
- Greet guests warmly as they enter
- Manage reservations and waitlists
- Seat guests according to table rotation and server sections
- Answer phones and provide basic information about the restaurant
- Maintain an organized and welcoming front entrance
- Deliver food from the kitchen to the correct tables quickly and accurately
- Ensure dishes match tickets and special requests
- Communicate with kitchen staff and servers about order status
- Describe dishes when placing them on the table
- Assist with clearing plates when appropriate
- Refill water and beverages
- Reset and bus tables efficiently
- Assist with side work (polishing silverware, stocking stations, etc.)
- Help maintain cleanliness in dining areas
- Step in to support servers during busy periods
- Package to go orders
- Run register
Housing
Details
Start Your American Summer at C&J’s Family Restaurant
Dreaming of an authentic American experience away from the crowded tourist hotspots? C&J’s Family Restaurant in Howard City, Michigan is looking for energetic, friendly university students to join their team as Server Assistants (Bussers) for the Summer to Fall season. This is your chance to work in a warm, family-run restaurant where you’ll be treated like part of the family from day one.
What You’ll Be Doing
As a Server Assistant, you’ll be the heartbeat of the dining room, keeping everything running smoothly so guests can enjoy their meals. Your daily responsibilities will include:
- Clearing, cleaning, and resetting tables quickly between guests
- Setting tables with clean cutlery, glassware, napkins, and condiments
- Refilling water glasses and assisting servers during busy meal rushes
- Delivering food and beverages to tables when needed
- Keeping the dining area, service stations, and floors clean and tidy
- Restocking supplies and assisting kitchen staff with dish handling
- Greeting guests with a smile and helping create a welcoming atmosphere
Compensation & Schedule
You’ll earn a solid $13.73 per hour working a full 40 hours per week. That’s a dependable, predictable income that lets you plan your travels, cover your living costs, and still save for that end-of-program road trip. Please note that this position does not include tips — your earnings come from your guaranteed hourly wage.
Discover Howard City & West Michigan
Howard City is a charming small town in Montcalm County, surrounded by the lakes, forests, and rolling countryside that make Michigan famous. Here’s what’s waiting for you:
- Lakes everywhere: Michigan has over 11,000 inland lakes — perfect for swimming, kayaking, fishing, and lazy summer afternoons
- Grand Rapids (45 min): Michigan’s second-largest city, packed with craft breweries, art museums, live music, and the world-famous ArtPrize festival
- Lake Michigan beaches (about 1 hour): Golden sand dunes and legendary sunsets on the Grand Haven and Muskegon shoreline
- Outdoor adventures: Hiking trails, the White Pine Trail, campgrounds, and state parks right on your doorstep
- Small-town friendliness: Genuine, welcoming locals who love meeting international students
Why This Job Is Great for Work & Travel Students
- Guaranteed 40 hours per week — reliable income all season long
- Fast-paced, team-oriented environment perfect for improving your English every single day
- Practical hospitality experience that looks fantastic on any CV
- Friendly family-business culture where your effort is noticed and appreciated
- Extended Summer to Fall season — enjoy Michigan’s beautiful autumn colors
- Meet students from around the world and build lifelong friendships
What We’re Looking For
- University students aged 18–25 with valid J-1 Work & Travel sponsorship
- Conversational English skills and a positive, outgoing attitude
- Ability to stand, walk, and lift trays for extended periods
- Reliability, punctuality, and strong teamwork spirit
- Willingness to work weekends, evenings, and holidays
- No previous experience required — full training is provided!
Ready to Apply?
Spots for the Summer to Fall season at C&J’s Family Restaurant fill up fast. If you’re ready to earn great money, sharpen your English, and experience the real America in beautiful West Michigan, apply today and start your Work & Travel USA adventure!
About Michigan
Michigan's Great Lakes shores, Mackinac Island and resort towns make for a classic lakeside summer. Students work in island hotels, resorts and restaurants surrounded by beaches and forests.
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