O’Rourke Family Estate (OFE) is a 300-acre property with panoramic views of surrounding orchards, vineyards, rolling mountains, and the glistening water of Okanagan Lake. Inspired by Europe’s most famous wineries, the property features 110 acres of vines, 300 meters of winding tunnels, and 12,000 square feet of cave space to store and age wines.  In addition to OFE, the O’Rourke portfolio includes Peak Cellars. Located on a 7-acre property in Lake Country, and is home to our Goldie Road Vineyard. Wine isn’t the only thing the property produces; the half-acre organic vegetable garden and two greenhouses supply the highest quality fruits and vegetables for the Garden Bistro.

Role type:  Contract, full-time (minimum 30 hours/week with opportunity to move towards permanent contract)

Location: Lake Country, BC

Reports To: Maître D’ / Restaurant Manager

Role Scope: The server is a key ambassador of the Row 188 dining experience. They are responsible for delivering exceptional service, selling beverage and culinary products, and showcasing the O’Rourke Family Estate’s fine dining standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Guest Experience:

• Greet guests and enthusiastically represent our brand, providing service that goes above and beyond the expectations of our guests.
• Provide efficient and exceptional service to all of our guests.
• Make recommendations for wine and food pairings to enhance guest experience.
• Continually seek information about organizational menus, wines, and the Okanagan region to provide insights and share the Estate’s story.

Order Management:

• Accurately take food and beverage orders, clearly communicating special requests, allergies, and dietary restrictions to the kitchen via the expeditor.
• Maintain knowledge of order input POS system for both restaurant and retail sales as required.
• Monitor order timing and ensure prompt delivery of food items and beverages.

Service Excellence:

• Execute the service standards as set out by O’Rourke Family Estate.

• All open and closing duties as assigned.

• Maintain high standards of table service, including clearing, crumbing, and table resets efficiently and discreetly.
• Be attentive to guests' needs throughout their visit, including refilling drinks, addressing questions and concerns, and anticipating requests.
• Encourage guests to explore premium options with suggestive selling techniques.
• Promote estate products such as retail wine purchases or upcoming events.
• Work seamlessly with the kitchen, bar, and expeditor teams to ensure smooth and coordinated service.
• Maintain knowledge of O’Rourke Family Estate wines and cocktails, as well as seasonal and promotional offerings.
• Learn the daily menu, and be able to describe every element to the guests.

Health and Safety:

• Adhere to health and safety regulations and maintain a clean and organized workspace.
• Ensure proper handling of all food and beverages to meet fine dining standards set by O’Rourke Family Estate.
• Maintain a professional and clean personal appearance including arrival with all uniform requirements.

OUR IDEAL CANDIDATE:

• A passion for food, wine, and excellent customer service.
• Previous experience as a server in a fine dining or upscale restaurant setting.
• Dedicated to providing personalized and professional service to all guests, and to showcasing the local region and estate offerings.
• Able to withstand extended periods of standing, and other physically demanding conditions.
• Able to operate in a high-pressure environment and remain calm and focused in urgent situations.
• Strong knowledge of food, wine, and wine service (certifications such as WSET are an asset).
• Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with strong attention to detail service.
• Able to maintain a professional appearance and demeanor, aligning with dress code
• Holds a Serving it Right certification, and ensures responsible service of alcohol.

WORK CONDITIONS:

• Able to withstand extended periods of standing, and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Able to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, as well as overtime from time to time.

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS:

• On-site parking.
• Compensation: $17.40 per hour plus gratuities.
• Employee Perks & benefits program (discounts on food, wine, merch).
• Eligible to join the Hour-Bank Employee Health and Benefits program for Full-time employees (minimum 30 hours/week worked required).
• Accommodation may be available for the right candidate.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please email your resume and a cover letter to info@ofestate.com.

Visa Requirements:
To be eligible for employment at O’Rourke Family Estate, you must hold a valid working visa for Canada. We do not provide offer letters to applicants seeking a work visa. Applicants must have their work visa in place before applying.

O'Rourke Family Vineyards adheres to employment equity and equal opportunity programs and encourages all candidates to apply. We would like to thank all applicants for submitting their resume; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted.