About Us
Built in 1854 to "take the guest's breath away," Great Southern Killarney remains one of Ireland's most iconic hotels, where Victorian splendour meets modern elegance. Set amid six acres of landscaped gardens in the heart of Killarney, our legacy is rooted in warmth, exceptional service, and genuine Irish hospitality.
We are now delighted to expand that legacy with Arbour, our beautifully designed new restaurant, inspired by the natural surrounds of the National Park and dedicated to elevating modern Irish cuisine.
To help bring this exciting new dining experience to life, we are seeking a passionate, energetic, and experienced Food & Beverage Assistant to join our growing team. This role will be primarily focused on dinner service, with occasional requirements at other times based on business needs.
About the Role
As a Food & Beverage Assistant in Arbour, you will play a key role in delivering an unforgettable dining experience. From greeting guests with genuine warmth to serving dishes and drinks with precision and confidence, your service will help define the restaurant's identity.
If you thrive in a fast-paced, refined service environment, love working as part of a dynamic team, and take pride in creating moments of delight for guests, this role offers you the opportunity to shine.
Key Responsibilities
* Welcome guests with professionalism, charm, and a genuine passion for hospitality.
* Provide polished, efficient service during dinner operations—including taking orders, serving food and beverages, and anticipating guest needs.
* Maintain deep knowledge of menu items, wines, and cocktails to confidently guide and elevate the guest experience.
* Prepare and serve beverages in accordance with 4* / 5* standards.
* Ensure all service areas, tables, and stations are impeccably clean, organised, and fully stocked.
* Support your teammates during busy service, demonstrating strong communication and awareness.
* Follow all SOPs to ensure consistency, accuracy, and excellence in every guest interaction.
* Assist with opening and closing procedures for the restaurant.
* Communicate special requests, dietary needs, and guest preferences to the kitchen and management team.
* Handle payments, billing, and POS transactions accurately and professionally.
* Contribute to creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that reflects the character of Arbour and Great Southern Killarney.
* Support other Food & Beverage outlets across the hotel when required.
What You Bring
* Strong previous experience in a similar Food & Beverage role within a 4* or 5* environment.
* A natural passion for delivering exceptional service and creating memorable guest moments.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills across diverse teams and guests.
* Friendly, energetic, confident, and impeccably presented.
* Fluent English, both written and verbal.
* Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining grace, speed, and attention to detail.
* Strong knowledge of food, wine, and cocktails—or a keen willingness to learn.
* A solutions-focused, flexible, team-oriented approach.
* Pride in your work and a commitment to the highest standards of hospitality.
Why You'll Love Working With Us
* Training & development opportunities to grow your skills and career.
* Cross-departmental learning within the Hayfield Family Collection.
* Long-service recognition and monthly/annual staff awards.
* Monthly appreciation events, summer BBQs & festive celebrations.
* Discounted staff rates across the Hayfield Family Collection.
* Discounted dining for you and your family in our Food & Beverage outlets.
* Access to our leisure centre and gym at significantly reduced rates.
* Heavily discounted staff parking (€10 per year).
* Free staff meals while on duty.
* Free uniforms provided.
* Employee Assistance Programme offering free counselling services.
Our Culture
At Great Southern Killarney, we believe that true hospitality begins with our people.
Our values guide everything we do:
* Grow Together: We support and invest in the development of every team member.
* Our Family Tree: Strong roots, strong connections—our team culture is the foundation of our success.
* Social Responsibility: We care deeply about our community and environment.
* Genuine Hospitality: Delivered with sincerity, warmth, and authenticity.
* Diversity & Inclusion: We welcome and celebrate individuality.
Across every department, every service, and every day—we trust one another, and we believe in what we do.
Join Our Family
If you are passionate about exceptional dining service, thrive in a vibrant and elegant restaurant environment, and want to play a key role in the launch of Arbour at Great Southern Killarney, we would love to hear from you.
To Apply
Please submit your detailed CV to Caoimhe Spillane (HR Manager).
Please note: Candidates must hold an Irish or European passport, as work permits cannot be issued for this position.
If you do not hear from us within two to three weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Job Types:
Full-time, Permanent
Work Authorisation:
Ireland (required)
Great Southern Killarney & the Hayfield Family Collection are proud to be equal opportunities employers.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
* Bike to work scheme
* Company events
* Employee discount
* On-site gym
* On-site parking
Work Location: In person
Reference ID: F&B Assistant