Also called: expo, kitchen expeditor
What a expeditor does
The expeditor stands at the pass and controls the flow of food from the kitchen to the floor. You read tickets, call orders to the line, check each plate for accuracy and presentation, and make sure every dish for a table goes out together and hot. You also communicate with servers about delays, substitutions, and allergies. Expo is a communication job as much as a food job. A good expeditor keeps the kitchen calm and gives servers confidence that tables will be handled.
Responsibilities
- Read incoming tickets and call orders to the line in a clear, consistent way
- Coordinate timing so all items for a table are ready together
- Check each plate for accuracy, temperature, portion, and presentation before it leaves the pass
- Wipe plate rims and add garnishes or finishing touches as needed
- Communicate with servers about order status, delays, and 86'd items
- Track allergy notes and modifications and confirm they were followed
- Manage the ticket rail or kitchen display to keep orders organized
- Support the line by jumping on a station when needed during a push
- Keep the pass clean, stocked with garnishes, plates, and sauces
- Handle remakes and communicate reasons to the chef or sous chef
Requirements
- Experience as a line cook, server, or food runner is preferred
- Strong communication skills and a clear, calm voice
- Knowledge of the menu, ingredients, and plating specs
- Food handler card or ServSafe Food Handler certification is often required
- Ability to stand and move quickly for a full shift
- Availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays
Skills
- Ticket control and timing
- Clear verbal communication
- Menu knowledge
- Attention to plate quality
- Staying calm under pressure
- Allergy tracking
- Working with both kitchen and front of house
Schedule
Expeditors typically work dinner and weekend shifts, where volume is highest, and they often come in early to set up the pass.
Expeditor job posting template
Copy this, replace the bracketed parts, and post it.
Expeditor - [Restaurant Name], [City] [Restaurant Name] in [City] is hiring an Expeditor to run our pass. You will be the final check on every plate and the link between our kitchen and our servers. What you will do: - Call tickets to the line and manage the timing of each order - Inspect plates for quality and accuracy before they go out - Communicate with servers and managers about delays and special requests - Keep the pass clean and stocked - Support the line during busy moments What we are looking for: - Experience as a line cook, runner, or server preferred - A clear voice and strong communication skills - A good eye for plating and detail - Food handler certification (or willingness to get it) - Availability for [Shift], including weekends What we offer: - [$XX-$XX/hr] plus [tip share if applicable] - Staff meal and [benefits] - Cross-training on the line - A path toward sous chef or kitchen leadership To apply, send your resume to [email] or stop by [Address].
Hiring in Greater Boston? Post it on the Servestack jobs board for free: a human reviews every listing, real pay ranges are required, and applications go straight to your inbox.