Waiter or waitress CV Germany. How to write a CV for a waiter or waitress in Germany?
Working as a waiter or waitress in Germany is a great opportunity for individuals who enjoy interacting with people, providing excellent service, and working in fast-paced environments. This role involves serving food and beverages, ensuring customer satisfaction, and maintaining a clean and welcoming dining atmosphere. Whether in restaurants, hotels, cafés, or catering services, skilled waitstaff are always in demand across Germany's vibrant hospitality industry. With growing tourism and a multicultural food scene, many international jobseekers find rewarding employment opportunities in this field.
What you will find in this article:
Editable Word CV templates – free download for English and German job applications in Germany.
Planning to work as a waiter or waitress in Germany? Whether you're just starting out in hospitality or have years of experience in food service, having a clear and well-organized CV is crucial. If English is your primary language, it’s highly recommended to prepare two versions of your CV: one in English to highlight your background and strengths, and one in German to align with local hiring standards. This approach demonstrates your motivation, flexibility, and readiness to adapt to the German working environment.
This guide was created for people searching for: Waiter/Waitress CV for Germany. German resume format for hospitality jobs. How to write a professional waiter CV in Germany (English + German versions).
English version of the CV – Resume for the position of Waiter / Waitress
Personal Information:
Name: [Your Name]
Date of Birth: [DD.MM.YYYY]
Address: [Your Address]
Phone Number: [Your Phone Number]
E-Mail: [Your Email Address]
Professional Summary:
Dedicated and customer-focused waiter/waitress with over 5 years of experience in high-paced restaurants and cafés. Skilled in delivering excellent table service, handling orders efficiently, and ensuring a welcoming atmosphere for guests. Known for professionalism, multitasking abilities, and a team-oriented attitude.
Work Experience:
[Bistro am Markt] – Berlin, Germany
Position: Waitress
01.2021 – Present
- Welcomed guests, presented menus, and provided recommendations based on customer preferences.
- Took orders accurately and communicated them to the kitchen using digital POS systems.
- Served food and beverages efficiently, ensuring guest satisfaction throughout the visit.
- Handled billing, payments, and issued invoices.
- Maintained cleanliness and order in the dining area according to hygiene regulations.
- Resolved guest concerns or complaints professionally and promptly.
- Assisted with daily restaurant opening and closing tasks.
- Cooperated closely with kitchen and bar staff to ensure smooth service flow.
[Café Solano] – Madrid, Spain
Position: Waiter
05.2017 – 12.2020
- Provided fast and friendly table service during busy shifts, including breakfast and lunch hours.
- Prepared simple beverages such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks.
- Managed reservations and organized seating arrangements.
- Promoted special offers and upsold menu items to increase daily revenue.
- Ensured compliance with food safety and allergen awareness protocols.
Education:
Vocational Hospitality School – Madrid, Spain
Degree: Certificate in Food & Beverage Service
09.2014 – 06.2016
Certifications and Licenses:
- Food Handling & Hygiene Certificate (valid in Germany)
- Cash Register Operation & POS Systems Training
- Barista Basics & Beverage Service Course
- Customer Service and Conflict Resolution Workshop
Languages:
- German: Intermediate (B1)
- English: Advanced
- Spanish: Native
Skills and Strengths:
- Excellent customer service and communication skills
- Experience with cash handling and modern POS systems
- Knowledge of German dining etiquette and restaurant workflow
- Fast learner and ability to work under pressure
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
- Team player with a proactive attitude
- Flexible with working hours, including weekends and holidays
- Friendly, professional, and approachable manner
References:
Available upon request.
German version of the CV – Resume for the position of Waiter / Waitress
Persönliche Daten:
Name: [Ihr Name]
Geburtsdatum: [DD.MM.YYYY]
Adresse: [Ihre Adresse]
Telefonnummer: [Ihre Telefonnummer]
E-Mail: [Ihre E-Mail-Adresse]
Berufliches Profil:
Engagierte/r und serviceorientierte/r Kellner/in mit über 5 Jahren Erfahrung in der Gastronomie. Umfangreiche Kenntnisse im Bereich Gästebetreuung, Speisen- und Getränkeservice sowie im Umgang mit Kassensystemen. Freundlich, stressresistent und teamfähig – stets bestrebt, Gästen ein positives Restauranterlebnis zu bieten.
Berufserfahrung:
[Bistro am Platz] – Berlin, Deutschland
Position: Kellnerin
01.2021 – aktuell
- Begrüßung der Gäste und Beratung bei der Speisen- und Getränkeauswahl.
- Aufnahme und Weiterleitung von Bestellungen über ein digitales Kassensystem.
- Servieren von Speisen und Getränken mit einem hohen Maß an Aufmerksamkeit.
- Abrechnung und Kassieren am Tisch sowie Ausstellung von Rechnungen.
- Sicherstellung der Sauberkeit im Gastraum gemäß Hygienevorschriften.
- Bearbeitung von Reklamationen in professioneller Weise.
- Mitarbeit bei der täglichen Vorbereitung und dem Schließen des Restaurants.
- Enge Zusammenarbeit mit Küche und Bar zur Optimierung des Serviceablaufs.
[Café Solano] – Madrid, Spanien
Position: Kellner
05.2017 – 12.2020
- Schneller und freundlicher Service in einem belebten Tagescafé.
- Zubereitung von Heißgetränken und alkoholfreien Getränken.
- Empfang von Gästen und Koordination der Sitzplätze.
- Verkauf von Tagesangeboten und Empfehlungen zur Umsatzsteigerung.
- Einhaltung von Hygiene- und Sicherheitsvorschriften in der Gastronomie.
Ausbildung:
Fachschule für Gastronomie – Madrid, Spanien
Abschluss: Fachkraft im Gastgewerbe
09.2014 – 06.2016
Zertifikate und Lizenzen:
- Hygieneschulung nach § 43 IfSG (Infektionsschutzgesetz)
- Schulung im Umgang mit Kassensystemen
- Barista-Grundkurs
- Schulung in Kundenkommunikation und Konfliktlösung
Sprachkenntnisse:
- Deutsch: Mittelstufe (B1)
- Englisch: Fortgeschritten
- Spanisch: Muttersprache
Fähigkeiten und Stärken:
- Ausgeprägte Service- und Kundenorientierung
- Sicherer Umgang mit Kassensystemen und Bestellsoftware
- Gute Kenntnisse im deutschen Gastronomiestandard
- Belastbarkeit und effizientes Arbeiten in Stoßzeiten
- Teamfähigkeit und hohe Motivation
- Flexibilität bei Arbeitszeiten (Abende/Wochenenden)
- Freundliches und professionelles Auftreten
- Zuverlässigkeit und Verantwortungsbewusstsein
Referenzen:
Auf Anfrage erhältlich.
What Does a Waiter or Waitress Do in Germany?
Working as a waiter or waitress in Germany is a respected and essential role within the hospitality and gastronomy industry. Restaurants, cafés, hotels, and catering companies rely on attentive, customer-focused staff to deliver excellent service and enhance the guest experience. With Germany's thriving tourism sector and vibrant culinary scene, qualified waitstaff are consistently in demand.
The job requires strong communication skills, efficiency, and the ability to work well under pressure. Whether in fine dining or casual service, waiters and waitresses are key players in the smooth operation of any establishment.
Daily Responsibilities of a Waiter / Waitress
The typical duties of a waiter or waitress in Germany may vary depending on the type of restaurant or café, but usually include:- Welcoming Guests – Greeting customers in a friendly and professional manner, assigning tables, and offering menus.
- Taking Orders – Accurately recording food and beverage orders and entering them into the POS (point of sale) system.
- Serving Food and Drinks – Delivering meals and drinks efficiently, checking on guests’ satisfaction throughout the meal.
- Handling Payments – Processing bills, accepting payments, and issuing receipts.
- Cleaning and Setting Up – Preparing tables, polishing cutlery, and maintaining cleanliness according to hygiene regulations.
- Collaborating with Kitchen Staff – Coordinating with chefs and bartenders to ensure smooth service flow and timely delivery.
Working Conditions and Expectations
Waiters and waitresses in Germany work in diverse hospitality settings. Key features of the job include:
- Workplaces – Restaurants, hotels, cafés, catering companies, or event venues.
- Work Hours – Commonly involve shifts, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays; full-time and part-time roles are available.
- Physical Demands – Standing for long periods, carrying trays, and working in fast-paced environments.
- Uniform Requirements – Many establishments require a uniform or dress code for professional appearance.
- Customer Interaction – A key part of the role involves direct contact with guests and requires patience and politeness.
Requirements to Become a Waiter / Waitress in Germany
To work as a waiter or waitress in Germany, applicants typically need the following:
- Basic Qualifications – Formal education is not always required, but experience in hospitality or vocational training in gastronomy is a plus.
- German Language Skills – A minimum A2–B1 level of German is usually expected for clear communication with guests and coworkers.
- Customer Service Skills – Politeness, a friendly attitude, and multitasking ability are essential.
- Work Permit (for Non-EU Citizens) – Legal authorization to work in Germany is mandatory for third-country nationals.
- Hygiene Training – Completion of a health and hygiene course may be required, especially in food-handling roles.
Salary and Benefits
Salaries for waiters and waitresses in Germany depend on experience, employer type, and location:
- Entry-Level Salary – Starting from €1,900 to €2,300 gross per month.
- Experienced Waitstaff – Can earn up to €2,800 or more, especially in high-end restaurants or hotels.
- Tips – A significant portion of earnings can come from tips, which vary depending on customer volume and service level.
- Additional Benefits – Paid vacation, sick leave, pension contributions, and sometimes staff meals or accommodation are included.
- Flexible Employment – Many roles offer part-time contracts, making the job accessible for students or second-job seekers.
Pros and Cons of Being a Waiter / Waitress in Germany
Pros:
- High Demand – Many job openings across the country, especially in cities and tourist regions.
- Opportunity for Tips – Tips can significantly increase monthly income.
- Social and Dynamic Work – Interaction with different people daily in a lively environment.
- Low Entry Barrier – Suitable even for those without formal education or fluent German at the beginning.
Cons:
- Irregular Hours – Evening and weekend shifts may be challenging for work-life balance.
- Physically Demanding – Long hours on foot and carrying heavy trays can be tiring.
- Stressful at Times – High pace, especially during peak hours, requires strong stress management.
- Limited Advancement – Career growth may be slow without additional qualifications or specialization.
