Counter Personnel

ABOUT MERA

MERA is a family-owned, multinational food and beverage company specializing in non-traditional venues, including airports and cruise ports. As an operator, concept developer, franchise partner, strategic ally, and restaurant owner, MERA welcomes more than 200 million guests annually across five countries, two cruise ports, and 18 airport terminals through more than 53 brands and 200 units—and we continue to grow.

POSITION SUMMARY

Counter Personnel provide friendly, efficient service to airport guests by taking orders, processing payments, preparing assigned menu items, and maintaining a clean, well-stocked service area. This position works closely with the front-of-house and culinary teams to deliver accurate orders and a consistent guest experience while following MERA and brand standards.

Reports to the FOH Manager or General Manager. Supports assigned units and performs other related duties as assigned.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

· Greet guests promptly, explain menu items and promotions, answer questions, and suggest additional items when appropriate.

· Enter orders accurately in the point-of-sale system, confirm modifications, and communicate special requests to the kitchen.

· Receive cash and electronic payments, provide accurate change and receipts, and follow cash handling procedures. Report discrepancies to management.

· Prepare, portion, package, and serve assigned food and beverage items according to recipes, presentation standards, and authorized station training.

· Verify order accuracy and quality before handing items to guests; coordinate with coworkers to keep service moving during busy periods.

· Communicate allergy concerns to management and the culinary team and follow established procedures before serving the order.

· Address routine guest concerns courteously. Refer all refund requests, complaints requiring escalation, and exceptions to a manager.

· Restock food, beverages, packaging, utensils, and condiments; rotate products, check expiration dates, and report shortages or waste.

· Clean and sanitize counters, service equipment, dining areas, and assigned stations; complete opening, shift change, and closing checklists.

· Follow food safety, personal hygiene, uniform, timekeeping, and airport security procedures. Report hazards, equipment issues, and incidents promptly.

EDUCATION

· High school diploma or equivalent preferred.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

· Ability to communicate clearly with guests and coworkers and follow written and verbal instructions.

· Basic math skills and attention to detail for order entry, payments, and cash handling.

· Ability to work efficiently in a busy environment while maintaining a professional and courteous manner.

· Dependable attendance, punctuality, and the ability to work assigned shifts, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled.

· Ability to obtain and maintain the required Port Authority airport identification badge and complete applicable security and onboarding requirements.

· Willingness to complete required food safety, brand, and equipment training.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

· Previous experience in food service, quick-service restaurants, retail, or another customer service setting.

· Experience with point-of-sale systems, cash handling, and order fulfillment.

· Experience preparing beverages or basic food items and following food safety procedures.

· Experience serving a diverse customer base; additional language skills are welcome.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

· Work in a busy airport food service environment with noise, changing temperatures, and periods of high guest volume.

· Stand and walk for extended periods; reach, bend, handle food and supplies, and move stocked items using safe handling practices.

· Ability to perform the essential duties of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation.

SCHEDULE REQUIREMENTS

Candidates must be available to work a flexible schedule that may include early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays based on operational needs.