The Waiter/Waitress is primarily responsible to provide fast, efficient and polite food and beverage service to the satisfaction of the guest in accordance with lodge’s standards and procedures.

Job Summary

Employer: CHobe Game Lodge
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Gaborone, Botswana
Category: Hospitality
Closing Date: 2026-10-04

Key Responsibilities

Prepare all food and beverage outlets, including all necessary mise-n-place. Serve guests in a professional, efficient and courteous manner.
Clean F and B outlets and keep high standard of hygiene.
Change table linen (placemats/serviettes) as required and ensure dirty or damaged linen is counted and exchanged for clean usable ones.
Must have a thorough knowledge of all the Restaurant Menus, Beverage and Wine List.
Must notify Food and Beverage supervisor immediately of any guest complaints and take corrective action where possible.
Must liaise with the F and B supervisor regarding any special items available or any possible items that may be out of stock.
Attend pre-service briefings. Ensure that mealtimes are taken at prescribed times. Double check orders before placing them.
Control loss, abuse and breakage of operating equipment and ensure all equipment is correctly handled and stored. Report any breakages to the supervisor or follow breakage procedure in place.
Circulate regularly throughout the dining area, maintaining a high profile with guests, ensuring that guests do not wait for service.
Ensure that all side stations storerooms are correctly stocked and always clean. Maintain effective communication with guests/team members and management.

Requirements

Formal qualifications in Hospitality and Tourism, Hotel Management i.e. a Certificate, Diploma, Degree or an equivalent qualification.
At least 3 to 5 years’ work-experience in a 4- or 5-star hospitality environment, internationally and nationally.
Active listening skills, good memory, sales skills, training skills, ability to multi-task, Operational knowledge, decision making, strong organisational and planning, Problem solving skills, good customer service skills, strong communication and people’s skills, ability to work under pressure and pay attention to details.
Be fully computer literate – good working knowledge of the Microsoft Productivity Tools, inter alia Outlook, Word, Excel and Planner, Ulti-sales and pastel.

How to Apply

Apply by email: info@chobegamelodge.com

About the Company

Chobe Game Lodge operates within Chobe National Park in northern Botswana, situated on the banks of the Chobe River. Established in 1972, it holds distinction as the country's first permanent safari lodge and remains the only property located inside the park boundaries. The lodge employs an all-female guiding team, a notable initiative in Botswana's male-dominated safari industry. It offers game drives and boat safaris focused on the region's substantial elephant population, alongside lion, leopard, and buffalo sightings. The property is managed by Desert & Delta Safaris, a Botswana-based hospitality group, and maintains eco-certification through its solar power systems and water treatment facilities.

Botswana's first eco-lodge, pioneering sustainable safari experiences.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications or education do I need to become a waiter/waitress at a lodge in Botswana?

A Junior Certificate or Botswana General Certificate of Secondary Education is typically preferred, though not always mandatory. Employers value prior hospitality experience and may require a food handling certificate from the Botswana Bureau of Standards. Strong English communication skills are essential, and knowledge of additional languages like Setswana or international languages is advantageous in tourism.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a waiter/waitress at a game lodge?

Duties include setting tables, taking orders, serving meals and beverages, and clearing dishes in dining areas and for bush dinners. You will also brief guests on menu items, accommodate dietary restrictions, and maintain cleanliness standards. Shift work is common, including early breakfasts and late dinners to align with game drive schedules.

What is the work culture like for hospitality staff in Botswana's lodge industry?

The culture emphasizes respect, teamwork, and exceptional guest service in a multicultural environment. Punctuality and professional appearance are strictly expected, with uniforms usually provided. Staff often live on-site in shared accommodation, requiring adaptability and strong interpersonal skills.

What benefits can I expect as a full-time waiter/waitress in Botswana's hospitality sector?

Benefits typically include paid annual leave as prescribed by Botswana labour law, and some employers offer medical aid or assistance with registration. Meals and on-site accommodation are commonly provided at remote lodges. Pension contributions through the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund or private schemes may be offered depending on the employer.

How can I advance my career from a waiter/waitress position in Botswana?

Progression often leads to senior waiter, restaurant supervisor, or food and beverage manager roles with experience and demonstrated leadership. Pursuing hospitality diplomas through institutions like the Botswana Hotel and Tourism Training Institute or international certifications can accelerate advancement. Some professionals transition to lodge management or specialized roles such as sommelier with targeted training.

How should I apply for waiter/waitress positions, and what do Botswana employers look for?

Submit a concise CV highlighting customer service experience and references from previous employers, either online or in person. Employers prioritize reliability, positive attitude, and genuine interest in hospitality over extensive experience. Prepare for practical assessments and be ready to demonstrate communication skills during interviews.