The requirements for getting a job as a food expediter can differ considerably from restaurant to restaurant. In some establishments, this job may be considered an entry-level position. In others, managers or high-level kitchen staff may play the role of expeditor. There are no specific educational requirements to become a food expeditor, though it may help for an applicant to have some education in hospitality, communication, and food preparation. Experience in the food industry will also help a person become a food expeditor.
In many restaurants, the role of food expeditor is an entry-level position, and the only thing a person needs to do in order to become a food expeditor is to apply for the job when there is an opening. Having good references and a strong resume, whether it highlights academic achievements and volunteer work or a strong employment history, can help an applicant to land one of these jobs. In some places, especially at high-end establishments, restaurant experience may also be required.
Other restaurants may assign managers to the role of food expeditor. In order to become a food expeditor in one of these places, an applicant will need extensive restaurant experience, often in food service, food preparation, and restaurant management because the expeditor may be involved in all of these tasks. Though restaurant managers do not need to have a college education, a degree in hospitality or a related field can be instrumental if a person hopes to become a food expeditor at a high-end restaurant.
Chefs and cooks may also work as food expeditors. In most cases, a chef who works as a food expeditor is one of the higher-level chefs in the restaurant since this position requires extensive knowledge of all the dishes the restaurant serves. A chef who wants to become a food expeditor can study at a culinary school and gain experience as a prep cook or line cook. Education and experience will help a chef land a high-level position in a restaurant, though talent is also a factor in getting such a job.
In some parts of the world, it may also be necessary to get a license in order to become a food expeditor. These licenses grant people the right to handle prepared food and are relatively easy to obtain, requiring only a small fee and a passing score on a food safety test. People may be hired before obtaining one of these licenses or they may need to have them in hand before being hired as food expeditors.