Darden Restaurants

The world’s largest full-service restaurant company, Darden owns and operates more than 1,900 restaurants across the globe. The family of Darden brands includes many of the most well-known and successful restaurant chains in the world, including: Red Lobster, Olive Garden, The Capital Grille, LongHorn Steakhouse, Seasons 52 and Bahama Breeze. The company began in 1968 with the opening of the first Red Lobster restaurant in Lakeland, Florida. Today, it has grown into a culinary empire, with more than 180,000 employees worldwide serving over 400 million meals annually! Darden was recently recognized by Fortune magazine as one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For in 2011, holding the distinction of being the first full-service restaurant company ever to be included on the list.

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Company Reviews

Why apply for a job at Darden? Find out from those who know firsthand – past and current employees!

• “Nice place to work, ideal work environment.” Darden Anonymous in Orlando, FL (Present Employee)

• “An amazing learning experience.” Darden Server in Waco, TX (Former Employee)

• “Fantastic place to work and leadership truly cares about the employees.” Darden Server in Hickory, NC (Present Employee)

• “The best job I’ve ever had. My co-workers were like family!” Darden Server (Former Employee)

• “Excellent company you’d be proud to work for.” Darden Senior Financial Analyst (Present Employee)

Positions

Darden currently operates more than 1,900 restaurants and employs more than 180,000 individuals worldwide. With many of the most recognizable restaurants in the country included in the Darden family, there are countless employment opportunities available! You can choose from an assortment of entry-level positions, including the following: Server, Host/Hostess, Bartender, Busser, Line Cook, Assistant Manager – and more. To view a full listing of positions, complete with specific job descriptions and skill requirements, visit Darden Careers. Darden also offers MBA Internships in the areas of Marketing and Finance.

Salaries

Annual salaries and hourly rates for Darden employees vary based upon store location and level of experience.

• Server: $2.00 – $12.00/hour
• Host/Hostess: $8.00 – $10.00/hour
• Bartender: $5.00 – $10.00/hour
• Busser: $6.00 – $15.00/hour
• Line Cook: $11.00 – $14.00/hour
• Assistant Manager: $30,000 – $50,000/year
• Manager: $32,000 – $120,000/year

Skill Requirements

With a myriad of entry-level positions offered by Darden, there is bound to be something to suit all types of skill sets. Each position comes with its own specific skill requirements; however, Darden does seek certain attributes when evaluating potential employees. You may be a good fit for Darden employment if you:

• Enjoy creating outstanding dining experiences for guests.
• Are able to multi-task and work in a fast-paced environment.
• Have a work ethic in keeping with Darden’s core values: Integrity and Fairness, Respect and Caring, Diversity, Always Learning, Being of Service, Teamwork and Excellence.

Interview Questions

Are you wondering what to expect during your upcoming Darden interview? Here are a few examples of questions previously asked during actual Darden job interviews.

• Provide an example of a stressful situation you experienced. How did you deal with it?
• Tell me about your future professional goals.
• What does hospitality mean to you?
• If hired, how long do you plan on working here?
• Describe a situation when you had to deal with an irate customer. How did you resolve the issue?
• Why do you want to work for Darden?
• Tell me about your favorite job experience and your least favorite job experience.
• What do you have to offer Darden that other candidates do not possess?
• Would you be willing to fill in for another position, such as dishwasher, if needed?

Benefits: Why Work At Darden Restaurants?

Are you looking to join a diverse workplace with countless opportunities for career growth? If so, Darden could be a good fit for you! Darden provides a competitive benefits package to eligible employees, including: Flexible Work Schedules, Health Insurance, Disability, Anniversary/Vacation Pay, Weekly Pay, Meal Discounts – and much more!

How to Apply to a Darden Job

Are you searching for the perfect place to start your career in the hospitality industry? Or maybe you’re in need of a part-time opportunity to earn a little extra holiday spending money this year. Whatever your motivation, as long as your passion is providing an unmatched dining experience, you will fit right in at Darden.

Check out the latest Darden job openings today!