Food and Beverage Resume: What Should You Include?

A strong food and beverage resume highlights more than just your work history, it also shows employers that you have the right mix of technical ability, customer service skills and formal training. 

Whether you’re stepping into hospitality for the first time or aiming for a management role, knowing what to include can help you stand out.

Crafting a strong food and beverage resume

Your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. In hospitality, that means showing you can handle the fast pace, maintain high standards and create a positive customer experience. 

A well-structured resume highlights not only where you have worked but also how your skills and training translate to real workplace results.

Standing out in Australia’s hospitality industry

The hospitality industry is one of Australia’s biggest employers, but it is also one of the most competitive. From cafés and restaurants to hotels and catering services, managers review dozens of applications for every open position.

A food and beverage resume that demonstrates both job-ready skills and recognised training puts you ahead of the pack.

Skills employers want to see on a food and beverage resume

Hiring managers look for candidates who can step into the vacant role with confidence. Highlighting practical skills is key, such as:

• Safe food handling and storage practices
• Operating coffee machines, bar equipment or service tools
• Knowledge of wines, cocktails and beverage service
• Using point of sale (POS) systems and managing cash
• Following cleaning and sanitising procedures
• Awareness of workplace health and safety

Tip: Instead of simply listing skills, show how you used them. For example, “Trained new staff in proper food storage methods” is more powerful than just “Knowledge of food storage.”

Soft skills that make a difference

Hospitality is people-driven. Employers value candidates who not only know their way around a kitchen or bar but can also create great guest experiences. Strong soft skills to include are:

• Clear communication with both customers and colleagues
• Staying calm under pressure during peak service periods
• Teamwork and reliability
• Problem-solving in fast-paced situations
• Professionalism and punctuality

Whenever possible, back these up with examples - such as handling a difficult customer, training junior staff or resolving service issues quickly.

Certifications that set you apart

Some certifications carry particular importance in Australia’s food and beverage industry:

• Food Handler certification: Anyone who handles food is considered a Food Handler and requires food safety training in accordance with the Food Standards Code
• Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) certification - Required by law for many businesses under Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) Standard 3.2.2A
• Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificate - Essential if you will be serving alcohol
• Allergen Management Training - Shows your employer you know how to prevent cross-contact and respond to allergen incidents
• Barista training - A must-have for most café roles
• First aid certification - Adds value for larger venues and event spaces

Requirements can vary between states and territories, so always check local regulations before applying. Looking for online certification? The Australian Institute of Food Safety (AIFS) offers training programs in food safety and alcohol service to help advance your career.

How to tailor your resume for the right role

A generic resume is unlikely to get you very far in the hospitality industry. Employers want to see that you have taken the time to match your application to their needs.

• Mirror the job advertisement: Use the same keywords and phrasing the employer lists
• Show measurable results: Add achievements like “increased upselling revenue by 20 per cent” or “reduced wait times during peak hours”
• Keep it clean and concise: One to two pages is usually enough
• Update regularly: Add new certifications, roles or achievements as soon as you earn them

Building a resume that works for you

A great food and beverage resume is more than a list of your previous jobs - it is proof that you can contribute to a safe, efficient and customer-focused workplace. 

By showcasing both technical know-how and the right certifications, you will give yourself the best chance of landing interviews and moving forward in your hospitality career.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Which certifications should I prioritise for my food and beverage resume?

A. Food Handler, Food Safety Supervisor (FSS) and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) are among the most important certifications for hospitality sector roles in Australia.

Q. Do casual jobs belong on a hospitality resume?

A. Yes. Even casual or part-time jobs show transferable skills like customer service and teamwork.

Q. How long should my resume be?

A. Aim for one to two pages, focusing on skills and experience relevant to hospitality.

Q. Can I get a hospitality job without previous experience?

A. Yes. Having an RSA, Food Handler or Food Safety Supervisor certification can help you stand out even if you’re new to the industry.

Q. How often should I update my resume?

A. Update it after every new role, certification or major achievement so you’re always ready to apply.