Hiring the right team can make or break a restaurant. Whether you’re running a new café or managing a chain, finding skilled staff takes time and effort. Many owners turn to a restaurant recruiter to expedite the process. These recruiters know the industry and help you find candidates quickly. But how much does it really cost to hire one? Let’s break it down in simple terms.

What Does a Restaurant Recruiter Do?

A restaurant recruiter assists restaurants in hiring cooks, managers, servers, and other staff. They know where to find skilled workers and understand what each role needs. Instead of posting jobs and waiting, they go out and find people who match their needs. They also save time by screening applicants, arranging interviews, and even assisting with job offers.

Typical Fees for Hiring a Restaurant Recruiter

Most recruiters charge a fee based on the new hire’s salary. This fee is often between 15% and 25% of the person’s annual pay.

For example:

• If you hire a restaurant manager with a $50,000 salary,
• The recruiter’s fee could be $7,500 to $12,500.

Some recruiters use a flat fee, especially for junior roles. This fee might range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the job and location. In most cases, you only pay if the recruiter finds the right person and you hire them.

What Affects the Cost?

Several things can impact the price:

• Type of Role: Hiring for higher roles is more expensive. Finding a head chef takes more effort than hiring a waiter.
• Location: Fees may be higher in big cities like New York or San Francisco.
• Timeframe: If you need to fill the position quickly, the fee may increase.
• Agency Model: Some recruiters request a portion of the fee upfront. These are called retained recruiters. Others work only when a hire is made, a type of recruiter known as contingency recruiters.

Other Costs to Think About

Hiring doesn’t stop with recruiter fees. You may also pay for:

• Job ads
• Background checks
• Training and onboarding
• Lost time if a job stays open for too long

All of these add up, so plan your hiring budget carefully.

Is a Restaurant Recruiter Worth the Cost?

If your restaurant struggles to find good staff, a restaurant recruiter can help. They understand what makes a good hire and often fill roles faster. You also spend less time reading resumes or setting up interviews. Over time, that can save money and reduce stress. You’ll also find better talent, which helps your restaurant run smoothly.

Conclusion

Hiring a restaurant recruiter does cost money, but it can be a smart choice. For small restaurants, every day without the right staff means lost sales. For larger teams, high turnover eats into profits. A recruiter helps you hire faster and better. If you budget carefully and choose the right person, the cost often pays for itself. Always ask about fees upfront, and make sure the recruiter understands your business. The goal is simple: spend less time hiring and more time serving great food.