Last Updated: April 15, 2026
On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina is a casual dining restaurant chain headquartered in Dallas, Texas, with approximately 150 locations across North America. The company employs approximately 12,000 team members in server, kitchen, bartender, and management roles. Entry-level positions start at $15 to $17 per hour plus tips for servers and bartenders, with management roles earning $50,000 to $75,000 annually. The company emphasizes hospitality excellence, team culture, and career advancement into restaurant management and corporate leadership.
How to Apply at On The Border
- Visit the On The Border careers website: Go to ontheborder.com/careers to view open positions by location and role type.
- Browse available positions: Search for server, host, cook, bartender, shift manager, or management opportunities at your preferred location.
- Review position details: Read the job description, pay structure, schedule requirements, and qualifications for each role.
- Prepare your application: Gather your restaurant experience, availability, certifications, and references.
- Complete the online application: Create an account and submit your application with employment history and availability.
- Participate in phone screening: A hiring manager will call to discuss your background and restaurant experience.
- Attend the in-person interview: Meet with the shift manager or general manager for a 30-45 minute interview.
- Receive the job offer: Upon approval, you will be notified of your start date and orientation schedule.
On The Border Job Positions & Pay Rates
| Position | Experience Level | Pay Rate | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|---|
| Host/Hostess | Entry-level | $15.00–$16.50/hr | Greet guests, manage wait list, seat customers |
| Server | Entry-level | $2.13/hr + tips (minimum $15+/hr with tips) | Take orders, serve food/drinks, handle payments |
| Busser | Entry-level | $15.50–$17.00/hr | Clear tables, reset place settings, assist servers |
| Kitchen Prep Cook | Entry-level | $16.50–$18.50/hr | Prepare ingredients, follow recipes, maintain food safety |
| Line Cook | Entry-to-mid | $18.00–$22.00/hr | Prepare entrees, manage cooking station, maintain quality |
| Bartender | Entry-to-mid | $2.13/hr + tips (typically $18+/hr with tips) | Prepare drinks, manage bar inventory, check IDs |
| Shift Manager | Mid-level | $50,000–$62,000/yr | Oversee shift operations, supervise staff |
| General Manager | Mid-to-senior | $65,000–$80,000/yr | Lead restaurant operations, manage budget, hire staff |
On The Border Application Requirements
Server, bartender, and host positions require a high school diploma or equivalent. Restaurant experience is preferred but not required for entry-level roles. Servers and bartenders must be at least 18 years old (bartenders typically 21+). TIPS certification or similar alcohol service certification is required for bartenders. Food handler certification is required in most states for kitchen positions. All candidates must pass background checks.
On The Border Interview Process
On The Border interviews are informal and typically conducted in the restaurant. The phone screening lasts 10-15 minutes and covers availability and prior restaurant experience. The in-person interview with the shift manager or general manager lasts 30-45 minutes and includes discussion of customer service philosophy, teamwork, and handling difficult guests. Decisions are typically made within 24-48 hours.
On The Border Employee Benefits
On The Border provides employee meals at discounted rates or complimentary shifts. Health insurance is available for full-time employees after an eligibility period. A 401(k) retirement plan is available. Paid time off accrues based on tenure for full-time employees. Many servers earn $25-$40 per shift in tips, significantly increasing total earnings during peak hours and weekends.
On The Border Career Development
On The Border promotes from within, with many general managers starting as servers or kitchen staff. Server to shift manager advancement typically occurs within 2-3 years with strong performance and management interest. Shift manager to general manager advancement typically occurs within 3-5 years. The company provides management training programs for employees demonstrating leadership potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
How quickly can I start?
Successful candidates typically start within 3-7 days of receiving the offer, depending on background check completion and training availability.
What is the tipping situation for servers and bartenders?
Servers typically earn $2.13/hr base plus tips, averaging $15-$25+ per hour with tips. Bartenders average $18-$30+ per hour with tips.
Is there flexibility for students?
Yes, On The Border actively hires students. The company accommodates school schedules and offers flexible scheduling for part-time employees.
What advancement opportunities exist?
Strong performers advance from entry-level server or cook positions to shift manager within 2-3 years, then to general manager within an additional 2-3 years.
Do I need prior restaurant experience?
Prior experience is not required for entry-level host, busser, or prep cook positions. However, some server and bartender positions may prefer prior experience or TIPS certification.