Hostess/Host

Host/Hostess

Core Responsibilities

• Greeting guests promptly and warmly, creating a welcoming atmosphere
• Managing reservations via phone, online platforms, or in-person, ensuring accurate wait times and coordinating with walk-ins
• Seating guests according to seating charts, pacing needs, and party size, balancing server sections to maintain efficient table turnover
• Providing menus and answering initial guest questions
• Maintaining cleanliness and organization of the host station, dining area, and entryway
• Communicating with staff (servers, kitchen, management) about table availability, guest status, and special requests
• Supporting operations during busy periods, such as clearing tables or assisting with drinks
• Processing payments and ensuring a seamless checkout experience

Pay

• $10 an hour, plus tips

Physical Demands

• Standing and walking throughout the shift — often continuously, as you move between tables, the host stand, and the dining room
• Bending, stooping, kneeling, and crouching to clean, restock, or adjust seating areas
• Reaching with hands and arms to access menus, supplies, or guest items
• Lifting light to moderate items — up to about 10 pounds occasionally, and sometimes up to 50 pounds
• Talking and hearing regularly, as you must communicate with guests, servers, and kitchen staff
• Using hands to handle menus, pens, and other small items, and to operate POS systems for taking orders and processing payments
• Balancing while moving or standing for extended periods

Skills and Qualities

• Strong customer service skills with a friendly, professional demeanor
• Excellent communication abilities, both verbal and written.
• Organizational skills to manage seating charts, reservations, and waitlists efficiently
• Ability to multitask in a busy, fast-paced environment.
• Calm under pressure and the ability to handle stress without losing composure
• Attention to detail to ensure accurate seating and reservation information.

Education and Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Food handlers permit