Front Desk Agent

Front Office AgentHighgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $15 billion of assets under management and a global portfolio of more than 400 hotels spanning North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America. With a 30-year track record as an innovator in the hospitality industry, this forward-thinking company provides expert guidance through all stages of the property cycle, from planning and development through recapitalization or disposition. Highgate continues to demonstrate success in developing a diverse portfolio of bespoke lifestyle hotel brands, legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts, featuring contemporary programming and digital acumen. The company utilizes industry-leading revenue management tools that efficiently identify and predict evolving market dynamics to drive outperformance and maximize asset value. With an executive team of seasoned hospitality leaders and corporate offices worldwide, Highgate is a trusted partner for top ownership groups and major hotel brands.Location: Fairfield Inn South Joliet, 1501 Riverboat Center, Joliet, IL 60431The Front Office Agent is responsible for providing attentive, courteous and efficient service to all guests during check-in, throughout their stay, and at checkout, while maximizing room revenue and occupancy. We are looking for someone who can work 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. shifts as well as 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. shifts.ResponsibilitiesAnswer inquires from guests regarding restaurants, transportation, entertainment, etc.Follow all cash handling and credit policies.Be aware of all rates, packages and special promotions as listed in the Red Book.Be familiar with all in-house groups.Be aware of closed out and restricted dates.Obtain all necessary information when taking room reservations and follow the rate-quoting scenario.Be familiar with hospitality terminology.Have knowledge of emergency procedures and assist as needed.Handle check-ins and checkouts in a friendly, efficient and courteous manner.Use proper two-way radio etiquette at all times when communicating with other employees.Fully comprehend and be able to operate all relevant aspects of the Front Desk computer system.Be able to perform and complete all tasks and duties on the shift checklist in a timely and efficient manner.Be able to complete a bucket check, room rate verification report, and housekeeping report.Balance and prepare individual paperwork for closing of shift according to hotel standards.Maintain and market promotions and guest programs.Maintain a clean work area.Assist guests with safe deposit boxes.QualificationsCollege course work in related field helpful.Experience in a hotel or a related field preferred.High School diploma or equivalent required.Computer experience required.Customer Services experience preferred.Maintain a warm and friendly demeanor at all times.Must be able to effectively communicate both verbally and written, with all level of employees and guests in an attentive, friendly, courteous and service oriented manner.Must be effective at listening to, understanding, and clarifying concerns raised by employees and guests.Must be able to multitask and prioritize departmental functions to meet deadlines.Approach all encounters with guests and employees in an attentive, friendly, courteous and service-oriented manner.Maintain regular attendance in compliance with Highgate Hotel Standards, as required by scheduling, which will vary according to the needs of the hotel.Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming, which includes wearing the proper uniform and nametag.Comply with Highgate Hotel Standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient hotel operations.Maximize efforts towards productivity, identify problem areas and assist in implementing solutions.Must be able to understand and apply complex information, data, etc. from various sources to meet appropriate objectives.Must be able to cross-train in other hotel related areas.Must be able to maintain confidentiality of information.Must be able to show initiative, including anticipating guest or operational needs.Perform other duties as requested by management.BenefitsWe are pleased to offer to our full-time associates a comprehensive and competitive benefits package designed to support your health, well-being, and financial future.Medical insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability insurance401(k) Retirement Plan with employer matching contributionsPaid holidaysPaid vacationPaid sick leave (provided in accordance with applicable law)Employee assistance program (EAP)Educational opportunities / Tuition reimbursementPaid jury duty leave, personal leave, medical leave, and military leave in accordance with applicable lawFor Employees Based in Washington:8 paid holidays per yearUp to 20 days of paid vacation per year, based on classification and length of servicePaid Sick & Safe Time accrues at 1 hour for every 30 hours worked, with up to 72 hours of unused time carried over from one anniversary year to the next.For Employees Based in Colorado:8 paid holidays per year; employees working in the City of Denver receive 64 hours of designated holiday time per calendar yearUp to 20 days of paid vacation per year, based on classification and length of service6 days or 48 hours of Paid Sick Leave per year, accrued at 1 hour for every 30 hours worked.For Employees Based in California:8 paid holidays per yearUp to 20 days of paid vacation per year, based on classification and length of service, capped at 1.5x annual accrual rate; non-supervisory employees working in the City of Los Angeles accrue up to 22 days of Compensated Time Off, based on length of service capped at 192 hours of combined PST and CTO.Paid Sick Time accrues at 1 hour for every 30 hours worked, unused time is carried over from one anniversary year to the next up to a maximum of 80 hours; employees working in the City of Los Angeles are provided 40 hours of Paid Sick Time annually on their anniversary, unused time is not carried over from one anniversary year to the next.Please note that certain benefits described above for associates in Washington, Colorado, and California may vary for associates covered by a Collective Bargaining Agreement ("CBA"). For such associates, eligibility for and the terms and conditions of benefits are governed by the applicable CBA and any applicable plan documents, and may differ from the benefits described above. In the event of any conflict or inconsistency, the terms of the applicable CBA and governing plan documents will control, as applicable.**The above-referenced benefits do not apply to part-time positions Highgate Hotels