Lead Host

Job Description

Job Description

Lead Host – Alternate Ending Beer Co.Reports To: General Hospitality Manager & General Operations ManagerLocation: Alternate Ending Beer Co. – Matawan, NJEstimated Weekly Hours: 28–32 hoursPosition OverviewAt Alternate Ending Beer Co., the host stand is more than a check-in point, it sets the tone for the entire guest experience.We are seeking a Lead Host to oversee front-door hospitality, pacing, reservation flow, and guest communication while helping create a warm, organized, hospitality-driven environment. This is a leadership position for someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting, communicates confidently, and takes pride in creating memorable guest experiences.The ideal candidate is organized, proactive, hospitality-focused, and comfortable balancing both guest interaction and behind-the-scenes planning.The Lead Host plays a critical role in shaping the pace, energy, and hospitality experience of every service.CompensationHost Rate: $14/hour + tips (guaranteed minimum effective rate of $18/hour)Administrative Rate: $18/hourAdministrative Time: 2 hours weekly (Monday & Thursday)Additional training, merch support, or approved admin projects compensated at the administrative rateTypical Weekly ScheduleMonday: Admin + Host shiftThursday: Admin + Lead Host shiftFriday & Saturday: Lead Host shiftsSunday: Lead Host shifts as neededSpecific scheduling and shift times may vary based on business needs.Key ResponsibilitiesFront Door LeadershipYou own the first impression of Alternate Ending.Responsibilities include:Maintaining a strong and consistent presence at the host stand during peak serviceManaging guest flow and pacingCommunicating accurate wait timesBalancing server sections fairly and effectivelyManaging reservations and guest expectationsHelping ensure smooth transitions throughout servicePre-Shift Planning & CommunicationDuring weekly admin hours (Monday & Thursday), responsibilities include:Reviewing reservations and guest notesIdentifying birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasionsFlagging large parties and potential operational challengesIdentifying projected rush periodsCommunicating important notes to managementPrior to service, the Lead Host will briefly communicate key information to the service team, including:Special occasion tablesLarge partiesReservation timing surgesVIPs and regular guestsThis role is expected to lead proactively, not simply react during service.Merchandising SupportAssist with monthly merchandise inventory countsHelp maintain organization of merchandise storage and displaysIdentify low stock levelsWork toward building a streamlined and repeatable inventory processTraining & Team DevelopmentAssist in onboarding and training new hostsModel hospitality standards and professionalismSupport consistency in guest-facing communication and serviceWhat We're Looking ForStrong communication and hospitality instinctsComfortable leading in a fast-paced environmentOrganized and detail-orientedAbility to multitask while staying calm under pressureRestaurant or hospitality experience preferredStrong ownership, accountability, and a team-first mentalitySuccess in This Role Looks LikeFewer seating bottlenecksImproved pacing and section balanceCleaner reservation notes and stronger communicationMore consistent recognition of guest celebrationsSmoother weekend service flowA front door experience that feels organized, welcoming, and intentionalAt Alternate Ending, hospitality matters. We believe every guest interaction is a touch point, and the Lead Host plays one of the most important roles in shaping that experience.QualificationsFlexible availability required, including days, nights, weekends, and holidaysKnowledge of food, beverage, and hospitality service standardsKnowledge of POS systems and basic computer skillsCraft beer knowledge a plus; interest in learning encouragedCicerone Level 1 certification encouraged, but not requiredPositive, hospitality-driven attitude with a professional appearance and demeanorTeam-oriented and willing to support fellow staff membersStrong problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skillsReliable, observant, organized, and punctualAble to remain calm and efficient during busy, high-pressure service periodsEnthusiasm for hospitality and for the Alternate Ending experiencePhysical RequirementsMust be able to stand and/or walk for up to 8 hoursMust be able to bend, push, pull, and lift up to 25–50 lbsFrequently stands, walks, talks, hears, and uses hands and armsOccasionally sits, climbs, balances, stoops, kneels, crouches, or crawlsOccasionally works in outdoor weather conditionsNoise level is moderate