Lead Host

Lead Host – Alternate Ending Beer Co.

Reports To: General Hospitality Manager & General Operations Manager
Location: Alternate Ending Beer Co. – Matawan, NJ
Estimated Weekly Hours: 28–32 hours

Position Overview

At 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.

Compensation

• Host Rate: $14/hour + tips ( guaranteed minimum effective rate of $18/hour )
• Administrative Rate: $18/hour
• Administrative Time: 2 hours weekly (Monday & Thursday)
• Additional training, merch support, or approved admin projects compensated at the administrative rate

Typical Weekly Schedule

• Monday: Admin + Host shift
• Thursday: Admin + Lead Host shift
• Friday & Saturday: Lead Host shifts
• Sunday: Lead Host shifts as needed

Specific scheduling and shift times may vary based on business needs.

Key Responsibilities

Front Door Leadership

You own the first impression of Alternate Ending.

Responsibilities include:

• Maintaining a strong and consistent presence at the host stand during peak service
• Managing guest flow and pacing
• Communicating accurate wait times
• Balancing server sections fairly and effectively
• Managing reservations and guest expectations
• Helping ensure smooth transitions throughout service

Pre-Shift Planning & Communication

During weekly admin hours (Monday & Thursday), responsibilities include:

• Reviewing reservations and guest notes
• Identifying birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions
• Flagging large parties and potential operational challenges
• Identifying projected rush periods
• Communicating important notes to management

Prior to service, the Lead Host will briefly communicate key information to the service team, including:

• Special occasion tables
• Large parties
• Reservation timing surges
• VIPs and regular guests

This role is expected to lead proactively, not simply react during service.

Merchandising Support

• Assist with monthly merchandise inventory counts
• Help maintain organization of merchandise storage and displays
• Identify low stock levels
• Work toward building a streamlined and repeatable inventory process

Training & Team Development

• Assist in onboarding and training new hosts
• Model hospitality standards and professionalism
• Support consistency in guest-facing communication and service

What We're Looking For

• Strong communication and hospitality instincts
• Comfortable leading in a fast-paced environment
• Organized and detail-oriented
• Ability to multitask while staying calm under pressure
• Restaurant or hospitality experience preferred
• Strong ownership, accountability, and a team-first mentality

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Fewer seating bottlenecks
• Improved pacing and section balance
• Cleaner reservation notes and stronger communication
• More consistent recognition of guest celebrations
• Smoother weekend service flow
• A front door experience that feels organized, welcoming, and intentional

At 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.

Qualifications

• Flexible availability required, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
• Knowledge of food, beverage, and hospitality service standards
• Knowledge of POS systems and basic computer skills
• Craft beer knowledge a plus; interest in learning encouraged
• Cicerone Level 1 certification encouraged, but not required
• Positive, hospitality-driven attitude with a professional appearance and demeanor
• Team-oriented and willing to support fellow staff members
• Strong problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Reliable, observant, organized, and punctual
• Able to remain calm and efficient during busy, high-pressure service periods
• Enthusiasm for hospitality and for the Alternate Ending experience

Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand and/or walk for up to 8 hours
• Must be able to bend, push, pull, and lift up to 25–50 lbs
• Frequently stands, walks, talks, hears, and uses hands and arms
• Occasionally sits, climbs, balances, stoops, kneels, crouches, or crawls
• Occasionally works in outdoor weather conditions
• Noise level is moderate