Host / Hostess

Full-Time

Our hotels are unique, and we are looking for outstanding talent to provide exceptional customer service to our team.  Hotel Valencia Riverwalk is part of Valencia Hotel Collection, a collection of hotels that are created for today’s passionate travelers; each of our hotels is intentionally built to showcase modern design and classic character. We are looking for team members who are ready to be empowered to go above and beyond.

JOB SUMMARY

We are looking for a friendly and professional Host/Hostess to serve as the first point of contact for guests, setting the tone for a refined and welcoming dining experience. You will greet and seat guests with warmth and professionalism, manage reservations with precision, and maintain the flow of the dining room to ensure an exceptional atmosphere. A polished appearance, excellent communication skills, and a gracious demeanor are essential. You will work closely with management and the service team to uphold the highest standards of hospitality and ensure every guest feels valued and cared for. The position requires the ability to use hotel and restaurant technology and devices, including ALICE, OpenTable, and Tabit POS.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & FUNCTIONS

Operational Responsibilities

• Assist in controlling the flow of guests being seated within the restaurant
• Make, cancel, and/or confirm restaurant reservations using OpenTable.
• Operate OpenTable to manage reservations, waitlists, guest notes, seating assignments, and table availability.
• Use Tabit POS and company-issued devices accurately and responsibly to support restaurant operations and guest service.
• Use ALICE to communicate guest requests, service needs, and follow-up items to the appropriate hotel department or manager.
• Assist servers and other staff as needed.
• Monitor service load throughout the outlet and seat incoming parties accordingly
• Obtain beverages for the guest as needed (assisting server)
• Follow up with guests in a timely manner, assisting with additional services/ requests that enhance the guest’s experience. 
• Must be completely familiar with all menu options
• Seat guests and provide them with a menu and information about the restaurant. 
• Maintain regular attendance in compliance with Valencia Hotel Group (and its affiliates) standards as required by scheduling, which will vary depending upon the hotel’s needs
• Complete other duties as assigned by Supervisor
• Deliver company experience for guests / working with team members to meet hotel standards and expectations. 
• Contribute positively to the team within the department
• Prepare for all guest requests
• Display working knowledge of all menu items and prices
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Well-groomed, professional appearance and demeanor.
• Contribute positively to the team within the department
• Prepare for all guest requests
• Comply with Valencia Hotel Collection (and its affiliates) standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient hotel operations.
• Maintain regular attendance in compliance with Valencia Hotel Group (and its affiliates)
• Complete other duties as assigned by Supervisor
• Keep work areas clean and organized
• Be extremely courteous to all customers and fellow employees
• Maintain hotel equipment in proper working conditions
• Effective multitasking skills
• Complete side work as assigned
• Assist in maintaining the ambience of the hotel 

Guest Services

• Respond to the needs and requests of guests
• Handle customer inquiries and complaints
• Maintain knowledge of hotel services and amenities to assist guests with inquiries.
• Provide personalized service by engaging with guests, learning their preferences, and making recommendations.
• Greet guests promptly
• Always maintain a professional and welcoming demeanor to enhance the guest experience.

Team Support and Training

• Attend monthly Food and Beverage Bravo Meetings
• Participating in ongoing weekly training
• Stay updated on menu items, service standards, and company policies
• Participate in mandatory training and meetings. 
• Must be comfortable using the Paycom app or computers to complete training
• May use device (Alice App) to communicate with team members internally during shift to assign/ complete tasks.

Communication and Reporting

• Collaborate with other hotel departments to ensure seamless guest service. 
• Report any incidents, accidents, or unsafe conditions immediately to management.

Safety & Compliance

• Comply with Valencia Hotel Group (and its affiliates) standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient hotel operations.
• Wear required non-slip footwear to prevent slips and falls. 
• Comply with local and state laws regarding alcohol service, including verifying guest identification when necessary. 
• Comply with Valencia Hotel Group (and its affiliates) standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient hotel operations.

BASICS 

• Warmly welcoming and creating a refined, inviting restaurant atmosphere
• Display courteous behavior with guests and team members
• Following all opening, shift, and closing procedures 
• Learn and rehearse Hotel Core 18 Standards.
• Maintain polished and well-organized work areas
• Perform any additional duties assigned by the supervisor.
• Must be able to complete a checklist every shift. 
• Weekly rehearsals to upkeep standards will be administered and utilized.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays

Physical Requirements

• Sitting: Not applicable
• Standing/Walking: Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods of time throughout the shift. 
• Lifting/Carrying: Ability to lift and carry trays, glassware, and supplies (up to 50 lbs. if applicable)
• Other Physical Requirements: Frequent bending, reaching, and light lifting required. Using stairs daily and elevator occasionally.

Working Environment

• Interior: Operate the host/hostess station located inside the hotel. Exposed to variety of surfaces.
• Exterior: Comfortable working outdoors if needed when hosting and seating and serving guest outside.  Exposure to elements and hard surfaces

CANDIDATE PROFILE

Education and Experience

• Communicate effectively with others
• Works productively with a team
• Effective multitasking skills
• Composure and patience under pressure
• High school or equivalent education required.
• TABC and Food Handler’s certificates

ESSENTIAL SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Handling difficult customers or complaints with professionalism 
• Multitasking effectively in a fast-paced environment
• Effective time management and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work well with a team and demonstrate attention to detail
• Excellent organizational skills and interpersonal abilities
• Previous restaurant, hotel, hospitality, or customer-service experience preferred.
• Previous experience in an upscale or fine-dining environment is a plus.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Professional, friendly, and confident personality.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize responsibilities.
• Must be able to learn and confidently use hotel and restaurant systems, including ALICE, OpenTable, and Tabit POS.
• Ability to work evenings, mornings, weekends, holidays, and during special events as required.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.

BENEFITS:  

• Medical, Dental, Life insurance
• Paid Time Off 
• Paid Community Service Days
• Click here to learn more

Valencia Hotel Group (and all its affiliates) is an Equal Opportunity Employer.  Valencia Hotel Group provides equal employment opportunities to all persons. The company does not discriminate because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or ancestry in recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion or any other condition of employment and actively seeks a diverse and representative work force.