What are the responsibilities and job description for the Host position at Acadia National Park?
Job Title: Host
Reports To: Restaurant Manager
Location: Jordan Pond House
Overview:
We are seeking an enthusiastic and professional Host to join our team at Jordan Pond House. The ideal candidate will thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment, with a strong focus on providing an excellent guest experience. As a Host, you will play a key role in managing guest flow, ensuring smooth seating arrangements, and maintaining communication with both guests and the front-of-house team. The expectation is to provide exemplary customer service to all guests by being proficient in all aspects of FOH operations. Each restaurant associate will be trained in all FOH positions and can be expected to perform distinct roles on any given day to fulfill the needs of the operation. This position offers the opportunity to earn a share in the tip pool.
Key Responsibilities:
- Seating Management: Greet guests warmly and manage the seating chart, ensuring efficient and timely seating during busy hours.
- Reservation System Management: Use reservation software such as Resy, OpenTable, or other systems to track guest reservations, waitlists, and seating arrangements.
- Guest Communication: Maintain clear and professional communication with guests regarding wait times, seating availability, and general inquiries.
- Tempo Control: Ensure the restaurant operates smoothly by controlling the pace of seating to maintain a balanced flow of guests, avoiding overcrowding or delays.
- Collaboration: Work closely with servers, kitchen staff, and management to communicate guest needs and special requests.
- Consistency and Organization: Manage busy environments, consistently seating guests while ensuring high service standards are maintained throughout peak hours.
- Guest Experience: Ensure that guests are greeted with a friendly and welcoming attitude, making them feel valued and taken care of from the moment they arrive.
- Outdoor Enjoyment: Since our location offers beautiful outdoor seating, the ability to enjoy and work in a picturesque outdoor setting is essential.
Qualifications:
- Minimum of 3 years of experience in a similar role, ideally in busy restaurants with waitlists.
- Proficient in using reservation software like Resy, OpenTable, or similar systems.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to stay upbeat and professional, even during busy periods.
- Ability to handle high-pressure situations, maintaining composure and efficiency during peak times.
- Excellent organizational skills and the ability to manage guest flow and seating efficiently.
- A solid attendance record, demonstrating reliability and a strong work ethic.
- Must enjoy the outdoors and be comfortable working in an environment where outdoor seating is a key component of the guest experience.
Why You'll Love about Working at Jordan Pond House:
- Earn Tips: Enjoy the benefits of a tip pool that averages generous hourly rates throughout the season.
- Iconic Location: Work in one of Maine’s most stunning and historic settings, located within Acadia National Park.
- Collaborative Team: Join a supportive and dynamic team that strives for excellence in guest service and teamwork.
- Growth Opportunities: Gain valuable experience in the hospitality industry and grow within our organization.
- Outdoor Experience: Enjoy a unique work environment with access to scenic outdoor seating and beautiful surroundings.
- Local Flexibility: Ideal for students, part-time workers, or anyone looking to build a rewarding experience in a well-known location.
- Employee Shuttle: Limiting drive time and parking hassles, park at any of our housing locations and ride in to work.
