Hostess/Host

Host / Hostess Job DescriptionPosition Title

Host / Hostess

Department

Front of House (FOH)

Reports To

Floor Manager / Shift Lead / Owner

Position Summary

The Host / Hostess is the first and last point of contact for our guests and plays a critical role in shaping the overall dining experience. This position sets the tone for service by welcoming guests warmly, managing the flow of the dining room, coordinating with servers and management, and ensuring every guest feels valued from arrival to departure.

A successful Host / Hostess is polished, organized, attentive, and calm under pressure, with a strong sense of hospitality and pride in representing Big Joe's Grille.

Core ResponsibilitiesGuest Experience & Hospitality

• Greet all guests immediately with a warm, professional, and welcoming demeanor
• Make eye contact, smile, and acknowledge guests even during busy periods
• Manage wait lists accurately and communicate wait times clearly and honestly
• Escort guests to tables and present menus with care and confidence
• Offer assistance with high chairs, accessibility needs, or special requests
• Thank guests sincerely as they depart and invite them to return

Dining Room Flow & Seating Management

• Maintain balanced seating to support service quality and kitchen efficiency
• Coordinate table rotation with servers and management
• Track table status (clean, dirty, reserved, occupied) accurately
• Anticipate bottlenecks and adjust seating strategy proactively
• Assist in managing reservations, large parties, and special events

Communication & Team Support

• Communicate clearly and respectfully with servers, bartenders, and kitchen staff
• Notify management of guest concerns, special occasions, or service delays
• Assist servers when possible (pre-bussing, refilling water, running food if trained)
• Support teamwork by stepping in where needed during peak periods

Phone & Front Desk Responsibilities

• Answer phones professionally within 3 rings when possible
• Provide accurate information regarding hours, menus, specials, and events
• Take to-go orders or direct calls appropriately per restaurant procedure
• Handle reservations and inquiries with accuracy and courtesy

Cleanliness & Organization

• Maintain a clean, organized, and presentable host stand at all times
• Keep menus clean, updated, and properly stocked
• Ensure entrance, waiting area, and restrooms are guest-ready
• Assist with opening and closing side work as assigned

Professional Standards & Conduct

• Maintain a polished appearance in accordance with dress code
• Remain calm, respectful, and solution-oriented in all guest interactions
• Uphold confidentiality and professionalism at all times
• Refrain from phone usage while on the clock unless authorized
• Speak positively about the restaurant, ownership, and team at all times

Skills & Qualifications

• Friendly, confident, and professional communication skills
• Strong organizational and multitasking abilities
• Ability to remain composed in fast-paced, high-volume environments
• Basic math and time-management skills
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 20 lbs
• Previous hospitality experience preferred but not required

Availability Requirements

• Must be available nights, weekends, and holidays as required
• Punctuality and reliability are essential

Performance Expectations

• Guests are greeted promptly and warmly at all times
• Accurate wait times and smooth table flow maintained
• Positive guest feedback regarding first impressions and friendliness
• Strong teamwork and communication with FOH staff
• Consistent adherence to cleanliness and professionalism standards

Growth Opportunities

Hosts/Hostesses who demonstrate leadership, reliability, and a strong hospitality mindset may be considered for advancement into:

• Server
• Lead Host
• Shift Lead / Management roles

Core Values Alignment

At Big Joe's Grille, we believe hospitality is a craft and a calling. The Host / Hostess embodies our commitment to Royal Service, teamwork, respect, and excellence — creating an atmosphere where guests feel welcomed, cared for, and eager to return.

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $ $12.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Employee discount

Work Location: In person