Housekeeping Manager

Job Description

Situated in Downtown's 2nd Street District, Austin Proper Hotel and Residences offers an artful immersion in lifestyle and wellbeing. With an emphasis on collaboration, Austin Proper features both inspired interiors by acclaimed designer Kelly Wearstler and is guided by the culinary creativity of Austin tastemaker MML Hospitality. Essentials include 238 rooms and suites; 99 branded residences; four unique settings for dining and drink; a focus on wellness with a dedicated spa and fitness center; and a variety of atmospheric event spaces. And it wouldn't be Proper without a 5th floor pool deck offering small-batch tequilas and sunset views.

Job Summary:

The Housekeeping Manager is responsible for managing the daily operations of the housekeeping department, ensuring that all areas of the hotel, including guest rooms, public spaces, and back-of-house facilities, are maintained to the highest standards of cleanliness, order, and hygiene. The role involves overseeing a team of housekeeping staff, including housekeepers, attendants, and supervisors, and ensuring efficient departmental operations. The Housekeeping Manager is dedicated to providing an exceptional guest experience by ensuring that rooms and public areas are always spotless, while also maintaining a focus on departmental efficiency, staff development, and cost control.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Team Supervision & Staff Management:

• Supervise, train, and manage housekeeping staff, including Housekeepers, Room Attendants, and Housekeeping Supervisors.

• Assign and delegate daily cleaning tasks to ensure that rooms, public areas, and back-of-house spaces are cleaned and maintained in accordance with the hotel's standards.
• Monitor team performance, providing feedback and corrective action when necessary, and recognizing exemplary work.
• Assist with staff scheduling, ensuring adequate coverage for daily operations and special requirements (e.g., early check-ins, peak seasons).
• Conduct regular team meetings to discuss departmental goals, provide updates, and foster a collaborative team environment.

• Operational Oversight:

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the housekeeping department, ensuring rooms are cleaned to the highest standards, and that public areas are well-maintained throughout the hotel.

• Monitor room cleaning schedules, ensuring timely completion and addressing any delays or issues with room readiness.
• Inspect rooms and public areas regularly to ensure cleanliness standards are met and any maintenance needs are identified and addressed.
• Ensure that all guest rooms, bathrooms, and public spaces are fully stocked with necessary amenities, linens, and supplies.
• Coordinate with the Front Desk and Maintenance teams to ensure rooms are ready for guest arrivals and to resolve any issues quickly.

• Guest Satisfaction & Quality Control:

• Ensure the highest level of cleanliness and hygiene standards are maintained in guest rooms, bathrooms, and all public spaces to meet or exceed guest expectations.

• Address and resolve guest complaints or concerns related to cleanliness, room conditions, or housekeeping services in a professional and timely manner.
• Monitor guest feedback related to cleanliness and housekeeping services, ensuring appropriate actions are taken to resolve issues and improve satisfaction.
• Ensure that special guest requests (e.g., extra amenities, specific room needs) are promptly addressed.

• Inventory & Supply Management:

• Manage inventory of housekeeping supplies, linens, cleaning materials, and guest amenities, ensuring stock levels are maintained and well-organized.

• Order and receive supplies in accordance with hotel policies and budgetary guidelines, ensuring cost-effective purchasing practices.
• Ensure proper storage of housekeeping supplies and equipment, maintaining an organized, clean, and safe environment.
• Monitor and track linen usage, ensuring proper care and rotation of linen to minimize costs and extend their life.

• Health, Safety & Compliance:

• Ensure the housekeeping team follows all health, safety, and sanitation regulations, including the proper handling of chemicals, cleaning agents, and equipment.

• Conduct regular safety training for housekeeping staff, promoting a culture of safety and ensuring compliance with safety standards and protocols.
• Ensure the cleanliness and safety of back-of-house areas, including laundry facilities, storage rooms, and housekeeping offices.
• Monitor and ensure that all guest rooms and public spaces comply with fire and safety regulations, conducting periodic checks as necessary.

• Cost Control & Budget Management:

• Assist with managing the housekeeping department's budget, ensuring that expenditures, including supplies, equipment, and labor, are within budgetary limits.

• Monitor housekeeping expenses to ensure that cost-saving strategies are implemented without compromising service quality or cleanliness standards.
• Maintain effective inventory management to reduce waste and improve cost efficiency in the department.
• Provide regular reports on housekeeping costs and identify areas for improvement.

• Training & Development:

• Oversee training and development programs for housekeeping staff to ensure adherence to hotel standards, safety procedures, and cleanliness practices.

• Provide ongoing coaching and support to team members, fostering skill development and motivating staff to deliver high levels of performance.
• Conduct regular training on new cleaning techniques, equipment use, and customer service standards to ensure consistency and excellence.

• Cross-Departmental Collaboration:

• Collaborate closely with the Front Desk, Maintenance, and Food & Beverage departments to ensure smooth communication and seamless guest service.

• Assist with coordinating early check-ins, VIP guest requests, or special room setups in collaboration with other departments.
• Work with the Engineering team to address any maintenance or repair issues in guest rooms or public areas that may impact guest satisfaction.

Education and/or Experience

• High School diploma or equivalent required. A degree in Hospitality Management or a related field is preferred.
• At least 3–5 years of experience in housekeeping or hotel operations, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
• Previous experience in a hotel or resort setting is preferred, particularly in a luxury or full-service environment.
• Familiarity with property management systems (PMS) and housekeeping software is a plus.

Skills/Specialized Knowledge

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to train, motivate, and manage a large team of diverse staff.
• In-depth knowledge of cleaning and sanitation standards, as well as safety protocols in a hospitality environment.
• Ability to maintain composure under pressure, handle complaints, and resolve conflicts effectively.
• Strong problem-solving skills, with the ability to address guest issues and operational challenges quickly and efficiently.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand or walk for extended periods of time.
• Ability to bend, kneel, and lift up to 50 pounds as needed (e.g., carrying linens, equipment, or supplies).
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and evening shifts, depending on hotel needs.

Company Overview

Proper Hospitality is made up of a diverse group of passionate individuals who share a common love for hotels and the art of hospitality. Our philosophy is simple: There is a right way to do things and anything less just isn't proper. We are seeking out the best of the best from inside and outside of the industry to work alongside us as we grow a new kind of lifestyle Hospitality Company inspired by a centuries-old tradition. The work is challenging and fast-paced but rewarding above all.

Proper Hospitality provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.

Proper Hospitality will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinances.