Host/Hostess

Job Overview

We are seeking an energetic and welcoming Host/Hostess to be the first point of contact for our guests, creating a positive and memorable dining experience from the moment they arrive. In this role, you will manage restaurant reservations, greet guests with warmth and professionalism, and coordinate seating arrangements efficiently. Your enthusiasm and organizational skills will ensure smooth guest flow, uphold excellent customer service standards, and support the overall hospitality environment.

Position Summary

The Host / Reservations position controls the first and final impression of the guest experience. The role welcomes guests, manages reservations and wait lists, coordinates table flow, communicates accurately with the service team, and maintains an organized, hospitable entry experience consistent with The Maren Co. standards.

Essential Functions & Responsibilities

• Warmly greet, acknowledge, and thank every guest; provide accurate wait estimates and maintain professional phone, text, and reservation-system communication.
• Manage reservations, walk-ins, wait lists, table status, seating rotation, guest preferences, accessibility requests, VIP notes, and large-party information.
• Seat guests according to approved pacing and section strategy; communicate changes, delays, special needs, and guest concerns to the manager and service team.
• Maintain accurate guest profiles and notes while protecting personal information and avoiding inappropriate or discriminatory comments.
• Keep entry, host stand, menus, waiting areas, and related guest-facing spaces clean, organized, and stocked.
• Answer common venue questions accurately regarding hours, menus, parking, dress standards, accessibility, events, and reservation policies; escalate exceptions to management.
• Assist with takeout handoff, coat/umbrella handling, basic guest directions, and other reasonable service tasks when assigned.
• Complete opening/closing side work and immediately report safety, security, or guest-conduct concerns.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Hospitality, customer-service, or restaurant experience preferred; strong entry-level candidates may be trained.
• Clear verbal communication, professional presence, composure, and ability to manage multiple guest needs simultaneously.
• Basic computer/tablet proficiency and ability to learn reservation and POS systems.
• Availability for evenings, weekends, holidays, and peak business periods.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Stand for extended periods and frequently walk between the entry and dining areas.
• Occasionally lift/carry menus, highchairs, small supplies, or guest items up to approximately 25 pounds.
• Work near doors and changing temperatures, crowded spaces, loud music, and high guest traffic.

Schedule Expectations

• Schedule is based on business needs and may include early mornings, evenings, late nights, weekends, holidays, special events, meetings, and required training. No minimum or guaranteed number of hours is created by this description.

Legal / Compliance Requirements

• Must perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Employment is subject to applicable minimum wage, overtime, tip, predictive-scheduling, meal/rest, and minor-work rules.
• If included in a tip pool, participation must be lawful for the pay model used and must exclude managers/supervisors as required by law.
• Guest notes and seating decisions must never discriminate based on protected characteristics.

Equal Opportunity / Accommodation: The Maren Co. is committed to equal employment opportunity and a workplace free from unlawful discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. Qualified individuals must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation. Employment Statement: Where permitted by applicable law, employment is at will. This job description is not a contract and does not guarantee hours, schedule, compensation, duties, or continued employment. Duties may be modified and other reasonable duties may be assigned based on business needs.

Pay: $16.00 - $21.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Flexible schedule

Work Location: In person