JOB DESCRIPTION · HOST
Host job description template
Host/hostess duties, waitlist flow, and a clean hiring template. Hosts set the tone at the door: greet, quote waits honestly, seat to the floor plan, and protect the room’s pace without making guests feel managed.
Core duties
- Answer phones and manage reservations / waitlist tools
- Greet every guest; quote accurate waits; seat to rotation
- Coordinate with servers on opens, turns, and large parties
- Maintain the door stand, menus, and lobby presentation
- Handle walk-ins and VIP notes without breaking fairness
Skills that matter
- Reservation systems (OpenTable, Resy, Tock, or in-house)
- Clear phone and in-person communication
- Floor-plan awareness under pressure
- Shows up on time and communicates when they cannot
- Stays calm when the floor or kitchen peaks
- Takes feedback without getting defensive
Sample host job posting
Copy, then customize pay, schedule, and concept details before you publish.
We need a host who can run the door like an air-traffic controller — warm, accurate, and hard to rattle when the waitlist spikes.
Prior host or FOH experience preferred. You must be comfortable standing the full shift and speaking clearly on the phone.
Hourly pay; tip-out may apply depending on house policy (stated in interview). Weekends required.
Related tools for this hire
Frequently asked
- What makes a strong host job description?
- Call out reservation tools, weekend requirements, standing shifts, and whether hosts tip-share. Door energy is a skill — say so.
- Host vs server?
- Hosts own flow and first impression. Servers own tables and checks. Do not mash the roles unless you truly need a hybrid.
- Should I list language skills?
- Yes bilingual needs if they matter for your market. Prefer “Spanish helpful” over vague “communication skills.”