Host - Iron Hill Brewery & Restaurant

Host Job Description

Job Summary

The Host Team is responsible for creating a welcoming and organized experience for guests from the moment they arrive. Hosts greet guests, manage reservations and waitlists, and coordinate seating to ensure smooth and efficient service throughout the restaurant.

This role requires strong communication, organization, and attention to detail while working closely with servers, Server Assistants, bartenders, and management to maintain proper table flow and provide a positive guest experience.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

Essential Responsibilities

Guest Service
• Greet guests promptly and warmly upon arrival
• Manage reservations, waitlists, and guest seating
• Escort guests to tables and provide menus when appropriate
• Provide accurate wait time estimates when necessary
• Thank guests as they depart and ensure a positive final impression
• Respond to guest questions or direct them to the appropriate staff member

Dining Room Management
• Maintain organized and balanced seating rotations among servers
• Monitor table availability and communicate with service staff regarding table readiness
• Coordinate seating to maintain efficient service flow
• Work with Server Assistants and servers to identify tables that are ready to be seated
• Communicate with management during high-volume periods to adjust seating strategy as needed

Communication & Team Support
• Communicate clearly with servers, bartenders, Server Assistants, and management
• Notify servers immediately when guests are seated in their sections
• Inform management of guest concerns or service issues
• Assist with maintaining an organized host stand and entrance area
• Support other front-of-house team members when needed

Operational Responsibilities

Opening Duties
• Prepare host stand and ensure all necessary materials are stocked
• Review reservations and large party bookings for the shift
• Confirm floor plan and server sections with management
• Ensure menus and host materials are organized and available

During Service
• Maintain accurate waitlists and reservations
• Monitor dining room flow and update wait times as needed
• Communicate with servers and Server Assistants regarding table turnover
• Assist guests waiting for tables and provide updates as needed
• Maintain a clean and organized host stand and entrance area

Closing Duties
• Ensure host stand is clean and organized
• Restock menus and host materials
• Confirm all reservations and waitlists are closed
• Communicate with management regarding any remaining tables or guest concerns

Physical Requirements

The physical demands listed below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time
• Ability to move quickly and safely in a fast-paced restaurant environment
• Ability to lift and carry items up to approximately 25 pounds when necessary
• Ability to reach, bend, and move throughout the restaurant

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Qualifications
• Strong customer service and communication skills
• Ability to remain organized in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously
• Ability to work collaboratively with the entire front-of-house team
• Strong attention to detail and guest experience standards
• Ability to maintain a professional and welcoming demeanor with guests

Communication & Language Skills
• Ability to read, write, and communicate effectively in English
• Ability to follow verbal instructions and communicate clearly with team members and management