What are the responsibilities and job description for the Host - South Barrington position at Parker Hospitality?
The Host at Parker Hospitality is the first and last point of contact for every guest. Polished, professional, and highly organized, the Host manages the flow of service by coordinating reservations, walk-ins, and private event seatings while ensuring a warm and seamless experience throughout. This role also trains and develops the host team and maintains ongoing communication with management to uphold Parker Hospitality standards.
OUR CORE VALUES
FIND A WAY | CREATIVE OWNERSHIP AND RELENTLESS PROBLEM SOLVING
PERFORM WITH PURPOSE | EXECUTION THAT MOVES THE BUSINESS FORWARD
GET THE GAME | UNDERSTANDING HOW THE BUSINESS WORKS
ADAPT AND OVERCOME | STAYING STEADY THROUGH CHANGE
HOSPITALITY EXCELLENCE | ANTICIPATING NEEDS BEFORE THEY ARISE
STRONGER TOGETHER | TEAM SUCCESS OVER INDIVIDUAL SUCCESS
RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Coordinate and manage all reservations, walk-ins, and private event seatings, particularly during peak service periods.
2. Strategize with management on optimal large party seating and placement.
3. Note guest dietary and physical restrictions and communicate them to the appropriate team members.
4. Initiate and maintain active communication with management and back of house teams during high volume periods.
5. Communicate clearly, professionally, and warmly with guests when delays or wait times occur.
6. Represent the host stand during pre shift and relay important information to the team.
7. Engage with guests in a professional and warm manner both in venue and over the phone.
8. Lead the host stand by training and developing hosts, delegating duties, and escalating issues to management.
9. Ensure all confirmed events are entered in OpenTable with the corresponding shift notes.
10. Lead the building and maintenance of the OpenTable guest notes database per GRM guidelines.
11. Recognize frequent guests, key industry contacts, and VIPs.
12. Accept direction and constructive feedback from management.
13. Maintain a positive and professional attitude throughout every shift.
The responsibilities listed above represent the key duties of this role and are not an exhaustive list. Additional duties may be assigned as needed to support the venue, team, and overall business needs.
QUALIFICATIONS
• Must be at least 21 years of age.
• Ability to communicate in English, both written and spoken; additional language skills are a distinct advantage.
• Minimum of 3 years of hospitality experience.
• College degree preferred; hotel or restaurant management background desirable.
• Demonstrated leadership skills with the ability to train and develop team members.
• Proficiency in restaurant service standards, staffing, and operations.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and multitask effectively in a high volume environment.
• Knowledge of food, wine, and cocktails preferred.
• Experience with OpenTable and/or Reserve preferred.
CONDITIONS OF EMPLOYMENT
• Demonstrate Parker Hospitality's core values at all times.
• Follow all uniform and appearance guidelines for the duration of the shift.
• Arrive punctually and prepared for duty.
• Comply with all rules, policies, and conditions of employment outlined in the Employee Handbook.
• Abstain from working under the influence of alcohol or any illegal substances.
• Refrain from engaging in violent, discriminatory, or harassing behavior.
• Pass a drug and alcohol test within the first 90 days of employment, where required.
• Must be able to stand or walk for the majority of a shift.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Must be available to work a variety of hours, days, and shifts including weekends.
Parker Hospitality is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or any other status protected by law.
Salary : $15