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Job Description
The Restaurant Host is the first point of contact for guests and plays a vital role in ensuring a welcoming, organized, and efficient front desk operation. This position requires professionalism, strong communication skills, and the ability to perform under pressure during high-volume service periods. The Host manages the reservation and waitlist system, coordinates with floor and kitchen teams, and provides support across front-of-house operations to ensure seamless guest experiences.
Key Responsibilities:
Greet all guests courteously and promptly, creating a positive first impression Manage reservations, seating, and waitlists on a first-come, first-served basis while balancing table availability and guest flow Accommodate special requests (e.g., window seating) when possible, ensuring fairness and consistency Communicate with guests about waiting times accurately and professionally Handle to-go orders, answer phone calls, and provide accurate information on restaurant policies, hours, and large party procedures Support the team with table setup, clearing, and other front-of-house duties during peak times Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the host podium, entryway, and front areas Maintain the Host Binder, ensuring forms are stocked Clean and restock all menus and menu covers (dinner, wine, dessert, bar, snack) Ensure the podium is stocked with updated materials, forms, menus, matches, toothpicks, brochures, and pens Update and replace menu pages as directed by management Address guest concerns promptly; escalate unresolved issues to the Manager on Duty Other duties as assigned 0 Excellent interpersonal and communication skills Professional appearance and demeanor at all times Strong multitasking and organizational abilities Basic computer and POS knowledge Ability to work effectively in a team-oriented, fast-paced environment Education & Experience High School diploma, GED, or equivalent combination of education and experience required Minimum one (1) year of restaurant environment experience preferred Physical Requirements Stand and walk for extended periods of time throughout the shift Use hands and arms to handle, reach, and organize menus, supplies, and seating materials Lift, carry, and move items such as menus, chairs, table settings, and small boxes of supplies weighing up to 25 pounds Bend, stoop, or kneel occasionally to retrieve items or assist with table setup See, hear, and communicate clearly, including the ability to listen in a noisy environment and convey information effectively to guests and team members Maintain balance and coordination while moving through crowded areas or when assisting guests Perform repetitive motions such as using a phone, POS terminal, or computer keyboard Work Environment A fast-paced, guest-service environment with frequent interruptions and time-sensitive demands Moderate to high noise levels during peak service hours from guests, music, and restaurant equipment Indoor and occasional outdoor exposure, including variable temperatures when greeting or seating guests near patios or entryways Bright or dim lighting conditions depending on time of day and section of the restaurant Proximity to kitchen and service areas, which may include exposure to food aromas, cleaning chemicals, and hot surfaces Occasional contact with moving mechanical parts, such as door mechanisms, service carts, or kitchen equipment Frequent standing and walking on hard surfaces such as tiles or concrete floors Team-oriented, cooperative atmosphere, requiring constant communication with staff and management Requirement to follow all safety and sanitation protocols, including compliance with Cal/OSHA, health department standards, and company safety procedures Mission Ranch provides reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions Mission Ranch is an Equal Opportunity Employer that considers all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, national origin, ancestry, disability, veteran status, genetic information, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law, and participates in E-Verify