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Job Description
Position SummarySandestin Golf & Beach Resort is proud to offer a structured 6 or 12 month J-1 Front Desk Internship designed for international students and recent graduates seeking hands-on experience in luxury resort front office operations. This internship provides practical training in guest service excellence, front desk procedures, reservations support, and leadership development within a full-service resort environment.
Interns will gain valuable exposure to U.S. hospitality standards while learning how exceptional guest experiences begin at the front desk. This program is designed to develop future hospitality leaders by building strong operational knowledge, confidence in guest interactions, and a deep understanding of luxury resort service standards.
Program ObjectivesDevelop a strong understanding of front desk and guest services operationsGain hands-on experience in luxury resort check-in and check-out proceduresStrengthen communication, problem-solving, and service recovery skillsLearn U.S. hospitality standards and guest service expectationsBuild teamwork, leadership, and professional confidenceCreate cross-departmental understanding between Front Office and Resort OperationsParticipate in cultural exchange and professional development opportunitiesEssential Duties and ResponsibilitiesFront Desk OperationsAssist with guest check-in and check-out procedures using resort property management systemsWelcome guests with professionalism and provide exceptional first impressionsHandle guest reservations, room assignments, and special requestsAnswer phones, emails, and guest inquiries regarding resort amenities and servicesProcess payments, billing adjustments, and folio reviews accuratelyMaintain front desk organization, cleanliness, and operational readiness Guest ServicesProvide concierge-style service and local area recommendationsAssist with VIP arrivals, special accommodations, and guest requestsSupport guest recovery efforts by resolving concerns promptly and professionallyCoordinate with housekeeping, maintenance, and other departments to ensure guest satisfactionLearn escalation procedures and service recovery best practicesLeadership DevelopmentParticipate in departmental meetings, training sessions, and service workshopsShadow Front Office leaders to understand supervisory responsibilitiesComplete assigned learning projects focused on guest service and operationsBuild strong working relationships across departmentsLearn how high-performing teams create exceptional guest experiencesLearning OutcomesBy the completion of the internship, the participant will:
Understand full-service luxury resort front desk operationsDemonstrate strong guest service and communication skillsSuccessfully manage guest interactions with professionalism and confidenceUnderstand reservations, billing, and service recovery proceduresGain hands-on exposure through rotational training in PBX (guest phone services), Reservations, and Dispatch operationsLearn how PBX supports guest communication and internal resort coordinationDevelop an understanding of reservation booking processes, inventory management, and guest arrival planningGain experience with Dispatch operations, including coordinating guest requests and communication between departmentsGain leadership exposure within Front Office operationsBuild teamwork skills and operational knowledge for future hospitality careersQualificationsMust be eligible for participation in a J-1 Internship or Trainee ProgramCurrently enrolled in or recently graduated from a hospitality, tourism, business, or related academic programStrong interest in hotel operations and tourism managementExcellent verbal and written communication skillsPositive attitude and willingness to learnProfessional appearance and demeanorAbility to work flexible schedules including weekends, evenings, and holidaysStrong customer service mindset and team-oriented approachPhysical RequirementsAbility to stand for extended periods throughout the shiftAbility to walk throughout the resort property as neededAbility to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 25 pounds occasionallyAbility to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach as neededAbility to work in a fast-paced, guest-facing environmentAbility to use computers, phones, and front desk systems for extended periodsAbility to work indoors and occasionally outdoors while assisting guests across the resortWork EnvironmentThis internship takes place within the Front Office and Guest Services operations of a large luxury resort environment. Interns will work in a fast-paced, service-driven setting where professionalism, attention to detail, and exceptional guest service are essential to daily success.