Host

Ontario Trillium Foundation; Springfield (NJ); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Ontario Trillium Foundation in Springfield, NJ is seeking a Host to warmly welcome guests and manage seating and transactions with accuracy. You will greet guests, maintain the waitlist, answer menu questions, and assist with takeout orders while ensuring a smooth and enjoyable guest experience.

The role requires strong communication, the ability to multitask in a fast-paced setting, basic math, and familiarity with POS systems. Flexibility for evenings, weekends, and holidays is a plus.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a cashier, host, or customer-facing role preferred but not required.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic math skills and familiarity with POS systems are a plus.

Responsibilities

• Warmly greet guests upon arrival and maintain a welcoming host stand.
• Manage seating chart and rotate tables to maximize guest satisfaction and efficiency.
• Maintain an organized waitlist and communicate wait times accurately.
• Assist guests with menu questions and restaurant operations.
• Process guest transactions accurately using the POS system; handle cash and card payments.
• Assist guests with takeout orders and ensure timely preparation.
• Suggest menu items and promotions to enhance guest experience and drive sales.
• Provide outstanding service from entry to departure and escalate issues when needed.
• Keep host stand area clean and restocked; assist with opening/closing duties.

Skills

Strong communication

Interpersonal skills

Multitasking

POS familiarity

Customer-facing experience

Tools

POS systems

Job description

The Host is the first point of contact for our guests, responsible for creating a warm and welcoming environment. This role combines the responsibilities of hosting guests and efficiently managing transactions. The ideal candidate is friendly, organized, and passionate about providing excellent service.

Duties & Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Warmly greet guests upon arrival with a smile and a friendly attitude.
• Manage the seating chart and ensure tables are rotated effectively to maximize guest satisfaction and restaurant efficiency.
• Maintain an organized waitlist and communicate wait times accurately.
• Assist guests with any inquiries about the menu or restaurant operations.
• Process guest transactions accurately and efficiently using the POS system.
• Handle cash, credit card payments, and receipts while maintaining proper cash handling procedures.
• Assist guests with takeout orders, ensuring accuracy and timely preparation.
• Suggest menu items and promotions to enhance the guest experience and increase sales.
• Provide outstanding service to ensure guests have a positive experience from the moment they enter to the moment they leave.
• Address guest concerns or complaints professionally and **escalate** issues to management when necessary.
• Keep the host stand area clean, organized, and welcoming.
• Assist with opening and closing duties, including cleaning and restocking supplies.
• Communicate effectively with team members and management to ensure smooth operations.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

Essential Functions

• Previous experience in a cashier, host, or customer-facing role preferred but not required.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic math skills and familiarity with POS systems are a plus.
• Knowledge & Abilities
• Friendly, positive demeanor with a passion for providing excellent guest service.
• Ability to handle guest interactions with professionalism and patience.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8–10 hours per shift).
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25–50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive movements in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work in varying conditions, including heat, cold, and noise.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.