Lead Host

Alternate Ending Beer Co

Matawan (NJ)

On-site

USD 19,286 - 27,552

Part time

14 days+

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Benefits offered by this job

Guaranteed minimum effective rate of $18/hour

Tips included

Training opportunities

Job summary

Alternate Ending Beer Co in Matawan, NJ, is searching for a Lead Host to oversee hospitality and guest experiences. This leadership role requires strong communication skills and the ability to manage a fast-paced environment effectively.

The ideal candidate should be organized and detail-oriented, with prior restaurant or hospitality experience preferred. This position offers a mix of hosting responsibilities and administrative work, with a focus on creating memorable guest interactions.

Qualifications

Flexible availability required, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
Knowledge of food, beverage, and hospitality service standards.
Strong problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

Oversee front-door hospitality, pacing, reservation flow, and guest communication.
Manage guest flow and pacing during peak service.
Assist with onboarding and training new hosts.

Skills

Strong communication skills

Organizational skills

Problem-solving skills

Customer service experience

Team-oriented mindset

Education

Cicerone Level 1 certification

Tools

POS systems

Basic computer skills

Job description

Lead Host – Alternate Ending Beer Co.

Reports To: General Hospitality Manager & General Operations Manager
Location: Alternate Ending Beer Co. – Matawan, NJ
Estimated Weekly Hours: 28–32 hours

Position Overview

At Alternate Ending Beer Co., the host stand is more than a check-in point, it sets the tone for the entire guest experience.

We are seeking a Lead Host to oversee front-door hospitality, pacing, reservation flow, and guest communication while helping create a warm, organized, hospitality-driven environment. This is a leadership position for someone who thrives in a fast-paced setting, communicates confidently, and takes pride in creating memorable guest experiences.

The ideal candidate is organized, proactive, hospitality-focused, and comfortable balancing both guest interaction and behind-the-scenes planning.

The Lead Host plays a critical role in shaping the pace, energy, and hospitality experience of every service.

Compensation

Host Rate: $14/hour + tips (guaranteed minimum effective rate of $18/hour)
Administrative Rate: $18/hour
Administrative Time: 2 hours weekly (Monday & Thursday)
Additional training, merch support, or approved admin projects compensated at the administrative rate

Typical Weekly Schedule

Monday: Admin + Host shift
Thursday: Admin + Lead Host shift
Friday & Saturday: Lead Host shifts
Sunday:Lead Host shifts as needed

Specific scheduling and shift times may vary based on business needs.

Key Responsibilities

Front Door Leadership

You own the first impression of Alternate Ending.

Responsibilities include:

Maintaining a strong and consistent presence at the host stand during peak service
Managing guest flow and pacing
Communicating accurate wait times
Balancing server sections fairly and effectively
Managing reservations and guest expectations
Helping ensure smooth transitions throughout service

Pre-Shift Planning & Communication

During weekly admin hours (Monday & Thursday), responsibilities include:

Reviewing reservations and guest notes
Identifying birthdays, anniversaries, and special occasions
Flagging large parties and potential operational challenges
Identifying projected rush periods
Communicating important notes to management

Prior to service, the Lead Host will briefly communicate key information to the service team, including:

Special occasion tables
Large parties
Reservation timing surges
VIPs and regular guests

This role is expected to lead proactively, not simply react during service.

Merchandising Support

Assist with monthly merchandise inventory counts
Help maintain organization of merchandise storage and displays
Identify low stock levels
Work toward building a streamlined and repeatable inventory process

Training & Team Development

Assist in onboarding and training new hosts
Model hospitality standards and professionalism
Support consistency in guest-facing communication and service

What We're Looking For

Strong communication and hospitality instincts
Comfortable leading in a fast-paced environment
Organized and detail-oriented
Ability to multitask while staying calm under pressure
Restaurant or hospitality experience preferred
Strong ownership, accountability, and a team-first mentality

Success in This Role Looks Like

Fewer seating bottlenecks
Improved pacing and section balance
Cleaner reservation notes and stronger communication
More consistent recognition of guest celebrations
Smoother weekend service flow
A front door experience that feels organized, welcoming, and intentional

At Alternate Ending, hospitality matters. We believe every guest interaction is a touch point, and the Lead Host plays one of the most important roles in shaping that experience.

Qualifications

Flexible availability required, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays
Knowledge of food, beverage, and hospitality service standards
Knowledge of POS systems and basic computer skills
Craft beer knowledge a plus; interest in learning encouraged
Cicerone Level 1 certification encouraged, but not required
Positive, hospitality-driven attitude with a professional appearance and demeanor
Team-oriented and willing to support fellow staff members
Strong problem-solving, communication, and interpersonal skills
Reliable, observant, organized, and punctual
Able to remain calm and efficient during busy, high-pressure service periods
Enthusiasm for hospitality and for the Alternate Ending experience

Physical Requirements