Zingerman's Roadhouse Host/Lead Host

Zingerman; Ann Arbor (MI); On-site; USD 18,000 - 19,000; Part time

Job summary

Zingerman's Roadhouse is hiring a Host/Lead Host to ensure an exceptional guest experience. You will manage reservations, communicate wait times, and assist with seating plans to optimize guest flow.

The role requires weekend and holiday availability, strong communication, and leadership within a fast-paced dining environment. Part-time and full-time shifts are available, with competitive hourly pay and tips.

Qualifications

• Experience in high-end service settings preferred.
• Ability to manage multiple phone lines and guest requests.
• Knowledge of OpenTable reservation system and seating flows.
• Strong communication with guests, managers and kitchen staff.

Responsibilities

• Deliver the Zingerman’s Roadhouse experience to guests.
• Lead host team on shift and assist with door runner duties.
• Provide accurate wait times and manage reservations and seating.
• Maintain neat work area and assist with side work and huddles.

Skills

Customer service

Phone handling

Reservations OpenTable

Team leadership

Tools

OpenTable reservations

Job description

Description

Part-time/Full-time; All shifts available. Must be available on weekends & holidays

Wage: $13-14/hr + tips (avg $18-$20/hour+)

Performance Expectations

The Host/Lead Host is responsible for delivering the Zingerman’s Roadhouse experience to all guests and reports directly to the Restaurant Managers and leads the other hosts on shift.

Essential Functions:

• Arrives on time for all shifts, meetings, and classes.
• Follows the training compact and takes responsibility for his or her training.
• Follows the three steps to great service, the four steps to order accuracy and the five steps to handling a customer complaint.
• Gives great service over the phone and is able to handle multiple phone lines.
• Responsible for reviewing all reservations and being prepared in advance of their arrival including accommodating requests
• Give accurate wait times to guests in order to maximize business and minimize wait
• Keep cover counts equitable across the serving staff whenever possible
• Provide great internal service to all staff (with a focus on servant leadership)
• Has advanced knowledge of OpenTable reservation system, able to plot tables in advance, correctly give wait times and make judgment calls regarding reservations.
• Understands the flow of seating and has positive communication with the managers and the kitchen.
• Responsible for accurate cash handling
• Is a leader in collecting, connecting and communicating guest information and reservation details to the appropriate service provider.
• Carries themselves with confidence, gives positive first and last impressions to guests.
• Positively responds to requests for help from guests, managers, and staff.
• Is knowledgeable about the menu and is able to answer questions about the menu, is able to complete a Roadhouse menu tour.
• Knowledgeable about upcoming special dinners and private events.
• Maintains neat workspace; thoroughly checks running and closing sidework of all
• members of the host team on any given shift and completes all assigned door runner side work.
• Effectively and consistently delegates tasks to the rest of the host team, asking for help from leaders and other staff when appropriate.
• Attends and participates in weekly huddles and/or is responsible for knowing Roadhouse key measures and numbers.
• Follows the staff member guidelines.

Success Patterns

The ideal candidate for this position:

• Has one to three years experience as a door runner/maître d’ in a high-end service environment (prerequisite for Lead Host)
• Has a reputation for excellent relations with guests and front and back of house staff.
• Has worked effectively as part of a team.
• Has successfully managed guest’s dining experience in a fast-paced environment.

Desired Personal Characteristics:

• Passionate about great food and great service.
• Interest in learning about food, people, business.
• Self-motivated, especially under pressure.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team.
• Able to effectively manage their emotions in the workplace.
• Communicates effectively and efficiently.
• Detail-oriented.
• Can handle complexity and paradox.
• Strong organizational skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Bold! Engaging! Entertaining!

Physical Demands:

• Bending, stooping, and being positioned upright for long periods at a time
• Must be able to safely lift up to 50 lbs.
• Must be able to balance and relocate a tray with drinks and/or dishes