Chilis Host/Hostess

Saint Paul, MN, USA|

Job Overview

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

Holiday pay

Meal and Transportation Benefits

401(k) retirement plan

Life insurance

Tuition Reimbursement

Employee assistance program

training and career growth opportunities

Referral program

Job Description

HMSHost is a renowned global leader in food and beverage services for travelers, operating primarily in airports, highways, and travel plaza locations. The company is part of the Avolta group, which also includes Dufry, Hudson, and other affiliated brands. Known for providing excellent customer service and high-quality dining experiences, HMSHost offers a wide range of opportunities for professionals seeking growth in the hospitality and foodservice industries. With a focus on career development, the company invests in employee training, supports advancement opportunities, and maintains inclusive, respectful workplace policies. HMSHost is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and drug-free work environment, welcoming individuals from varied backgrounds including minorities, females, disabled persons, and veterans.

The Host/Hostess role at HMSHost is vital for creating first impressions and ensuring that guests receive warm, efficient service from the moment they enter the restaurant. This non-exempt position typically reports directly to the Store Manager and involves a multifaceted set of responsibilities centered on guest reception, seating arrangements, and overall dining room preparation. Hosts and hostesses play a key role in maintaining smooth flow within the restaurant, including managing the seating chart accurately, coordinating with kitchen and floor staff, and handling guest inquiries or reservations.

Additionally, the Host/Hostess may assist by performing various support duties such as cashing out guests, refilling beverages, rolling silverware, cleaning, and preparing to-go orders during periods of downtime. This role demands excellent organizational skills, the ability to multitask efficiently, and a friendly, approachable demeanor to interact positively with guests and colleagues. HMSHost offers a competitive package that includes health, dental, and vision insurance, generous paid time off, holiday pay, meal and transportation benefits, a 401(k) retirement plan with company match, company-paid life insurance, tuition reimbursement, employee assistance programs, career training, and a referral bonus program. All these benefits underscore the company’s commitment to employee well-being and professional growth.

This position is ideal for individuals who enjoy fast-paced environments, have strong customer service skills, and are eager to contribute to delivering memorable dining experiences. HMSHost’s supportive culture and focus on teamwork mean the Host/Hostess not only welcomes guests but also plays an integral role in the overall success and smooth operation of the restaurant. To succeed, candidates must be able to multitask, communicate clearly, and uphold HMSHost’s high standards of service and safety.

Job Requirements

customer service experience preferred
cash handling experience preferred
excellent organization skills
ability to read and interpret restaurant’s seating chart
demonstrates the ability to interact with the public and coworkers in a friendly, enthusiastic and outgoing manner
ability to bend, twist, and stand to perform normal job functions
requires the ability to speak, read and comprehend instructions, short correspondence and policy documents, as well as converse comfortably with customers

Job Qualifications

customer service experience preferred
cash handling experience preferred
excellent organization skills
ability to read and interpret restaurant’s seating chart
demonstrates the ability to interact with the public and coworkers in a friendly, enthusiastic and outgoing manner

Job Duties

maintains consistent attention to the entrance of the restaurant and welcomes all guests with a smile and appropriate greeting following hmshost customer service standards
records customer reservations or seating times in a consistent manner providing the highest quality of service to the customer at all times
maintains and updates restaurant seating charts
proper set up and maintenance of the dining room areas before serving
assists with maintaining sufficient stock of roll up silverware for the incoming shift
seats guests and advises them on menus and beverage choices based on required in-depth knowledge
oversees the delivery and servicing of food and beverages
liaises between kitchen staff and floor staff to ensure the guests’ experience meets concept/company standards
performs the tasks of the cashier and/or bus person as required including cashing out guests checks to speed up service
understands and follows hmshost cash handling policies and procedures and maintain proper security of cash at all times
patrols assigned station, refilling water and coffee, removing service items and condiments per establishment procedures
performs other duties in a team effort during downtime which may include rolling silverware, expediting food orders, washing dishes, preparing food for the to-go areas and properly cleaning and filling table condiments (salt & pepper, sugar, napkins, ketchup and mustard bottles)