Host/Hostess

Compensation Type

Hourly

Highgate Hotels

Highgate is a premier real estate investment and hospitality management company widely recognized as an innovator in the industry. Highgate is the dominant player in U.S. gateway markets including New York, Boston, Miami, San Francisco and Honolulu, with a rapidly expanding presence in Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Highgate’s portfolio of global properties represents an aggregate asset value exceeding $20B and generates over $5B in cumulative revenues. The company provides expert guidance through all stages of the hospitality property cycle, from planning and development through recapitalization or disposition.  Highgate also has the creativity and bandwidth to develop bespoke hotel brands and utilizes industry-leading proprietary revenue management tools that identify and predict evolving market dynamics to drive out performance and maximize asset value. With an executive team consisting of some of the industry’s most experienced hotel management leaders, the company is a trusted partner for top ownership groups and major hotel brands. Highgate maintains corporate offices in London, New York, Dallas, and Seattle.

Location

One of the longest-standing hotels in Downtown L.A., Hotel Figueroa recently completed a stunning restoration by award-winning design agency Studio Collective. Hotel Figueroa’s fierce spirit is now matched with modern touches, all while respecting the property’s original footprint and Spanish Colonial design.

The hotel boasts 268 rooms and suites, five F&B outlets and a landscaped courtyard featuring its iconic coffin-shaped pool. Hotel Figueroa’s vibrant arts program includes rotating art exhibits showcasing the works of L.A.’s most compelling female artists — an homage to its founding in 1926 as the largest project to have been financed, owned and operated by women. 

Overview

The Restaurant Host/Hostess is the first point of contact for guests dining in the hotel restaurant. This individual warmly welcomes guests, manages seating assignments, and ensures an exceptional first and last impression. The host/hostess plays a key role in creating a welcoming, organized, and smooth-flowing dining experience while supporting the restaurant team with a high level of guest service and professionalism.

Responsibilities

Responsibilities

• Greet guests with a warm, friendly, and professional demeanor as they arrive.

• Manage guest flow and seating assignments using a floor chart or reservation system (e.g., OpenTable).

• Accurately take and confirm reservations by phone, email, or in-person.

• Communicate estimated wait times and manage the waitlist efficiently.

• Escort guests to their assigned tables and provide menus and server introductions when appropriate.

• Maintain cleanliness and presentation of the host stand, entry area, and lobby space.

• Monitor table turnover and coordinate with servers and bussers to maximize table efficiency.

• Respond to guest inquiries regarding menu offerings, restaurant hours, and hotel amenities.

• Communicate effectively with servers, management, and kitchen staff regarding guest needs, VIPs, or special occasions.

• Assist with to-go orders and guest requests when needed.

• Follow all hotel policies, procedures, and food safety standards.

• Perform other duties as requested by management.

Qualifications

Qualifications

• Strong multitasking and prioritization abilities.

• Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.

• Professional appearance and demeanor that aligns with brand standards.

• Ability to remain composed, friendly, and service-oriented under pressure.

• Demonstrated work ethic with attention to detail and guest satisfaction.

• Ability to anticipate and respond to guest and operational needs proactively.

• High school diploma or equivalent required; hospitality or full-service restaurant experience preferred.

• Knowledge of basic restaurant operations and etiquette.

• Familiarity with cocktails, spirits, and wine.

• Experience with reservation systems (e.g., OpenTable, Resy) is a plus.

• Must be flexible and available to work nights, weekends, and holidays.

• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs occasionally.

• Must be able to communicate clearly and attentively with guests and team members at all levels.

• Must hold a valid CA RBS Alcohol Certification and ServSafe Food Handler’s Certification.