About Company
Nestled on the picturesque shores of New London, Connecticut, Ocean Beach Park is more than just a beach – it’s a beloved community treasure and a premier recreational destination. For generations, families and individuals have flocked to our award-winning park to enjoy pristine sands, refreshing waters, a classic boardwalk, miniature golf, an Olympic-sized pool, and a variety of dining options. Our commitment extends beyond recreation to providing exceptional hospitality, ensuring every guest experience is delightful and memorable. We pride ourselves on fostering a fun, vibrant, and inclusive environment for both our visitors and our dedicated team members. Joining Ocean Beach Park means becoming part of a legacy, contributing to the joy of thousands, and working in a truly unique setting where the ocean breeze is your daily companion. We believe in teamwork, respect, and delivering outstanding service, making Ocean Beach Park a fantastic place to grow your career in hospitality.
Job Description
Are you a naturally warm, organized, and energetic individual who thrives on making people feel welcome? Ocean Beach Park is seeking a dedicated and charismatic Restaurant Host to join our dynamic Guest Services team. As the first point of contact for our valued guests, you will play a pivotal role in shaping their dining experience, ensuring every visit is memorable from the moment they step through our doors. This isn’t just about seating; it’s about orchestrating a seamless flow, managing reservations with precision, anticipating needs, and maintaining an inviting atmosphere that reflects the vibrant spirit of Ocean Beach Park. We are looking for someone who genuinely enjoys engaging with people, possesses exceptional communication skills, and remains composed and professional in a fast-paced environment. If you’re passionate about hospitality and eager to contribute to a beloved local landmark, we invite you to help us create extraordinary moments for our visitors and ensure their time with us is nothing short of fantastic. Your role will be crucial in setting the tone for their visit and ensuring a smooth, enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Key Responsibilities
- Warmly greeting and seating guests upon arrival, managing waitlists efficiently, and providing accurate wait time estimates.
- Managing reservations systems, ensuring timely seating and effective table turnover while accommodating guest preferences.
- Answering incoming calls professionally, addressing guest inquiries, and assisting with general information about the park's offerings and dining options.
- Monitoring dining room activity to support servers and bussers, identifying and addressing potential issues proactively to maintain service flow.
- Maintaining cleanliness and organization at the host stand and entrance area, ensuring a welcoming first impression.
- Communicating effectively and regularly with kitchen staff and servers to ensure smooth service flow and guest satisfaction.
- Assisting with opening and closing duties as needed, including setting up and breaking down the dining area.
- Handling guest feedback and complaints with grace and efficiency, escalating complex issues to management as appropriate.
- Providing recommendations and insights to enhance the guest experience, showcasing knowledge of menu items, daily specials, and park events.
- Upholding all health, safety, and hygiene standards diligently.
Required Skills
- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal.
- A positive, friendly, and professional demeanor that radiates warmth and hospitality.
- Ability to remain calm, efficient, and composed in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment.
- Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with keen attention to detail.
- Basic computer proficiency for reservation systems and general administrative tasks.
- Availability to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and evenings as per operational needs.
- Physical ability to stand for extended periods and move around the dining area comfortably.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in a host or customer service role, preferably in a restaurant or hospitality setting.
- Familiarity with reservation software (e.g., OpenTable, Resy, or similar platforms).
- High school diploma or equivalent educational background.
- Multilingual abilities (e.g., Spanish) are a plus, enhancing communication with a diverse guest base.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage commensurate with experience.
- Opportunity to work in a beautiful, beachfront setting with stunning views.
- Employee discounts on various park amenities and delicious food offerings.
- A supportive, collaborative, and team-oriented work environment.
- Opportunities for growth and development within Ocean Beach Park's diverse operations.
- Flexible scheduling options to accommodate personal needs where possible.
- Be part of a historic and beloved New England destination, contributing to its legacy.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply directly through our official employment portal. Please click on the application link below to submit your resume and cover letter. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the Ocean Beach Park family!