Job Specification | Host Trainer

🎯 Role Definition

The Host Trainer is a cornerstone of our front-of-house (FOH) operations, acting as a dedicated mentor, subject matter expert, and brand ambassador. This role is responsible for the comprehensive onboarding, training, and ongoing development of all new and existing members of the host team. The Host Trainer ensures that every guest's first and last impression is exceptional by instilling our service standards, operational procedures, and culture of hospitality in every team member. This individual is a leader by example, demonstrating unparalleled professionalism and a genuine passion for creating memorable dining experiences.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Senior or Lead Host/Hostess
High-Performing Server or Bartender with leadership potential
Shift Supervisor

Advancement To:

Restaurant Manager or Assistant General Manager
Corporate or Regional Training Manager
Guest Relations Manager

Lateral Moves:

Event Coordinator
FOH Supervisor
Bar Manager

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Execute the complete onboarding and training curriculum for all newly hired hosts, covering everything from initial greetings to fond farewells, ensuring a consistent and elevated guest experience.
Provide in-depth, hands-on instruction on the restaurant's reservation management software (e.g., OpenTable, Resy) and Point of Sale (POS) system, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
Develop, refine, and maintain all training documentation, including manuals, checklists, job aids, and certification materials, to keep content current with evolving standards and technologies.
Personally validate and certify the proficiency of each trainee, ensuring they meet and exceed all performance benchmarks before they are cleared to work independently.
Act as a floor coach during service, providing real-time, constructive feedback and positive reinforcement to the host team to cultivate skills and correct service deviations.
Serve as the ultimate subject matter expert on all FOH policies, service standards, and operational best practices, and be the go-to resource for team member questions.
Continuously monitor host team performance during shifts, identifying individual and team-wide training needs and reporting observations to the management team.
Lead engaging and informative orientation sessions that immerse new hires in our company's unique culture, mission, and core values of hospitality.
Conduct specialized training modules on menu knowledge, including daily features, allergen awareness, and ingredient details, to empower hosts to confidently address guest inquiries.
Partner with the restaurant management team to diagnose performance gaps and design targeted training interventions or refresher courses to elevate team capabilities.
Meticulously track and document the progress of all trainees, preparing regular performance summaries and certification status reports for leadership review.
Facilitate role-playing exercises that cover a wide range of guest interactions, including managing difficult conversations, handling complaints with grace, and accommodating special requests.
Champion the flawless execution of the guest arrival and departure sequence, ensuring every guest feels welcomed, valued, and appreciated throughout their visit.
Train the team on effective and professional communication strategies for interacting with guests, support staff, and managers to ensure a seamless flow of information and service.
Uphold and educate on all critical safety and sanitation standards, including responsible alcohol service guidelines, to ensure a safe and compliant environment for guests and staff.
Spearhead the training and communication efforts for new company-wide initiatives, seasonal menu updates, or system rollouts to ensure smooth and consistent implementation.
Systematically evaluate the impact and effectiveness of all training programs through trainee feedback, key performance indicators (KPIs), and direct observation, making data-driven adjustments.
Embody the highest standards of professionalism, positivity, and hospitality, acting as a motivational mentor and positive role model for the entire FOH team.
Manage and coordinate the training schedules for new and existing staff, balancing training needs with the operational demands of the restaurant.
Instruct the team on mastering professional phone etiquette, from accurately taking complex reservations and messages to clearly communicating restaurant information.
Participate actively in the recruitment and interview process for host candidates, offering valuable insight into a candidate's potential for success and cultural fit.

Secondary Functions

Support ad-hoc training requests from management for cross-training initiatives or specialized skill development.
Contribute to the restaurant's overall service improvement strategy and brainstorming sessions aimed at enhancing guest satisfaction.
Collaborate with the management team and culinary leaders to refine front-of-house operational workflows for greater efficiency.
Participate in daily pre-shift meetings to highlight training points, communicate service goals, and celebrate team successes.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Reservation System Proficiency: Expert-level knowledge of modern reservation platforms like OpenTable, Resy, or SevenRooms.
POS System Expertise: Deep familiarity with restaurant POS systems such as Toast, Aloha, or Micros, including front-end and basic reporting functions.
Curriculum Development: Ability to create, update, and organize engaging training materials, manuals, and certification tests.
Performance Tracking: Skill in observing, documenting, and reporting on trainee progress and performance metrics.
Waitlist & Seating Strategy: Advanced understanding of floor management, table turn optimization, and strategic guest seating.
Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with local health codes, food safety standards, and responsible alcohol service regulations.

Soft Skills

Exceptional Communication: Articulate, clear, and engaging verbal and written communication skills for one-on-one coaching and group presentations.
Patience & Empathy: The ability to patiently guide new learners, understand different learning styles, and provide supportive feedback.
Leadership & Mentoring: A natural ability to inspire, motivate, and guide team members toward achieving excellence and professional growth.
Public Speaking/Presentation: Confidence and skill in presenting information to groups in a clear, engaging, and effective manner.
Problem-Solving & Conflict Resolution: The capacity to think quickly, de-escalate guest issues, and find effective solutions under pressure.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adjust training methods and schedules to meet the dynamic needs of the restaurant and individual trainees.
Keen Observational Skills: The ability to notice subtle details in service execution and team member behavior to provide precise feedback.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

High School Diploma or equivalent GED.

Preferred Education:

Associate's or Bachelor's Degree.
Certified Hospitality Trainer (CHT) or similar professional certification.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Hospitality Management
Business Administration
Communications or Education

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

2-4 years of experience in a high-volume, upscale casual, or fine-dining restaurant environment.

Preferred:

A minimum of 1 year of direct experience in a training-specific role (e.g., Department Trainer, Certified Trainer) or a front-of-house leadership position (e.g., Lead Host, FOH Supervisor). Experience within a structured corporate training program is highly valued.