Host

HostPosition Type: Part-TimeCompensation: $15.00/hourSchedule: 10:15 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. or 3:30 p.m.- 8:00 p.m.About Mount Vernon

Mount Vernon, the former home of George and Martha Washington, is owned and maintained by the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association of the Union, the oldest national historic preservation organization in the United States.

Founded in 1853 by Ann Pamela Cunningham, the Mount Vernon Ladies’ Association pioneered the preservation of a historic American site for future generations. Today, the Association works to preserve, restore, and manage the Mount Vernon estate to the highest standards while educating visitors and people around the world about the life and legacies of George Washington.

Position Summary

If you have a passion for hospitality, connecting with people, and serving great food, then the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant, which serves Mount Vernon Estate's visitors and the surrounding area, is currently looking for Hosts to join our team!

Hosts are responsible for positive guest and client relations, coordination, and implementation of food service - including seating guests, communicating back to the host stand tables that are finished with meals or almost finished, and communicating back to the host stand tables that are clean and ready to be seated again. Sometimes the host might also assist the Server Assistants by refilling beverages and water, running food to the tables, and assisting in resetting and bussing tables.

Essential Duties

• Responsible for positive guest and public relations

• Request information from guests in order to seat them properly, i.e., number in group, any special requests, or needs (ie. high chairs)

• Escort guests to the table and offer menus

• If appropriate, administer a waiting list system to include:

• Provide estimated waiting time to guests

• Request name and number in group

• Call for the party

• Escort guests to a table

• Coordinate with management on the placement of groups with reservations

• Prepare the menus for the shift

• Assists with new employee training

• Conduct all work in accordance with the Association’s and the Inn’s procedures and guidelines

• Work independently and with minimal supervision

• Perform other related duties as requested by immediate supervisor

Requirements

• Excellent verbal communication skills

• Great interpersonal and teamwork skills

• Ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment

• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays

• Willingness to perform additional duties to facilitate the restaurant's operations, as needed

Special Requirements

• May be required to stand or walk for extended periods of time

• May be required to lift upwards of 20 lbs

Work Environment

This role takes place in a busy restaurant or café setting, involving regular interaction with guests and coworkers. The pace is fast and dynamic, particularly during meal service times. Noise levels can be moderate to high.

Physical Requirements

Requires prolonged standing and walking, carrying trays, reaching, and bending. Must be able to lift and carry items up to 25 pounds. Clear verbal communication and customer service skills are essential. The role also involves handling food and beverages.

Benefits:

• 403(b) Retirement plan with employer matching

• Employee recognition at 5 years of service

• Monthly employee events

• Employee referral program

• Flexible work schedule

• On-site Library

• Discount on Public Event Tickets

• Discount in the Mount Vernon Shops

• Discount at the Mount Vernon Inn and Food Court Pavilion

• Free parking

Mount Vernon is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we are committed to building and retaining a team that represents a variety of skills, experiences, and perspectives. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements, performance, and qualifications without regard to race, religion or belief, national or ethnic origin, gender/sex (including pregnancy), age, physical, mental or sensory disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, veteran and military status, family or parental status, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law. Mount Vernon will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.