Host

Location: San Simeon, CA
Position Type: Part-Time Hourly
Schedule: Monday through Wednesday Specific & Saturday/Sunday Specific

About the Role

The Host is the first voice and first face of Hearst Ranch Winery. Every guest experience begins at the podium, and the quality of that first interaction helps shape the entire visit.

This role is responsible for managing reservations, greeting and seating guests, gathering guest information that allows the service team to personalize each tasting experience, and serving as a key point of communication for both guests and staff. A successful Host creates a welcoming, organized, and seamless experience from arrival through seating, ensuring every guest feels valued and cared for.

Responsibilities:

Guest Experience & Reservations

• Greet every guest warmly and promptly upon arrival.
• Manage reservations using Tock and maintain an organized reservation flow.
• Print reservation chits and personally escort guests to their tables.
• Accommodate walk-in guests by seating them when available or managing waitlists professionally.
• Explain the tasting experience, amenities, and food service offerings.

Guest Communication & Team Handoff

• Engage guests in conversation to learn about their visit, interests, and prior experience with Hearst Ranch Winery.
• Communicate relevant guest information to the serving team to support personalized hospitality.
• Ensure smooth transitions between the Host stand and service team.

Phone & Administrative Support

• Answer incoming calls professionally and assist with reservation inquiries.
• Monitor and return voicemail messages in a timely manner.
• Communicate current offerings, events, and daily updates to guests as needed.

Opening & Closing Responsibilities

• Complete daily opening and closing duties, including preparation of guest areas, reservation management, cash handling, and general facility readiness.
• Assist with team coordination, reservation briefings, and end-of-day reporting.
• Help maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming tasting room environment.

Qualifications:

Required

• RBS Certificate (Active)
• Previous experience in hospitality, restaurant, retail, or another guest-facing role.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Ability to multitask and remain composed in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable using reservation systems, tablets, and point-of-sale software.
• Dependable, punctual, and available to work weekends, holidays, and special events.

Preferred

• Wine, winery, or tasting room experience.
• Familiarity with the Central Coast wine region.
• Bilingual or multilingual communication skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Frequent use of phones, tablets, reservation systems, and POS equipment.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 20 pounds occasionally.
• Ability to work in both indoor and outdoor environments as needed.

Why Join Hearst Ranch Winery?

At Hearst Ranch Winery, hospitality is at the center of everything we do. Our team is passionate about creating memorable experiences for guests while showcasing exceptional wines and the unique story of the Central Coast. If you enjoy connecting with people, thrive in a dynamic environment, and take pride in delivering outstanding service, we'd love to hear from you.

Pay: $18.00 per hour plus tips DOE

Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour

Work Location: In person