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Hostess Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

... Hostess is the first person the guest sees and the last: you are the face of the restaurant! As a host/hostess, you will be a member of a cohesive team that supports each other's success in a fast ...

... Hostess is the first person the guest sees and the last: you are the face of the restaurant! As a host/hostess, you will be a member of a cohesive team that supports each other's success in a fast ...

Host/Hostess

Annapolis, MD · On-site

$16/hr

... Hostess is the first person the guest sees and the last: you are the face of the restaurant! As a host/hostess, you will be a member of a cohesive team that supports each other's success in a fast ...

... Hostess is the first person the guest sees and the last: you are the face of the restaurant! As a host/hostess, you will be a member of a cohesive team that supports each other's success in a fast ...

... Hostess is the first person the guest sees and the last: you are the face of the restaurant! As a host/hostess, you will be a member of a cohesive team that supports each other's success in a fast ...

... Hostess is the first person the guest sees and the last: you are the face of the restaurant! As a host/hostess, you will be a member of a cohesive team that supports each other's success in a fast ...

... or Hostess, you will be responsible for greeting guests and seating them promptly, cheerfully and courteously. Duties of this position include, seating guests, answering the phone, taking, entering ...

Host/Hostess

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$15 - $18/hr

... Hostess to join the team at our thriving restaurant. In this role, you will welcome guests, lead them to their seats, and inform them of any specials. Your goal is to quickly build rapport with ...

... or Hostess, you will be responsible for greeting guests and seating them promptly, cheerfully and courteously. Duties of this position include, seating guests, answering the phone, taking, entering ...

... or Hostess, you will be responsible for greeting guests and seating them promptly, cheerfully and courteously. Duties of this position include, seating guests, answering the phone, taking, entering ...

Host/Hostess

Reston, VA

$12.77 - $17/hr

A Host will engage in friendly conversation when seating guests and introducing the server. A Host manages the restaurant waiting list during high volume to accurately set guest expectations and ...

Host/Hostess

Reston, VA

$12.77 - $17/hr

A Host will engage in friendly conversation when seating guests and introducing the server. A Host manages the restaurant waiting list during high volume to accurately set guest expectations and ...

Host/Hostess

Brandywine, MD · On-site

$15 - $16/hr

... Hostess to join the team at our thriving restaurant. In this role, you will welcome guests, lead them to their seats, and inform them of any specials. Your goal is to quickly build rapport with ...

... Hostess Job Location Uno's Alexandria, VA 22315 Job Category: Server, Waiter / Waitress Description: Full-Time or Part-time We are a company that takes a lot of pride in our history. We are ...

... or Hostess, you will be responsible for greeting guests and seating them promptly, cheerfully and courteously. Duties of this position include, seating guests, answering the phone, taking, entering ...

... or Hostess, you will be responsible for greeting guests and seating them promptly, cheerfully and courteously. Duties of this position include, seating guests, answering the phone, taking, entering ...

Host/Hostess

Reston, VA · On-site

$12.77 - $17/hr

A Host will engage in friendly conversation when seating guests and introducing the server A Host manages the restaurant waiting list during high volume to accurately set guest expectations and ...

A Host will engage in friendly conversation when seating guests and introducing the server. A Host manages the restaurant waiting list during high volume to accurately set guest expectations and ...

Host/Hostess

Washington, DC · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Bammy's Modern Caribbean Restaurant is looking for Hostess to join our team and be the first point of contact for our guests. Host/Hostess responsibilities include: * Greeting guests, providing ...

Host/Hostess

Washington, DC · On-site

$18.40 - $25/hr

A Host will engage in friendly conversation when seating guests and introducing the server. A Host manages the restaurant waiting list during high volume to accurately set guest expectations and ...

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Hostess information

See Washington salary details

$8

$16

$22

How much do hostess jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for hostess in Washington is $16.05, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.08 and $18.22 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a hostess?

Hostesses are hospitality professionals responsible for greeting guests as they enter restaurants, events, or other venues. They manage reservations, seat guests, provide menus, and ensure guests feel welcome and comfortable. Hostesses often coordinate with servers and other staff to maintain smooth operations and may assist with customer inquiries or special requests. Their primary goal is to create a positive first impression and help deliver excellent customer service.

What does a hostess do?

A host or hostess is the face of the restaurant, often positioned near the entrance. They greet guests when they arrive at the restaurant, seat them at a table, and provide them with menus. As the first and often the last employee that patrons see, the host's or hostess’s primary responsibility is to provide excellent customer service throughout their shift. Welcoming guests with a smile, informing them of their wait time for a table, and checking on them regularly to make sure they are receiving efficient service from their servers are all essential duties for this position. The host or hostess also distributes patrons evenly among the wait staff to ensure a fair workload for employees and enables guests to be served their meals and drinks quickly.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a hostess, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Hostess, you need strong interpersonal skills, organizational abilities, and a customer-focused mindset, often supported by a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with reservation software, point-of-sale (POS) systems, and basic computer skills is typically required. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for creating a positive first impression, efficiently managing guest flow, and ensuring smooth restaurant operations.

What are some common challenges a hostess might face during busy shifts, and how can they be managed?

During peak hours, hostesses often encounter challenges such as managing long waitlists, handling impatient guests, and coordinating efficiently with servers and kitchen staff. Staying organized, maintaining clear communication, and remaining calm under pressure are crucial for success. Most restaurants provide training on reservation systems and customer service skills to help hostesses navigate busy shifts effectively and ensure a positive guest experience.

What is the difference between Hostess vs Waitstaff?

AspectHostessWaitstaff
Primary RoleGreets and seats guests, manages reservationsServes food and beverages, takes orders
Required SkillsCustomer service, communication, organizationCustomer service, multitasking, menu knowledge
Work EnvironmentFront of house, reception areaDining area, service stations
Common CertificationsNone required, but hospitality experience helpfulFood handler permits may be required

While both Hostess and Waitstaff work in the hospitality industry, the Hostess primarily manages guest seating and reservations, acting as the first point of contact. The Waitstaff focuses on serving food and drinks, ensuring customer satisfaction during the meal. Both roles require excellent customer service skills, but their responsibilities and work environments differ significantly.

Is a hostess a hard job?

A hostess job involves greeting and seating guests, managing reservations, and providing customer service in a fast-paced environment. It requires good communication skills, patience, and the ability to handle busy periods, but it is generally considered an entry-level position with moderate physical and social demands.

What qualifications do you need to be a hostess?

To be a hostess, strong communication and customer service skills are essential, along with a friendly demeanor and the ability to handle multiple tasks. Some employers prefer previous experience in hospitality or customer service, and a high school diploma or equivalent is typically sufficient; additional training on restaurant procedures may be provided.

What are the most commonly searched types of Hostess jobs in Washington?

The most popular types of Hostess jobs in Washington are:

What are popular job titles related to Hostess jobs in Washington?

For Hostess jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Hostess jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Hostess jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Hostess jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Hostess job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Hostess jobs in WA?

For Hostess jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Hostess job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,384 per year, or $16.1 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago


Melting Pot rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 33 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

35th of 88 rated restaurants


Job description

 Host/Hostess is the first person the guest sees and the last: you are the face of the restaurant! As a host/hostess, you will be a member of a cohesive team that supports each other's success in a fast-paced environment.


What you will do:

  • Understand our Guest-Obsessed culture and do whatever it takes to create a positive and memorable guest experience.
  • Welcome guests warmly by opening the door, smiling, and making eye contact as they enter the restaurant
  • Seat guests at their own pace, handing the appropriate menu(s) to each guest after they're seated.
  • Communicate with servers and managers regarding availability of tables, seating of large parties, or special requests so that guests receive seamless service.
  • Handle guests' complaints by listening to their concerns, always informing a manager, and resolving issues PLUS ONE to ensure overall guest satisfaction.


Perks of the job:

  • Great pay
  • Flexible schedules
  • Growth opportunities


Host/Hostess is responsible for serving our guests with unparalleled hospitality to create unforgettable experiences every day! If this sounds like you, please apply today!


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