Founding Farmers is seeking an experienced and polished hospitality professional to lead the front-of-house guest experience at one of the DC area's most recognized, farmer-owned restaurants. We're looking for someone who brings genuine presence, operational expertise, and a passion for exceptional, people-first hospitality. We are seeking candidates who have previous experience working in a high-volume, full-service restaurant as a Reservation Coordinator, Head Host, or Host Manager. Weekend availability is A MUST and having OpenTable experience is a PLUS.
Hourly Pay: $25-$30 based on experience
WHAT YOU NEED TO BE A HEAD HOST:
- Minimum 1 year experience in a high-volume, full-service restaurant — upscale casual or fine dining preferred
- Demonstrated experience leading or mentoring a host or front-of-house team
- Expert-level proficiency with OpenTable or a comparable reservation platform
- A calm, commanding presence under pressure with the ability to manage a busy floor with grace
- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills with guests, staff, and management alike
- Deep appreciation for hospitality as a craft, and genuine pride in the guest experience
- Weekend availability is required
- Must be 18 or older
- Ability to stand for extended periods and perform the physical demands of the role
BENEFITS + PERKS:
- Competitive pay
- Health insurance plans available for as low as $130 per month after 90 days of employment
- Dental and vision plans
- Paid time off
- Discounted shift meal and generous dining discount
- Paid pregnancy and parental leave
- Voluntary benefits: short-term disability and accident insurance
- Free access to company massage therapist
- Discounted gym & yoga membership
- Free mental health therapy through our partner ComPsych, where employees and their immediate family members receive confidential sessions available virtually or in-person
- Training and career growth opportunities
- Free Employee Assistance Program with resources for legal, financial, and life needs
WHAT OUR HEAD HOST DOES:
- Serve as the first and last impression of the guest experience — setting the tone for every visit through polished, genuine hospitality
- Lead and support the host team, including coaching on guest service standards, communication, and floor flow
- Own the reservation and waitlist strategy, managing pacing and guest expectations with confidence and precision
- Manage all front-of-house systems using OpenTable, ensuring accurate, up-to-date reservation management throughout service
- Coordinate large party and special event seating logistics in partnership with managers and service staff
- Respond to guest requests and resolve concerns with professionalism and warmth
- Partner with the management team to maintain seamless communication and service flow throughout the restaurant
- Support dining room setup and maintenance, ensuring the space is guest-ready at all times
- Assist with to-go order accuracy and guest pickup experience
- Contribute to retail touchpoints including chocolate and coffee sales
- Additional duties as required
Farmers Restaurant Group was voted as one of the Best Places to Work across the Greater Washington, D.C. area. As a member of our team, you will be working in a lively, fast-paced work environment within a growing farmer-owned restaurant company that cares about great food and drink, thoughtful sourcing, preserving our lands and waterways for future generations, and creating a culture of never-ending learning and reinvention for our employees. No matter where you work in our company, you are on a career path with challenges and opportunities for continued professional development and growth, and we are committed to your health and overall well-being.
