Hospitality Specialist

ABOUT THE ROLE:

The XAI Hospitality team serves all employees, customers, government partners, potential clients and/or visitors with everything from snacks to daily meals to full-service events. The Hospitality Specialist enhances the overall guest experience across one or more of our food service outlets or catering locations by upholding exceptional standards of hospitality. They must possess a deep knowledge of hospitality principles and a solid grasp of food and beverage safety protocols. Collaborating closely with hospitality leadership, this role focuses on crafting unforgettable moments for guests through flawless service, while maintaining rigorous standards and expectations. The specialist is empowered to promptly resolve guest concerns or feedback, troubleshoot equipment challenges, apply creative problem-solving, and communicate effectively at all levels. The Hospitality Specialist supports XAI’s mission by upholding exemplary, professional and welcoming service environments that enhance the productivity and morale of the workforce while ensuring the team is performing to departmental and company standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES: 

• Execute services and catering/event requests, following detailed schedules and timelines, ensuring absolute guest satisfaction
• Support the setup, execution and breakdown of services/events including workstations, surrounding areas, dining, work, and storage spaces; ensuring safety and organization
• Collaborate with a team to meet time and quality standards set by leadership while working with urgency
• Assist in organization, cleaning and maintenance on departmental tools, equipment, and food service areas
• Complete daily record keeping, tasks, and opening/closing checklists
• Interact professionally with guests, supervisors, and co-workers
• Engage with guests through strong customer service, clearly communicating operational expectations, anticipating their needs and exceeding expectations
• Maintain proper safety guidelines and food safety/sanitation practices  
• Participate in the training of all Hospitality roles and responsibilities, filling in for roles as needed

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate 
• 4+ years of food service experience in customer service role

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• 2+ years of leadership experience
• 7+ years of food service experience in customer service role
• Self-motivated and takes initiative in a dynamic, fast-paced environment 
• Previous work experience in a high-volume output environment 
• Previous work experience in team settings 
• Advanced understanding of food safety and sanitation practices 
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office primarily)
• Advanced knowledge with allergen identification and dietary restrictions 
• Willingness to participate in internal leadership and development training

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to carry large, heavy items unassisted (up to 25lbs) 
• Must have valid driver's license
• Must have the ability to stand for long periods – up to 8-12 hours a day. 
• Able to perform frequent bending, stooping, and lifting of objects through entire shift 
• Must be able to work all shifts and available for overtime, weekends and holiday(s) as needed 
• Must have or obtain CA Food Handlers card (training provided internally as needed)

ITAR REQUIREMENTS:

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.