Lobby Ambassador
Company : Highgate
Location : San Francisco, CA, 94133
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 7 January 2026
Compensation Type
HourlyHighgate Hotels
Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $15 billion of assets under management and a global portfolio of more than 400 hotels spanning North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
With a 30-year track record as an innovator in the hospitality industry, this forward-thinking company provides expert guidance through all stages of the property cycle, from planning and development through recapitalization or disposition. Highgate continues to demonstrate success in developing a diverse portfolio of bespoke lifestyle hotel brands, legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts, featuring contemporary programming and digital acumen. The company utilizes industry-leading revenue management tools that efficiently identify and predict evolving market dynamics to drive outperformance and maximize asset value.
With an executive team of seasoned hospitality leaders and corporate offices worldwide, Highgate is a trusted partner for top ownership groups and major hotel brands. www.highgate.com
Location
Hotel Caza (formerly Holiday Inn Fisherman's Wharf) recently completed an expansive renovation – this family-friendly boutique-style hotel embodies the spirit of California and provides plenty of fun, warmth and authentic experiences. Centrally located in historic Fisherman’s Wharf, Hotel Caza is just steps away from the waterfront, Pier 39 and Lombard Street. The property provides easy access to Embarcadero and North Beach’s acclaimed dining and entertainment.
Overview
The Lobby Ambassador is responsible for providing attentive, courteous and efficient service to all guests during check-in, throughout their stay, and at checkout, while maximizing room revenue and occupancy.
Responsibilities
- Greet and welcome all guests approaching the Front Desk in accordance with Highgate Hotel standards.
- Maintain proper operation of the PBX console and ensure that all hotel standards are met (if applicable).
- Answer guest inquires about hotel services, facilities and hours of operation in a timely manner.
- Ensure logging and delivery of packages, mail and messages to guests and meeting rooms.
- Review Front Office log and Trace File daily.
- Answer inquiries from guests regarding restaurants, transportation, entertainment, etc.
- Load and unload luggage carts and assist guests with the tagging, storing and retrieving of luggage.
- Follow all cash handling and credit policies.
- Be aware of all rates, packages and special promotions as listed in the Red Book.
- Be familiar with all in-house groups.
- Be aware of closed out and restricted dates.
- Obtain all necessary information when taking room reservations and follow the rate-quoting scenario.
- Be familiar with hospitality terminology.
- Have knowledge of emergency procedures and assist as needed.
- Handle check-ins and checkouts in a friendly, efficient and courteous manner.
- Use proper two-way radio etiquette at all times when communicating with other employees.
- Fully comprehend and be able to operate all relevant aspects of the Front Desk computer system.
- Be able to perform and complete all tasks and duties on the shift checklist in a timely and efficient manner.
- Be able to complete a bucket check, room rate verification report, and housekeeping report.
- Balance and prepare individual paperwork for closing of shift according to hotel standards.
- Maintain and market promotions and guest programs.
- Maintain a clean work area.
- Assist guests with safe deposit boxes.
Qualifications
- College course work in related field helpful.
- Experience in a hotel or a related field preferred.
- High School diploma or equivalent required.
- Computer experience required.
- Customer Services experience preferred.
- Maintain a warm and friendly demeanor at all times.
- Must be able to effectively communicate both verbally and written, with all level of employees and guests in an attentive, friendly, courteous and service oriented manner.
- Must be effective at listening to, understanding, and clarifying concerns raised by employees and guests.
- Must be able to multitask and prioritize departmental functions to meet deadlines.
- Approach all encounters with guests and employees in an attentive, friendly, courteous and service-oriented manner.
- Attend all hotel required meetings and trainings.
- Maintain regular attendance in compliance with Highgate Hotel Standards, as required by scheduling, which will vary according to the needs of the hotel.
- Maintain high standards of personal appearance and grooming, which includes wearing the proper uniform and nametag.
- Comply with Highgate Hotel Standards and regulations to encourage safe and efficient hotel operations.
- Maximize efforts towards productivity, identify problem areas and assist in implementing solutions.
- Must be effective in handling problems, including anticipating, preventing, identifying and solving problems as necessary.
- Must be able to understand and apply complex information, data, etc. from various sources to meet appropriate objectives.
- Must be able to cross-train in other hotel related areas.
- Must be able to maintain confidentiality of information.
- Must be able to show initiative, including anticipating guest or operational needs.
- Perform other duties as requested by management.
- Flexible and long hours sometimes required.
- Light work - Exerting up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, and/or up to 10 pounds of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
- Ability to stand during entire shift.
Related Jobs
Top trending job titles hiring now
Frequently asked questions
Working as a Lobby Ambassador in San Francisco, especially near Fisherman's Wharf, means engaging with a diverse mix of tourists and locals, requiring strong knowledge of local attractions like Pier 39. The city's vibrant tourism demands quick adaptability and exceptional guest service attuned to the area’s unique culture.
Aspiring Lobby Ambassadors in San Francisco should develop strong multitasking abilities, excellent communication tailored to international guests, and familiarity with front desk systems. Knowledge of local transportation and dining spots also enhances guest interactions, crucial in this bustling tourist hub.
While formal certifications aren’t mandatory, hospitality-related courses and customer service training can enhance candidacy. Highgate values employees who grasp hospitality software, safety protocols, and guest engagement techniques, especially given their portfolio’s upscale boutique hotels.
Highgate offers a dynamic environment with access to innovative revenue management tools and a global network, providing Lobby Ambassadors career growth beyond local hospitality. Their emphasis on digital acumen and lifestyle brand hotels creates unique opportunities to refine guest service skills.
Highgate’s culture of innovation and guest-centered service means Lobby Ambassadors at Hotel Caza focus on personalized experiences, proactive problem-solving, and maintaining high operational standards. This environment fosters teamwork and encourages ambassadors to anticipate guest needs creatively.
Lobby Ambassadors in San Francisco usually earn between $17 to $22 per hour, reflecting the city’s competitive hospitality market and higher living costs. This range aims to balance fair compensation with the required skill set and guest service expectations in a premium tourist area.
Commuting to Fisherman’s Wharf can be challenging due to traffic and parking scarcity. Many employees opt for public transit like Muni buses or BART connections, which are reliable and cost-effective. Walking or biking is also popular, considering the neighborhood’s pedestrian-friendly layout.
San Francisco’s blend of year-round tourism and business travel creates steady demand for Lobby Ambassadors who can handle high guest turnover and diverse customer needs. The city’s emphasis on boutique and lifestyle hotels increases the need for ambassadors skilled in delivering tailored, memorable service.
Daily challenges include managing peak check-in times smoothly, resolving guest issues promptly, and mastering front desk technology. Preparation involves honing communication skills, learning local area knowledge, and practicing multitasking to maintain efficiency and a welcoming atmosphere.
Highgate’s focus on leadership development and operational excellence equips Lobby Ambassadors with skills in guest relations, revenue management, and team coordination. This foundation supports progression into supervisory or managerial positions within Highgate’s extensive hotel network or the broader hospitality industry.