Front Desk Agent
Company : Highgate
Location : Princeton, NJ, 08542
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 6 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
Graduate Princeton - Princeton, NJ
Overview
The Front Office Agent 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
- Answer inquires from guests regarding restaurants, transportation, entertainment, etc.
- 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.
- 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.
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Frequently asked questions
Princeton’s hospitality sector is moderately competitive, with several hotels seeking front desk agents. Candidates with hospitality experience or strong customer service skills tend to stand out. Highgate’s presence indicates stable opportunities, but local demand also attracts seasonal applicants, making timing and relevant experience crucial for success.
Princeton’s public transit options and nearby highways make commuting manageable, yet peak hours can create delays. Front desk agents benefit from flexible scheduling to avoid rush hours. Parking availability varies by hotel, so prospective employees often consider proximity and transit routes when applying to positions like those at Highgate.
Front desk agents need sharp multitasking abilities, a welcoming attitude, and proficiency in front desk software. Familiarity with hospitality jargon and cash handling is vital. Highgate values agents who can anticipate guest needs, communicate clearly, and handle emergencies calmly, enhancing guest satisfaction and operational efficiency.
While a high school diploma is standard, coursework in hospitality or customer service improves prospects. Experience with booking systems and fluency in multiple languages can be advantageous. Strong interpersonal skills and problem-solving capabilities are often sought to ensure smooth guest interactions and support career advancement.
Front desk agents handle guest check-ins/out, manage reservations, and provide local information. Unlike housekeeping or food service roles, they oversee billing, room assignments, and guest queries, often acting as the primary communication link between guests and hotel departments, requiring efficient multitasking and professionalism.
Highgate’s global portfolio and innovative tools provide front desk agents access to advanced revenue management systems and comprehensive training. Their focus on digital acumen and lifestyle brands offers agents exposure to diverse guest profiles and career growth opportunities within a forward-thinking hospitality environment.
Highgate emphasizes efficiency and guest engagement, supported by clear shift checklists and communication protocols. Agents benefit from structured workflows, promoting consistency and teamwork. The company’s adherence to safety standards and guest-first culture shapes a dynamic yet supportive workplace atmosphere.
Front Desk Agents in Princeton generally earn between $14 and $18 per hour, depending on experience and hotel brand. Highgate positions likely align within this range, offering competitive pay to match local cost of living while factoring in guest service skills and shift flexibility.
Absolutely, this role builds foundational customer service, operational, and administrative skills. Front desk agents often transition into supervisory or management positions, especially in hotels like Highgate that promote internal growth and cross-training in various hotel departments.
Highgate does offer part-time front desk roles to accommodate varying schedules. These positions provide flexibility while maintaining core responsibilities like guest interactions and reservation management, making them suitable for students or those seeking work-life balance within Princeton’s hospitality scene.