Front Desk Agent
Company : Highgate
Location : Austin, TX, 78701
Job Type : Part 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
La Quinta Austin Capitol / Downtown
300 E. 11th Street.Austin, TX 78701Overview
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
Front Desk Agents in Austin must skillfully manage check-ins and checkouts, upsell room packages, and stay updated on promotions to boost occupancy and revenue. Balancing courteous guest interactions with revenue strategies is key to optimizing both service quality and hotel profitability.
Proficiency with front desk software helps agents at Highgate handle reservations, process payments, and communicate seamlessly with housekeeping. This tech-savvy approach reduces wait times, enhances accuracy, and contributes to smooth daily operations essential for maintaining guest satisfaction.
Exceptional listening, clear communication, and quick problem-solving distinguish top Front Desk Agents. These skills enable agents to anticipate guest needs, resolve issues promptly, and foster a welcoming atmosphere, which are vital for thriving in guest-facing hospitality roles.
Austin’s growing tourism sector has increased demand for Front Desk Agents, with hotels seeking candidates who combine hospitality experience with tech proficiency. Employers prioritize adaptability and customer-focus as key traits due to the city’s dynamic guest profiles and evolving service expectations.
Austin’s hospitality sector is competitive but offers more opportunities than smaller Texas cities, driven by its booming tourism and event hosting. Candidates with flexibility, bilingual skills, and familiarity with local attractions tend to stand out in this vibrant job market.
Front Desk Agents at Highgate in Austin generally earn between $14 and $18 per hour, depending on experience and shift timing. This aligns with the hospitality pay standards in the region, factoring in Highgate’s commitment to competitive compensation within the market.
Highgate emphasizes innovative revenue management and digital tools, so their Front Desk Agents engage more with tech-driven systems and bespoke guest programs. This approach provides a more dynamic work environment compared to traditional hotel front desk roles.
Agents at Highgate often take part in marketing guest promotions and maintaining high standards of guest interaction, reflecting the company’s focus on lifestyle branding and personalized experiences that go beyond routine front desk tasks.
Certifications like CPR, customer service excellence, and hospitality management basics can enhance a candidate’s profile. Austin employers appreciate formal training combined with practical experience due to the city’s emphasis on safety and quality guest service.
Part-time roles are prevalent, offering flexibility but potentially slower career progression. However, motivated part-time Front Desk Agents who gain diverse skills and demonstrate reliability often advance to supervisory or specialized positions within local hotels.