Boutique Hotel-Host & Experience Curator-Bartender/Guest Service

Hotel Royal Oak•Royal Oak, MI

23h•$17•Onsite

About The Position

gather. groove. recharge. Hotel Royal Oak is a reimagined vintage motor lodge turned boutique hotel in the heart of downtown Royal Oak. We’re not just a place to stay—we’re a place to arrive, connect, and feel something. Our bar and public spaces are open to both hotel guests and the public, creating a constant flow of energy, locals, and visitors. From coffee and cocktails at check-in to vinyl-driven nights and curated programming, everything we do is intentional. Our guests are social, design-aware, and experience-driven. They expect standout service—and they reward it. Here, the bar is the front desk. The experience starts the moment someone walks in. The Role: Host + Experience Curator This is not a traditional hotel or bar role. This is for someone who understands how to host, curate, and build energy—someone who can move seamlessly between guest service, bar service, and cultural programming. You’ll operate from a single, integrated space where you: Check guests in Serve cocktails, wine, and coffee Welcome and engage the public crowd Control the vibe through lighting and vinyl Program experiences that bring people in—and keep them coming back What You’ll DoOwn the Arrival + First Impression Welcome hotel guests and walk-in patrons with confidence and warmth Check guests in seamlessly while offering cocktails or coffee Create an immediate sense of place, energy, and belonging Craft + Curate Prepare elevated cocktails, wine, beer, and coffee Drive sales naturally during check-in and throughout the guest experience Create a bar environment that feels social, polished, and alive Control the Vibe Set and adjust lighting to shape the mood of the space Curate music through our vinyl collection—no autopilot playlists Read the room and evolve the energy throughout your shift Program the Space Concept and execute events that attract both locals and hotel guests Bring your own following—or build one quickly Stay deeply connected to the local scene and what’s next Help position the hotel as a destination, not just a place to stay Deliver Concierge-Level Hospitality Know Royal Oak—and the surrounding area—inside and out Guide guests to the best restaurants, bars, music venues, and experiences Anticipate needs and personalize recommendations Act as both host and local insider Leverage Technology to Elevate Service Use hotel systems for seamless check-in, payment, and communication Capture coffee and cocktail sales directly at arrival Manage reservations, guest requests, and flow efficiently Drive Revenue + Experience Upsell thoughtfully—rooms, drinks, events, and experiences Promote programming and in-house offerings Maximize every interaction while staying authentic Who You Are A natural host with presence—people gravitate toward you Skilled behind the bar and comfortable with guest-facing technology Deeply connected to the local scene—you know where to go and who to know A curator, promoter, or connector who understands how to build a crowd Passionate about vinyl, cocktails, wine, coffee, and culture Equal parts creative, social, and operationally sharp Schedule Flexible shifts based on availability Consistent scheduling with opportunities for additional shifts High-energy weekends with strong earning potential Why This Role Stands Out A one-of-a-kind concept where bar, front desk, and culture merge Public-facing space with constant traffic and earning potential Upscale, social guests who value great service and tip generously Opportunity to build your following and shape the scene Located in the center of Royal Oak’s nightlife and music ecosystem If you know how to set a tone, build a crowd, and make every guest feel like they’re in the right place, this is your stage. gather. groove. recharge. starts with you.

Requirements

Proven experience in hospitality, bartending, or guest-facing roles (boutique hotel, cocktail bar, café, or similar environment preferred)
Strong ability to act as a host first—creating connection, energy, and memorable guest experiences
Experience preparing and serving cocktails, wine, beer, and/or coffee with attention to quality and presentation
Comfortable using and learning POS systems, reservation platforms, and hotel/property management systems
High level of tech fluency—able to navigate digital tools quickly and use them to enhance the guest experience
Ability to multitask in a fast-paced, social environment while maintaining composure and attention to detail
Demonstrated understanding of music, atmosphere, and crowd dynamics
Interest or experience in event programming, promotion, or building a following is strongly preferred
Deep knowledge of Royal Oak and surrounding areas with the ability to provide concierge-level recommendations
Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage both hotel guests and public patrons
Availability to work evenings, weekends, and high-volume shifts
Tips Certified
Excellent References

Nice To Haves

Post-secondary education or equivalent experience demonstrating professional maturity and critical thinking
Experience in a hybrid role (e.g., bartender + host, front desk + service, or similar)
Background in curating music or working with vinyl collections
Existing network, following, or ability to drive traffic through programming or events
Passion for hospitality, design, music, and culture