Parkway Social & Ostin’s Restaurant ~ Heart of Niagara Hotels
Job Title: Front of House Assistant Manager
Department: Front of House
Industry: Food & Beverage
Reports to: General Manager, Operations Manager
Location: Parkway Social & Ostin’s Restaurant, St. Catharines, ON
Type: 6-month contract
Position Overview:
Parkway Social and Ostin’s Restaurant are vibrant, high-volume venues within the Heart of Niagara Hotels family, offering a unique blend of dining and entertainment. We’re seeking a passionate and experienced Front of House Assistant Manager to help lead our team in delivering world-class service to every guest—no exceptions.
This role demands energy, adaptability, and a guest-first mindset. You’ll be on your feet in a fast-paced environment, working with diverse age groups and backgrounds. From casual dining to lively entertainment, you’ll help ensure every guest feels welcomed, valued, and cared for.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the GM in delivering exceptional guest experiences across all departments
- Assist in leading and motivating a team of 20+ during peak hours
- Coordinate and manage employee schedules while maintaining labor cost targets
- Track attendance, address issues, and ensure policy compliance
- Onboard new hires and support ongoing staff development and training
- Maintain strong product knowledge of food, beer, wine, and spirits
- Expedite food and beverage service during busy shifts with precision
- Communicate effectively with management and staff to ensure smooth operations
- Adapt quickly to changing needs and work across multiple venues under one roof
- Attend meetings and relay key information to the team
- Enforce company policies and procedures with staff and guests
- Coordinate staffing and setup for large parties and events
- Oversee reservations and seating to optimize guest satisfaction
- Monitor cleanliness and presentation of the venue
- Handle guest inquiries, complaints, and feedback professionally
- Collaborate with back of house for seamless service
- Stay current on industry trends to enhance the guest experience
- Assist with inventory, ordering, and stock control
Qualifications:
- Minimum 3 years of supervisory or management experience in food & beverage
- Proven success in high-volume, casual upscale environments
- Smart Serve Certification (required)
- Strong leadership and team development skills
- Ability to multitask and perform under pressure
- Availability for all shifts, including days, late nights, weekends, and holidays
- Guest service-focused with a food-forward mindset
- Strong expediting and communication skills
- Flexibility to adapt and work across multiple areas of the property
Skills:
- Certification or training in food safety
- Experience in expediting or kitchen operations
- Familiarity with POS systems and restaurant management software
Working Conditions:
- Fast-paced, high-energy environment
- Long periods of standing and walking
- Exposure to varying temperatures and noise levels
- Interaction with guests of all ages and backgrounds
Benefits:
- Competitive salary
- Comprehensive health and dental benefits – earned after successful completion of probationary period
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Career advancement opportunities with Heart of Niagara Hotels
- Employee discounts on dining and entertainment
- Ongoing training and development programs
Application Process: Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and cover letter detailing their relevant experience and why they are a suitable fit for this role. Applications can also be submitted through our career portal at www.heartofniagara.ca/careers
