Lodging

The accommodations sector is one of the largest and most diverse parts of the HTM industry in Grand Rapids. With more than 100 hotels, bed & breakfast inns and campgrounds in the county, there is an endless opportunity for caring, considerate people who love to create positive experiences for visitors. Entry-level roles in front-desk reception, housekeeping, and foodservice can lead to increasing levels of responsibility and eventual supervisor and general manager positions. Many hotels also employ their own events managers, helping plan on-site wedding receptions, business meetings, tradeshows, military reunions and more.

Choose Your Starting Point

Front Desk Agent:

Are you a people-person and organized individual with excellent communication skills? As a front desk agent, you'll be the first point of contact for guests, providing exceptional customer service and ensuring a smooth check-in and check-out process. Handle guest inquiries, reservations, and requests, while maintaining accurate records and upholding the standards of the establishment.

Housekeeping Room Attendant:

Are you detail-oriented and passionate about maintaining cleanliness? As a housekeeping room attendant, you'll ensure that guest rooms are immaculately clean and comfortable during their stay. Perform thorough cleaning tasks, replenish amenities, and respond promptly to guest requests, contributing to a positive guest experience and maintaining the reputation of the establishment.

Bellhop/Porter:

Are you energetic and helpful with a knack for providing exceptional service? As a bellhop/porter, you'll assist guests with their luggage, escort them to their rooms, and provide information about hotel amenities and services. Help with transportation arrangements and other guest needs, ensuring a seamless and welcoming arrival and departure experience.

Vallet Attendant:

Are you a responsible and courteous individual with excellent driving skills? As a valet attendant, you'll provide guests with convenient and efficient parking services, greeting them upon arrival, and safely parking and retrieving their vehicles. Offer assistance with luggage and provide directions and recommendations to enhance the guest experience.

Explore Mid-Level Opportunities

Night Auditor:

Are you detail-oriented and comfortable working independently? As a night auditor, you'll oversee the overnight operations of the hotel, reconciling financial transactions, preparing daily reports, and ensuring the security and safety of the premises. Handle late check-ins, guest inquiries, and emergency situations, providing attentive service during non-traditional hours.

Reservations Agent:

Are you organized and customer-focused with excellent communication skills? As a reservations agent, you'll assist guests with booking accommodations, providing information about room availability, rates, and hotel amenities. Process reservations accurately and efficiently, ensuring guest preferences and special requests are accommodated to create a personalized and positive booking experience.

Spa Therapist:

Are you passionate about holistic wellness and rejuvenation? As a spa therapist, you'll provide guests with an array of relaxing and revitalizing spa treatments to enhance their overall well-being. Utilizing your expertise in massage therapy, skincare, and body treatments, you'll create personalized experiences tailored to each guest's preferences and needs.

Move Up to Management

Director of Housekeeping:

Are you a seasoned leader with a passion for maintaining cleanliness and order? As the director of housekeeping, you'll oversee the housekeeping department, setting standards for cleanliness, training staff, and managing inventory and budgets. Collaborate with other departments to ensure guest satisfaction and uphold the highest standards of cleanliness and hygiene throughout the hotel.

HR Director:

Are you a strategic thinker with a passion for people, management, engagement, and development? As the HR director, you'll oversee all aspects of human resources management, including recruitment, training, performance management, and employee relations. Develop and implement HR strategies and policies that support the organization's goals and values while fostering a positive and inclusive work culture.

Hotel General Manager:

Are you an experienced leader with a passion for hospitality and guest satisfaction? As the hotel general manager, you'll oversee all aspects of hotel operations, including guest services, sales, marketing, finance, and facilities management. Lead a team of department managers and staff to ensure the smooth and efficient operation of the hotel while delivering exceptional guest experiences and achieving financial targets.

Are you interested in more information about Discover Tourism? Do you have questions about the Academy of Hospitality & Tourism? We'd love to hear from you!