Grand Rapids Downtown Market

Christkindl Markt Alpenglobe Host

About the Role

The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is home to the Christkindl Markt, one of the Midwest's premier holiday traditions, welcoming hundreds of thousands of guests each season for festive shopping, food, entertainment, and community experiences.

We are seeking an enthusiastic, professional, and hospitality-minded Alpenglobe Hosts to provide exceptional tableside service and create memorable guest experiences. Hosts ensure each reservation is welcoming, seamless, and festive—from arrival through departure.

Our team values integrity, collaboration, resourcefulness, respect, proactivity, and fun. We seek individuals who take pride in their work, anticipate guest needs, and contribute to a positive, engaging environment.

Essential Responsibilities

• Deliver exceptional, attentive tableside service to Alpenglobe guests.
• Prepare, stock, and organize Alpenglobes for reservations, including glassware and beverage pre-orders.
• Welcome guests and explain Alpenglobe amenities, including music, heaters, and beverage-ordering options.
• Take and deliver beverage orders accurately and respond proactively to guest needs.
• Provide responsible alcohol service, verify identification, and ensure compliance with legal drinking-age requirements.
• Process payments accurately using the POS system.
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and presentation; clean and reset Alpenglobes between reservations.
• Follow all safety, sanitation, and service standards.
• Coordinate with bar staff and event team members to ensure smooth operations.
• Maintain knowledge of beverage and catered food offerings.
• Assist with additional event and guest-service duties as needed.

Qualifications & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• At least 1–2 years of VIP, white-glove serving, hospitality, or comparable guest-service experience required.
• Current TIPS Michigan On-Premise Alcohol Server Certificate preferred, or ability to complete the required online certification before the Markt opens.
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Previous POS experience required; Square experience preferred.
• Strong communication, organizational, and multitasking skills.
• Demonstrated commitment to exceptional hospitality, professionalism, and teamwork.
• Ability to remain calm, positive, and solutions-focused in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work independently, anticipate needs, solve problems, and adapt to changing event conditions.

Physical Requirements & Working Conditions

The position requires the ability to:

• Stand and walk for extended periods and move frequently between heated Alpenglobes, indoor areas, bars, and outdoor spaces.
• Transport hot and cold beverages between bars and Alpenglobes.
• Occasionally lift or move up to 30 pounds, with or without assistance.
• Bend, reach, squat, twist, and use hands as needed to perform job duties.
• Work in varying temperatures and weather conditions, including cold outdoor environments.
• Wear required Christkindl Markt uniform pieces, including the provided hat and jacket.

Schedule & Availability

This is a part-time, seasonal/temporary position supporting the Christkindl Markt during the holiday season.

Team members must:

• Be available during the Markt season, including weekends and scheduled event shifts.
• Arrive prepared and on time, accurately record hours worked, and use work time efficiently.
• Remain flexible as event needs and guest volumes change.

Why Join Our Team?

Join one of West Michigan's beloved holiday traditions and help create memorable experiences for guests, families, and visitors from across the community. You'll work alongside a passionate, collaborative team and play a direct role in bringing the warmth, excitement, and hospitality of the Christkindl Markt to life.

If you love hospitality, teamwork, and creating memorable guest experiences, we'd love to meet you!

Apply today! Qualified candidates will be contacted to schedule a conversation.

The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities and believe diverse perspectives strengthen our team and community.