Hotel Front Desk

The Merchant is looking for a Full-Time Front Desk Agent who genuinely enjoys taking care of people and understands that great hospitality is often found in the little things.

The Merchant is an intimate, 11-room boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Salem. Housed in a beautifully restored Federal-style mansion dating back to the 1700s, the property blends incredible history and original architectural details with bold design, modern comforts, and the warm, personal hospitality our guests have come to know us for.

If you're the person friends ask where to eat, what to do, and where the hidden gems are, and you genuinely enjoy making people feel welcome, you might be exactly who we're looking for. At The Merchant, our Front Desk Agents are part host, part local expert, part problem-solver, and a big part of what makes our guests' stays memorable.

At The Merchant, the front desk is much more than a place to check guests in and out. With only 11 rooms, our team has the opportunity to get to know our guests, anticipate what they may need, share the best of Salem, and create the thoughtful, personalized experience that sets our small boutique hotel apart.

Who we're looking for:

You don't necessarily need years of hotel experience. We're more interested in finding someone who is warm, dependable, observant, confident, and naturally hospitable.

The right person enjoys talking with people, notices the small details, can work independently, and understands how to balance professionalism with personality. Because The Merchant is a small property, every member of the team plays an important role in the guest experience, and we're looking for someone who is comfortable jumping in wherever needed.

What you'll do:

• Welcome guests and create a warm, polished first impression
• Assist with arrivals, departures, reservations, parking, luggage, and guest requests efficiently and accurately
• Communicate with guests in person, by phone, text, and email
• Share thoughtful recommendations for restaurants, attractions, shopping, and local experiences
• Keep an eye on the details throughout the property and help ensure our common spaces remain welcoming and guest-ready
• Assist in the preparation of our curated breakfast and seasonal treat program (calling all amateur bakers!)
• Work closely with housekeeping and management to keep daily operations running smoothly
• Look for opportunities to surprise and delight our guests rather than simply completing transactions
• Help solve problems quickly, calmly, and with genuine care
• Maintain accurate records and handle payments securely

Hospitality Hours That Leave Room for Life

One of the perks of working at The Merchant is a schedule that looks a little different from a traditional hotel. Because of our intimate size and limited hours of operation, our Front Desk team works primarily daytime and early-evening shifts, typically falling between 8:00 AM and 7:00 PM.

That means no overnight shifts, no 11:00 PM front desk closes, and a schedule that allows you to work in hospitality while still having time for life outside of work.

Typical shifts include 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, and 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM. Weekend availability is an important part of the role, but we work to provide a consistent, predictable schedule whenever possible.

Qualifications:

• Previous front desk, hospitality, or customer service experience preferred but not required
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Excellent typing skills with the ability to compose professional emails and guest correspondence clearly and efficiently
• High attention to detail in written communication and reservation accuracy
• Ability to multitask and remain composed under pressure
• Ability to work with minimal supervision
• Proficiency with computers, smartphones, tablets, and reservation systems (experience with hotel PMS a plus)
• Flexible schedule with required weekend and holiday availability
• Availability to work during the day (8 am to 6 pm) is required
• Professional presentation and positive attitude

Compensation: $19.50/ per hour