Join Our Team as a Guest Service Associate at HI Chicago Hostel!    

Would you love to interact with travelers from all around the world and welcome them to your city? Join Hostelling International USA at our vibrant Chicago hostel. We are currently accepting applications for a full time Guest Service Associate who will play a crucial role in creating a welcoming atmosphere while ensuring the reception desk runs smoothly, efficiently, and in accordance with hostel policy.

Position Details:    

Pay: $17.00 per hour (+$1 Overnight shift differential)

Type: Full Time, benefits eligible

Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, disability, vacation, sick leave, 403b with company match, and more (New Hire waiting periods apply).    

Perks:    

- Free stays at other HI USA hostels (subject to availability)    

- Discounts on hundreds of brands    

- On-the-job training    

- Opportunities for growth within HI USA    

- Friendly and inclusive work environment    

Responsibilities:    

- Welcome, register, orient, and supervise guests, providing group orientations mindful of cultural differences and language barriers. 

- Take reservations by telephone, e-mail, or online efficiently and accurately. 

- Conduct hostel tours and encourage guest feedback. 

- Follow procedures to ensure the security and safety of the hostel, property, guests, and employees. 

- Maintain all shift reports, logs, and daily paperwork accurately, including records of overnight fees, sales, and rentals. 

- Perform laundry, cleaning, bookkeeping, food preparation, and other necessary tasks. 

- Promote HI memberships and provide information about the hostel and local area to guests and visitors. 

- Uphold the mission of HI USA: “To help all, especially the young, gain a greater understanding of the world and its people, through hostelling.”

- Represent HI USA and the hostel positively to guests, callers, and local officials. 

- Provide overnight, on-call assistance in emergencies. 

- Perform other duties or projects as assigned by hostel management. 

Skills/Qualifications:    

- High school diploma or GED 

- Preferred: Customer service experience, hostelling experience, and the ability to speak a second language 

- Excellent communication skills and ability to handle cash accurately  

- Enjoy working with the public; able to calmly and professionally handle conflicts, guest issues, or emergencies  

- Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment and work independently or as part of a team  

- Computer literacy (WINXP, MS Word, Excel, Outlook)  

- Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required  

- Preferred: First aid and CPR certification (training can be provided)     

Physical Requirements:    

- Regularly required to sit, use hands and arms    

- Frequently required to stand, walk, talk, and hear    

- Occasionally required to climb or balance    

- Must be able to lift and move up to 50 pounds    

- Specific vision abilities required: close, peripheral, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus    

- Noise level in the work environment is usually moderate    

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.     

We Make a Difference!     

At HI USA, we celebrate diversity and welcome individuals of all backgrounds. As a nonprofit organization, we help people, especially the young, travel on a budget to foster a greater understanding of the world and its people through affordable travel opportunities.     

If you're passionate about hospitality and creating memorable experiences, apply today to join our team!