Front of House/Volunteer Coordinator in Kingston upon Thames

Front of House/Volunteer Coordinator in Kingston upon Thames

Kingston upon Thames Volunteer 31500 - 38500 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
City of Kingston

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Coordinate front of house activities and ensure exceptional patron service during events.
  • Company: Join the City of Kingston, a community-focused team making a real impact.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive rewards, wellness programs, and ongoing training opportunities.
  • Other info: Accommodations available for all candidates throughout the recruitment process.
  • Why this job: Be part of a vibrant team creating memorable experiences for the community.
  • Qualifications: High school diploma and experience in theatre operations preferred.

The predicted salary is between 31500 - 38500 £ per year.

Reporting to the Operations Supervisor, the Front of House Coordinator supports all front of house activities during performances and events, including patron services and safety, staff and volunteer support, bars and concessions, and catering in an effective and efficient manner.

We create exceptional live performance experiences, from ticketing and guest services to concessions and accessibility support.

Our team manages every detail to ensure events run smoothly and guests enjoy memorable visits.

What you'll do...

  • Ensure exemplary patron service is provided by staff and volunteers at all times;
  • Ensure staff and volunteers are knowledgeable about the specifics of each event;
  • Adhere to front of house policies and make recommendations for changes where appropriate;
  • Support the work of the Operations Supervisor to ensure the needs of patrons and clients are met; liaise with clients where appropriate to ensure event details have been met; and reinforce information regarding policies and procedures;
  • Resolve patron and client complaints as needed to support a high level of customer satisfaction;
  • Support the distribution of marketing materials as needed;
  • Maintain a thorough knowledge of health, safety and emergency procedures and work with the Operations Supervisor to ensure staff and volunteers are prepared to handle accidents, patron incidents and emergency situations, including evacuation;
  • In the absence of the Operations Supervisor, act as primary contact for patrons, clients, staff and/or volunteers regarding operations and issues.
  • Determine the appropriate actions to be taken;
  • Ensure staff, caterers and suppliers work in compliance with Corporate health and safety procedures;
  • Monitor event set‑up and services to ensure compliance with health codes, fire regulations, LLBO regulations and any other compliance requirements related to front of house operations;
  • Monitor operational procedures to ensure the safety of staff and patrons and report concerns to the Operations Supervisor as needed;
  • Support responsible service of alcohol;
  • Work in collaboration with the Operations Supervisor to attract, train and retain volunteers;
  • Support volunteer training and monitor adherence to the appropriate policies and procedures;
  • Help facilitate volunteer appreciation and recognition programs;
  • Help to foster a work environment in which where staff are motivated to excel;
  • Act as a role model with respect to professionalism, customer service/safety and the Corporate values of teamwork, respect, integrity and pride;
  • Communicate corporate policies and procedures and ensure compliance as needed;
  • Work to anticipate problems and initiate corrective action, keeping the Operations Supervisor and Manager, Grand Theatre informed of issues having a broad impact;
  • Monitor cash handling procedures including floats, petty cash and deposits in the absence of the Operations Supervisor;
  • Participate in the scheduling of volunteers in support of front of house operations;
  • Support the administration of the volunteer program including on-boarding and record management;
  • Other duties as assigned.
  • What you’ll need
  • Completion of High School (Grade 12) graduation or equivalent;
  • Six (6) months experience in theatre operations, supervising and working with staff and volunteers;
  • Demonstrated organizational abilities; and familiarity supervising and working with staff and volunteers
  • Smart Serve Certified is desired;
  • Belonging, Collaboration, Accountability, Innovation

Why us?

Join a team that’s building more than a city - we’re building a community where people thrive.

At the City of Kingston, your work has real impact: safer streets, greener spaces, inclusive experiences, innovative transit, creative public spaces, and brighter futures for all.

We’re more than just a municipal government - we’re a team of problem‑solvers, innovators, and community‑builders who take pride in shaping the place we call home.

As an employer, we’re committed to your growth, your well‑being, and creating an environment where every voice counts.

Your career is more than a job - it’s where your impact begins.

Why you’ll love it here…

We provide our employees with a comprehensive and competitive total rewards package, which may include extended health coverage, travel and life insurance, and long‑term disability.

Specific benefits can vary depending on your role and terms of employment.

In addition, employees may enjoy access to

  • OMERS defined pension plan
  • Employee wellness and assistance programs and resources
  • Ongoing training and education opportunities
  • Corporate perks such as discounted transit and fitness passes
  • Learning & development resources and networks
  • Relocation assistance and local resources

Accommodations are available at all stages of the recruitment and selection process to support a barrier‑free experience for all candidates in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code (OHRC) and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA).

If you require any accommodations, please let us know.

For more information, you can contact us at hrcity@cityofkingston. ca .

Thank you to everyone who applies.

While we value each application, only those advancing in the recruitment process will be contacted.

All personal information will be handled in compliance with the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (MFIPPA).

The City of Kingston may utilize artificial intelligence (AI) assisted tools throughout the recruitment process. All final hiring decisions are made by qualified municipal staff.

To ensure you don’t miss any updates, please check your spam or junk folders for emails from a City of Kingston account.

Our commitment

The City of Kingston acknowledges that we are on the traditional homeland of the Anishinabek, Haudenosaunee, and the Huron‑Wendat, and thanks these nations for their care and stewardship over this shared land.

Today, the City is committed to working with Indigenous peoples and all residents to pursue a united path of reconciliation.

Learn more about the City's reconciliation initiatives .

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Front of House/Volunteer Coordinator in Kingston upon Thames employer: City of Kingston

The City of Kingston is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work environment where community safety is paramount. With flexible shifts and comprehensive training, employees can grow their skills while making a meaningful impact on the lives of school-age children. The city's commitment to employee well-being and public service creates a rewarding atmosphere for all staff members.

City of Kingston

Contact Details:

City of Kingston Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Front of House/Volunteer Coordinator in Kingston upon Thames

Get Involved with Local Events

Join local food festivals or community events where volunteer spots are often available. This is a great way to meet industry professionals and show your passion for hospitality while gaining hands-on experience!

Tap into Hospitality Networks

Connect with local hospitality groups or associations that often look for volunteers. Websites, forums, and social media pages specific to food service can offer opportunities and insights. Plus, networking here could lead to future paid positions!

Showcase Your Skills in Unique Ways

Create a little portfolio showcasing any past volunteer experiences in the food service industry. Even if it's just photos from events or a blog about your experiences, it gives potential hosts a taste of what you can bring to the table!

Apply Directly Through Our Site

If you spot a volunteer opportunity with City of Kingston, make sure to apply through our website! It's the best way to ensure your application gets noticed and considered quickly by the right people.

We think you need these skills to ace Front of House/Volunteer Coordinator in Kingston upon Thames

Customer Service
Event Coordination
Volunteer Management
Health and Safety Compliance
Conflict Resolution
Organisational Skills
Communication Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Show Off Your Passion for Hospitality:When applying for a volunteer role in hospitality, it’s all about showing your enthusiasm for the food service industry. Let us see your passion in your cover letter! Talk about why you love the hustle and bustle of a busy kitchen or how you enjoy making guests feel welcome. This can really set you apart from other applicants.

Highlight Relevant Experience:Even if you haven't worked in hospitality before, include any customer service experience you have. Did you help out in a café, assist at events, or even work in retail? Just remember to mention any specific skills relevant to the role, like teamwork or communication, because these are gold in our industry!

Fun and Informal Tone Is Key:For a volunteer role, don’t be afraid to inject a bit of personality into your CV and cover letter. We love candidates who can bring a sense of joy to their application. So, use a friendly tone and maybe share a quirky story related to hospitality that highlights your character!

Include Availability and Commitment:Volunteering often requires flexibility, so be clear about when you're available to help out. Whether it's weekends, weekdays, or specific hours, adding this info shows that you're committed and ready to jump in. It’s also worth mentioning any long-term availability, as we love volunteers who want to stick around!

How to prepare for a job interview at City of Kingston

Showcase Your People Skills

In the hospitality food service industry, your ability to connect with others is crucial. Talk about previous experiences where you’ve interacted with customers or worked in a team setting. Let’s emphasise how you can create a welcoming atmosphere and handle diverse situations with a smile!

Prepare for Practical Scenarios

Expect to face situational questions or role-play scenarios during your interview. You might be asked how you'd handle a difficult customer or manage a busy service period. Think through examples from your experience, or at least how you'd want to tackle those challenges.

Express Your Passion for Volunteering

As you’re applying for a volunteer role, it’s vital to convey your motivation for giving back. Be ready to discuss why you want to volunteer at City of Kingston specifically, and how it aligns with your personal values or career goals in hospitality.

Familiarise Yourself with Menus and Local Offerings

Take some time to research the types of food and drinks that City of Kingston serves, especially if they have a unique twist or local flair. Showing that you’ve taken the initiative to understand their menu will not only impress but also help you respond effectively to customer queries in the future.