If you have ever traveled through a major airport or stopped at a motorway service plaza, you have likely experienced the hospitality provided by HMSHost. As a global leader in travel dining, this company operates hundreds of restaurants and brands across North America. Many job seekers are drawn to the fast-paced, dynamic environment of travel hubs, making roles at these locations highly sought after.
Finding a position in the travel hospitality industry requires knowing where to look and understanding the unique requirements of working in secure environments like airports. This guide provides a straightforward path to discovering job openings, submitting your application, and preparing for a career in this specialized field.
Understanding the Role of HMSHost in Travel Dining
HMSHost is a world-renowned restaurateur that focuses specifically on the travel industry. They partner with some of the most recognizable brands in the world, including Starbucks, Dunkin’, and various local favorites, to provide food and beverage services to travelers. Recently becoming part of the Avolta group, the company continues to expand its footprint in international and domestic travel hubs.
Working for a travel dining leader is different from working at a standard street-side restaurant. The volume of customers is often higher, and the schedule follows the rhythm of flight departures and arrivals rather than traditional meal times. This creates a unique workplace culture that values efficiency, speed, and high-quality customer service.
Common Job Roles Available
Because the company manages a diverse portfolio of dining options—ranging from quick-service coffee shops to full-service fine dining—there is a wide variety of career paths available. Whether you are looking for your first job or a management career, there are several common roles to consider.
Front-of-House Positions
These roles are the face of the company and interact directly with travelers. Common positions include:
- Baristas: Preparing specialty coffee drinks in high-traffic airport locations.
- Servers and Bartenders: Providing full-service dining experiences in sit-down restaurants.
- Cashiers and Counter Attendants: Managing quick transactions for travelers on the go.
- Hosts: Managing seating and welcoming guests to dining areas.
Back-of-House and Culinary Roles
The kitchen is the heart of the operation, ensuring that food is prepared safely and quickly. Roles include:
- Line Cooks and Prep Cooks: Executing menus across various brand concepts.
- Executive Chefs: Overseeing kitchen operations and maintaining culinary standards.
- Dishwashers and Utility Workers: Ensuring the cleanliness and efficiency of the kitchen environment.
Management and Corporate Staff
To keep hundreds of locations running smoothly, the company employs a robust team of leaders. These include Assistant Managers, General Managers, and Multi-Unit Managers who oversee entire airport terminals. Additionally, corporate roles in human resources, finance, and marketing support the field operations from regional offices.
How to Apply for a Position
The application process is primarily handled through a centralized online portal. Following these steps will help you navigate the system effectively and ensure your application reaches the right hiring manager.
Step 1: Access the Official Careers Portal
The most reliable way to find current openings is to visit the official careers website dedicated to the company. While third-party job boards may list some positions, the internal portal is always the most up-to-date. You can typically search for jobs by keyword, city, state, or even a specific airport code (such as LAX, ORD, or ATL).
Step 2: Create a Candidate Profile
Before submitting an application, you will need to create a profile. This involves providing your contact information and uploading a resume. Having a digital copy of your resume ready in PDF or Word format is essential. The system may also allow you to link your LinkedIn profile to pull in relevant work history automatically.
Step 3: Tailor Your Application
When you find a specific job listing that interests you, read the description carefully. Highlight experiences that demonstrate your ability to work in fast-paced environments. If you have previous experience in hospitality or retail, make sure to emphasize your customer service skills and your ability to handle high-pressure situations.
The Unique Requirements of Airport Employment
One aspect that sets these careers apart is the location. Working inside an airport requires passing specific security hurdles that standard jobs do not. If the position you are applying for is located “behind security” (past the TSA checkpoints), you must be prepared for the following:
- Background Checks: You will undergo a thorough federal background check. This often includes fingerprinting and a review of your history over the last ten years.
- SIDA Badge Requirements: To work in secure areas, you must qualify for a Security Identification Display Area (SIDA) badge. This requires valid identification and proof of legal right to work.
- Reliable Transportation: Airports are often located far from residential areas. You must ensure you have a reliable way to get to work, whether through personal vehicle or public transit that aligns with your shift times.
Benefits of a Career in Travel Hospitality
Working in this industry offers several advantages that are unique to the travel sector. For many, the primary draw is the stability of a large, global organization. Other benefits often include:
- Competitive Pay: Many airport roles offer higher starting wages than comparable street-side positions due to the specialized nature of the environment.
- Growth Opportunities: Because the company operates so many different brands, employees have the chance to learn various culinary and service styles without leaving the company.
- Diverse Environment: You will interact with people from all over the world, making every day different and culturally enriching.
- Structured Training: New hires typically receive comprehensive training on food safety, brand standards, and customer service excellence.
Tips for a Successful Interview
If your application is selected, you will be invited for an interview. This may take place at a local hiring office, via a video call, or even at a job fair hosted at the airport. To succeed, keep these tips in mind:
- Showcase Reliability: In the travel industry, being on time is critical. Emphasize your track record of punctuality.
- Demonstrate Flexibility: Airports operate 24/7. Showing that you are open to various shifts, including early mornings, late nights, or weekends, can make you a more attractive candidate.
- Focus on Solutions: Be prepared to share examples of how you have handled difficult customers or solved problems in previous roles.
- Dress Professionally: Even for entry-level roles, appearing professional and well-groomed demonstrates that you take the opportunity seriously.
Conclusion
Starting a career at HMSHost offers a gateway into the vibrant world of travel hospitality. By utilizing the official careers portal and preparing for the unique security requirements of the airport environment, you can position yourself as a top candidate for a variety of roles. Whether you are looking to master the art of the perfect latte or lead a team of hospitality professionals, the opportunities in travel dining are vast and rewarding. Explore the current openings today and take the first step toward a dynamic new career on the move.
For more information on career development and job search strategies, feel free to explore our other articles on workplace success and industry-specific hiring guides.