What Are Popular Careers in the Hospitality Business?
The hospitality business offers a wide array of career options for a variety of education levels. Read on to find out if a career in this field is a good fit for you. Schools offering Hospitality Management degrees can also be found in these popular choices.
Careers in Hospitality Overview
Popular careers in the hospitality industry include general, front office, and food and beverage management, as well as executive housekeeping. Keep reading to learn more about duties associated with these hospitality jobs.
Important Facts about This Occupational Field
| Median Salary (2014) | $48,560 (for food service managers) |
| Required Education | High school diploma (for lodging managers) |
| Job Outlook (2012-2022) | 1% (for lodging managers) |
| Key Skills | Problem-solving, customer service, organizational skills, physical stamina, speaking, business, leadership, organizational (for food service managers) |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
General Manager
General managers (part of lodging management) work for hotel chains or private owners. They're typically responsible for the entire operation of a facility. This can start with construction or renovation of a hotel or other facility and might include planning the facility's layout and choosing amenities and decors. Other duties might include:
- Developing operating plans
- Determining pricing
- Creating budgets
- Oversee hiring
Front Office Manager
Front office managers (part of lodging management) train, supervise and manage front desk staff who are responsible for checking customers in and out, making reservations, calculating bills and assigning rooms. They also are charged with resolving customers' complaints and making sure that customers' needs are met.
Food and Beverage Manager
Food and beverage managers are primarily responsible for choosing food and setting prices on a menu. They must have knowledge and skills in the following areas:
- Coordinating assignments
- Organizing and directing staff training programs
- Reviewing work procedures and operational issues
- Maintaining food and equipment supplies
- Keeping accurate records
- Calculating cost of and purchasing food, as well as liquor and other beverages
Executive Housekeeper
Housekeeping is one of the most important jobs in the hospitality business. Housekeepers ensure everything in a hotel or cruise ship, including guest rooms, bathrooms, common areas and fitness rooms, is maintained and clean. Other duties include:
- Keeping inventory and ordering supplies
- Training and supervising staff
- Organizing and assigning work
Hospitality Management Education
Most management positions in the hospitality industry require a bachelor's degree and some experience; however, some employers accept candidates with a combination of an associate's degree and experience. Many vocational schools, colleges and universities offer specialized training in hotel management, food services and housekeeping management. Students can earn certificates, associate's or bachelor's degrees, such as an Associate of Applied Science in Food Services or a Bachelor of Science in Hospitality Management.
To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:
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