Guest Service Agent
Company Overview
Best Western is one of the most recognized hotel brands operating across Canada, with independently owned and operated properties spanning almost every province. Each location is run by local owners, which means guest service teams tend to be close-knit and hands-on, with real opportunities to move from an entry-level desk role into a supervisory or management position over time.
Guest Service Agents are the face of the hotel — the first and last impression a traveller has of their stay. Properties range from roadside inns in smaller communities to full-service hotels in major cities, so day-to-day responsibilities can vary slightly by location, but the core purpose of the role stays the same: make every guest feel taken care of.
Learn more about the brand and its Canadian properties on the official Best Western website.
Job Description
As a Guest Service Agent, you’ll manage the front desk from the moment a guest walks in until they check out. You’ll juggle a busy phone line, a steady stream of walk-ins, and the occasional guest concern — all while keeping the lobby running smoothly and representing the hotel with a genuine, welcoming attitude.
Key Responsibilities
- Greet arriving guests, complete check-in and check-out, and assign rooms based on availability and guest preference
- Answer incoming calls, take reservations, and respond to questions about rates, amenities, and local attractions
- Process payments, post charges accurately, and reconcile the cash drawer at the end of each shift
- Resolve guest concerns calmly and professionally, escalating to a manager when needed
- Coordinate with housekeeping and maintenance to keep room status updated in real time
- Maintain a clean, organized front desk and lobby area throughout the shift
- Follow hotel policies for ID verification, credit checks, and guest privacy
- Support other departments during busy periods, including breakfast service or luggage assistance
Qualifications & Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Previous front desk, retail, or customer service experience is an asset but not always required
- Comfortable using hotel property management software (training provided on systems such as Visual Matrix or WebRezPro)
- Clear verbal communication in English; a second language is a plus in many markets
- Able to stand for extended periods and work a rotating schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Basic math skills for handling cash, credit transactions, and billing
- A calm, patient approach to handling guest complaints or unexpected situations
- Legally eligible to work in Canada
Salary & Benefits
Pay for this role typically falls between $17.00 and $20.50 per hour, depending on the province, the specific property, and the candidate’s experience. Some locations report annual earnings closer to $49,000 for agents who move into senior or lead front desk positions.
- Employee hotel discounts at Best Western properties worldwide
- Group health benefits at many locations (dental, vision, and paramedical coverage)
- Paid training on reservation and front desk software
- Opportunities for internal promotion into supervisor, night audit, or front office manager roles
- Flexible shift scheduling at most properties
Exact benefits vary by hotel, since each Best Western location in Canada is independently owned and operated. Specific offerings will be confirmed during the interview process.
Job Location
Best Western hotels are hiring Guest Service Agents at properties across Canada, including Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, and Atlantic Canada. Roles are on-site at the hotel — this is not a remote position, since the job requires being physically present at the front desk to greet and assist guests.
Summary
The Guest Service Agent role at Best Western Canada is a solid entry point into hospitality, offering hands-on guest interaction, steady hourly pay, and a realistic path toward supervisory positions. It suits candidates who enjoy people-facing work, stay composed under pressure, and don’t mind a schedule that includes evenings and weekends.
How to Apply
- Review the qualifications above and confirm you’re legally eligible to work in Canada.
- Prepare an up-to-date resume that highlights any customer service, retail, or hospitality experience.
- Submit your application through the official Best Western careers portal for the location you’re interested in.
- Shortlisted candidates are typically contacted for a phone or in-person interview within one to two weeks.
Apply directly through the official Best Western Careers portal to search open Guest Service Agent positions by city and submit your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need previous hotel experience to apply?
No. Many Best Western properties hire Guest Service Agents without prior hotel experience, provided you have strong communication skills and some background in customer service or retail. On-the-job training is typically provided for reservation software and hotel procedures.
What shifts does a Guest Service Agent usually work?
Front desks operate around the clock, so schedules are typically built around three shifts: morning, afternoon/evening, and overnight. New hires should expect some flexibility, including occasional weekend and holiday coverage.
How much does a Guest Service Agent get paid in Canada?
Pay generally ranges from about $17.00 to $20.50 per hour, depending on the province and property, with some experienced agents earning closer to $49,000 annually in senior or lead roles.
Is this position full-time or part-time?
Both options are typically available. Many locations offer part-time schedules for students or those seeking supplemental income, alongside full-time positions with more consistent hours.
What is the career path for a Guest Service Agent?
Agents who perform well often move into night audit, front desk supervisor, or front office manager roles within the same property or across the wider hotel network.
