Lobby attendants play a primarily customer service role, greeting patrons at hotels, theaters and other public venues. Called ushers and ticket takers at some organizations, they ensure orderly conduct among guests and address patrons’ questions and concerns. As some of the most visible representatives of the facility, they maintain a clean and welcoming place for visitors. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that ushers, lobby attendants and ticket takers earned a mean annual salary of $20,370 as of May 2013.

Qualifications and Required Skills

According to O*Net OnLine, most employers require no more than a GED or high school diploma from lobby attendants, although some prefer some college. At some companies, being a lobby attendant is a physically demanding job. At Newcastle Hotels & Resorts, for example, lobby attendants need the ability to lift and move heavy objects, bend and stretch their bodies, and stand for extended periods. Lobby attendants also need strong communication skills, because they spend much of their time interacting with guests and patrons. They must also know how to deal with people from a wide range of backgrounds. At a hotel, for example, they may assist guests from other countries and cultures and those who speak a different language.

Customer Service

A lobby attendant ensures visitors have an enjoyable experience by answering their questions or addressing any concerns they have. At a movie theater, for example, the lobby attendant might help patrons find their seats, direct them to restrooms or oversee the lost and found. The attendant also takes admission tickets and verifies that the tickets are authentic. At a hotel, the attendant might direct guests to the front desk or other amenities such as gym facilities or the hotel restaurant.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Lobby attendants keep every area of the lobby clean and ready for visitors. This often includes vacuuming or sweeping the floors, emptying ashtrays and cleaning the front desk. They’re also responsible for maintaining the public restrooms adjacent to the lobby, which includes restocking necessities such as toilet paper, paper towels and soap. If the lobby or entrance has tiled or wood floors, they might also polish or wax them at the end of the night.

Maintaining Order

At many venues, the lobby attendant ensures everything runs smoothly and monitors guests’ behavior. At a theater, for example, the attendant might warn a guest that he’s not allowed to bring in outside food or drink. The attendant might also deny entrance to anyone who's obviously intoxicated or who's dressed or behaving inappropriately. The attendant also enforces safety rules and resolves problems among patrons, such as confusion over assigned seating.