The posting
Be part of the opening team of an elegant Fine Dining Restaurant / French Bistro, led by a Michelin-starred Culinary Director.
Located in the heart of the Japanese Alps in Nagano Prefecture, at the foot of one of Japan's most renowned ski resorts, the restaurant will offer a refined dining experience in an exceptional natural setting.
Set within two distinctive boutique hotels, this unique project combines refined hospitality, exceptional cuisine, and an outstanding natural environment.
Location: Hotel La Neige, Hakuba
Employment Type: Full-time, Seasonal
Work Hours: Avg of 40 hours per week
Reports to: Operations Director
Must Have
- Legal right to live and work in Japan (typically via a Working Holiday Visa)
- Previous experience as an Assistant Manager preferably in a Michelin-starred restaurants and/or high-quality bistro operations
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse guest backgrounds and preferences
- Ability to commit to the full winter season (December 1, 2026 - March 31, 2027)
What We Look For
- Previous experience as an Assistant Manager preferably in a Michelin-starred restaurants and/or high-quality bistro operations
- Fluent English is essential; Japanese is preferred; French language skills are a bonus
- Skills as a barista or bartender
- Willingness to work flexible hours and holidays
- Ability to handle a fast-paced and dynamic work environment
- Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in guest reservations
Nice to have
- Japanese driving license or International Driving Permit
- Applicants eligible for the Working Holiday Visa are preferred for seasonal roles
- A love for nature, snow, and creating great guest experiences
- Team player and adaptable to new environments
Assistant Manager Duties
- Food and Beverage Operations: Oversee all aspects of food and beverage service, coordinate with kitchen staff, ensure timely preparation, and maintain high standards of presentation and quality.
- Customer Service: Ensure exceptional service by training and supervising staff, addressing customer inquiries and concerns, and promptly resolving issues.
- Beverage Program: Maintain beverage menu with diverse alcoholic and non-alcoholic options. Train staff on cocktail recipes and presentation, and ensure proper beverage handling.
- Coffee Program: Manage coffee preparation and service, train staff on brewing methods, maintain quality and consistency, and keep equipment properly maintained.
- Inventory Management: Assist with tracking supplies for front-of-house operations, including alcohol, mixers, coffee supplies, and other essentials.
- Staff Management: Assist venue managers with scheduling, delegating tasks, and assigning positions during service.
- Financial Management: Handle cash transactions, maintain accurate registers, ensure compliance with procedures, monitor inventory, and implement cost control strategies.
- Sanitation and Safety: Maintain clean, hygienic environment, adhere to health and safety regulations, and regularly inspect equipment for cleanliness and functionality.
- Team Leadership: Train, motivate, and supervise staff while fostering a positive work environment and coordinating with other departments for seamless operations.
Assistant Manager Shifts
Assistant Managers are required to work approximately 40 hours per week. HHG F&B venues will be open from 7am and stay open until 10pm or later, which necessitates organizing shifts between these hours.
Work Location
This position will be based at one of two restaurant venues located within walking distance of each other in the Wadano area of Hakuba, Nagano.
SÈVE – An elegant French fine dining restaurant located within HHG's flagship luxury property, Hotel La Neige.
Bistro – A French bistro located next door within our Nishikan Hotel.
Accommodation
HHG provides accommodation in central Hakuba (mainly in Happo, Wadano, and Kamishiro areas). Options include shared, dormitory, or private rooms depending on your role.
Perks
Competitive hourly rate and eligibility for an end-of-season bonus
Housing Support
Subsidized shared housing in Hakuba, and staff shuttle services
Work Life Balance
Variety of shift patterns and proximity to resorts
Eat & Drink
Discounts at HHG outlets



