Kilihune Mendiola-Jensen
Pearl City,HI
Summary
Experienced hospitality and customer service professional with over 8 years of experience across hotel, restaurant, bar, and event operations. Proven ability to deliver exceptional guest experiences in fast-paced, high-volume environments while maintaining operational efficiency. Strong interpersonal communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills, complemented by research experience and a demonstrated commitment to precision and responsibility.
Overview
11
11
years of professional experience
2017
2017
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Server
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman
Waikiki, HI
01.2023 - Current
- Deliver elevated guest service in a fast-paced, upscale dining environment.
- Coordinate closely with kitchen and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless service flow.
- Manage multiple tables simultaneously while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.
- Serve as a leadership presence on the floor, supporting team efficiency and guest satisfaction.
Lead Server
Wild Orange Speakeasy
Honolulu, HI
01.2021 - 01.2024
- Provided high-quality service in a high-volume bar setting.
- Trained and mentored new staff on service standards and guest engagement.
- Promoted menu offerings and signature cocktails to increase check averages and repeat business.
Server
MW Restaurant
Honolulu, HI
01.2018 - 01.2021
- Delivered fine-dining experiences through proactive guest engagement and efficient service.
- Maintained detailed knowledge of seasonal menus and wine pairings.
- Supported a team-oriented service model in an upscale restaurant environment.
Front Desk Associate & Event Coordinator
Hilton Omaha
Omaha, NE
01.2016 - 01.2018
- Managed guest check-ins, reservations, and inquiries with professionalism and accuracy.
- Coordinated accommodations and logistics for collegiate athletic teams and large-scale events.
- Partnered with event planners to execute meetings, banquets, and conferences successfully.
Sales Associate
T&C Retail
Honolulu, HI
01.2015 - 01.2016
- Assisted customers with product selection and purchase decisions.
- Maintained visually appealing merchandise displays and store organization.
- Processed transactions efficiently while delivering positive customer interactions.
Education
Kamehameha Kapalama
Honolulu, HIUndergraduate Coursework Completed -
Creighton University
Omaha, NESkills
- Customer Service & Hospitality Excellence
- Event Planning & Coordination
- POS
- Reservation System
- Team Leadership & Staff Training
- Communication & Problem Solving
- Time Management & Multitasking
Certification
Private Pilot License (PPL), 01/20
Research
Research Assistant, Creighton University School of Dentistry, Omaha, NE, 01/17, 01/18, Supported academic research initiatives within the dental school., Assisted with data collection, documentation, and research organization., Demonstrated attention to detail in step by step research protocols.
Timeline
Lead Server
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman
01.2023 - Current
Lead Server
Wild Orange Speakeasy
01.2021 - 01.2024
Server
MW Restaurant
01.2018 - 01.2021
Front Desk Associate & Event Coordinator
Hilton Omaha
01.2016 - 01.2018
Sales Associate
T&C Retail
01.2015 - 01.2016
Kamehameha Kapalama
Undergraduate Coursework Completed -
Creighton University