Bartender
Description

 

Position Summary 

The Bartender is responsible for creating exceptional guest experiences through the preparation and service of high-quality beverages while delivering personalized, attentive, and engaging service. As a key member of the Food & Beverage team, the Bartender serves as an ambassador of the Palm House brand, ensuring every interaction reflects the hotel's luxury hospitality standards and commitment to excellence. 

The ideal candidate is passionate about hospitality, knowledgeable in classic and contemporary cocktails, and dedicated to creating memorable experiences for guests. This position requires professionalism, attention to detail, strong communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced luxury environment. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities 

Guest Experience & Service Excellence 

  • Greet guests warmly and create a welcoming, engaging atmosphere at the bar and throughout the outlet. 
  • Deliver personalized service by anticipating guest needs and preferences. 
  • Build rapport with guests while maintaining a professional and polished demeanor. 
  • Provide recommendations on cocktails, wines, spirits, beers, and menu offerings. 
  • Ensure all guest interactions reflect Palm House luxury service standards. 
  • Address guest concerns promptly and professionally, escalating issues when necessary. 

Beverage Preparation & Service 

  • Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to established recipes and presentation standards. 
  • Demonstrate extensive knowledge of spirits, wines, beers, cocktails, and beverage trends. 
  • Ensure consistency, quality, and accuracy in all beverage preparation. 
  • Maintain proper portion control and adhere to responsible alcohol service guidelines. 
  • Verify guest identification and comply with all applicable alcohol service laws and regulations. 
  • Monitor guest consumption and exercise sound judgment regarding alcohol service. 

Bar Operations 

  • Set up, stock, and maintain the bar before, during, and after service. 
  • Ensure adequate inventory of liquor, beer, wine, mixers, garnishes, glassware, and supplies. 
  • Maintain cleanliness, organization, and sanitation of all bar areas. 
  • Assist with inventory counts, product rotation, and requisitions as assigned. 
  • Minimize waste and support cost-control initiatives. 

Cash Handling & Administrative Responsibilities 

  • Accurately process guest checks and payments. 
  • Operate the point-of-sale (POS) system efficiently and accurately. 
  • Balance cash drawers and complete required financial procedures at the end of each shift. 
  • Maintain accurate records of transactions and follow established cash-handling policies. 

Team Collaboration 

  • Work closely with servers, food runners, kitchen staff, and management to ensure seamless service. 
  • Communicate effectively with team members regarding guest requests and operational needs. 
  • Support fellow team members during busy service periods. 
  • Participate in departmental meetings, training sessions, and ongoing development programs. 

Forbes & Luxury Service Standards 

  • Consistently uphold Forbes Travel Guide standards and Palm House luxury service expectations. 
  • Maintain exceptional attention to detail in beverage presentation and guest interactions. 
  • Demonstrate professionalism, urgency, and a commitment to exceeding guest expectations. 
  • Stay current on industry trends, cocktail techniques, and beverage knowledge. 

Qualifications 

Education 

  • High School Diploma or GED required. 
  • Hospitality, Culinary, Beverage, or related certifications preferred. 

Experience 

  • Minimum of one (1) year of bartending experience required. 
  • Luxury hotel, fine dining, upscale restaurant, or resort experience preferred. 
  • Previous experience with craft cocktails, premium spirits, and wine service preferred. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities 

  • Strong knowledge of cocktail preparation, wine, beer, and spirits. 
  • Excellent guest service and interpersonal skills. 
  • Strong communication and sales abilities. 
  • Ability to multitask and remain composed in a fast-paced environment. 
  • Basic math and cash-handling skills. 
  • Proficiency with POS systems and payment processing. 
  • Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events. 

Working Conditions 

  • Fast-paced restaurant and bar environment with continuous guest interaction. 
  • Exposure to alcoholic beverages, cleaning chemicals, and varying temperatures. 
  • Requires standing and walking for extended periods throughout the shift. 

Physical Requirements 

  • Ability to stand and walk for up to eight (8) hours per shift. 
  • Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 40 pounds. 
  • Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and kneel frequently. 
  • Manual dexterity required to prepare beverages and operate bar equipment. 
  • Ability to work efficiently in a high-volume environment while maintaining attention to detail.