Overview
The Bartender is responsible for preparing and serving a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages while delivering exceptional guest service in a warm, engaging, and professional manner. This role plays a key part in creating a memorable guest experience through expert drink knowledge, efficient service, and genuine hospitality. The Bartender must maintain high standards of quality, cleanliness, and presentation while adhering to all safety, sanitation, and alcohol service regulations.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Guest Service & Experience
- Provide friendly, attentive, and professional service to all guests at the bar and lounge areas.
- Greet guests promptly, engage in conversation, and build rapport to create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Anticipate guest needs, respond to requests efficiently, and resolve concerns with professionalism.
- Offer knowledgeable recommendations on cocktails, wine, beer, and spirits based on guest preferences.
- Maintain awareness of guest satisfaction throughout the service period and ensure a positive experience.
Beverage Preparation & Service
- Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to established recipes, portion controls, and presentation standards.
- Ensure consistency, quality, and accuracy in all drinks prepared.
- Create specialty cocktails and seasonal beverages as directed by management.
- Verify guest age and ensure compliance with all alcohol service laws and company policies.
- Monitor guest alcohol consumption and practice responsible service at all times.
Bar Operations & Efficiency
- Accurately take drink orders from guests and servers and prepare beverages in a timely manner.
- Process cash, credit card, and POS transactions accurately and responsibly.
- Maintain an organized, clean, and fully stocked bar area throughout each shift.
- Ensure all glassware, bar tools, and equipment are clean, sanitized, and properly stored.
- Complete opening, closing, and side work duties as assigned.
Inventory & Stock Management
- Assist with stocking, restocking, and rotating bar inventory including liquor, beer, wine, mixers, garnishes, and supplies.
- Notify management of low inventory levels or product needs.
- Ensure proper storage and handling of all beverages and perishable items.
- Assist with periodic inventory counts as required.
Teamwork & Communication
- Work collaboratively with servers, hosts, barbacks, kitchen staff, and management to ensure seamless service.
- Communicate effectively with team members regarding guest needs, special requests, and service flow.
- Support team members during high-volume periods to maintain service standards.
- Maintain a positive, professional attitude at all times.
Compliance, Safety & Sanitation
- Adhere to all company policies, brand standards, and local/state alcohol regulations.
- Follow all health, safety, and sanitation guidelines, including proper food handling procedures.
- Maintain a safe and clean work environment for guests and team members.
- Report any safety hazards, equipment issues, or incidents to management immediately.
Qualifications
- Minimum of 2 years of bartending experience in a high-volume or upscale environment preferred.
- Strong knowledge of classic cocktails, wine, beer, spirits, and beverage service techniques.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and guest engagement skills.
- Ability to remain calm, focused, and professional in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and consistency.
- Must be at least 18/21 years of age (per state/local requirements) and eligible to serve alcohol.
- Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time throughout the shift.
- Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds, including kegs, cases of liquor, ice, and supplies.
- Repetitive hand, wrist, and arm movements required for mixing, pouring, and garnishing drinks.
- Ability to bend, reach, twist, and crouch to access supplies and equipment.