Seasonal Bartender (May-October 2025)

Join the iconic Santa Monica Proper Hotel, where historic charm meets contemporary luxury in the heart of Santa Monica. As a seamless merger of historic retrofit and new construction, our 267-room boutique hotel showcases stunning interior design by international style icon Kelly Wearstler, tantalizing dining options by local culinary stars, and a show-stopping rooftop lounge and swimming pool. With 16,000 square feet of sophisticated meeting and event space, we create unforgettable experiences for our guests. We're seeking a polished, charismatic Seasonal Bartender to join our team.

Our most successful candidates bring a minimum of 3-5 years of experience from renowned hotel restaurants, private clubs, or signature hospitality venues. Your expertise should reflect an innate ability to create memorable first impressions, coordinate sophisticated dining room operations, and embody the gracious hospitality that defines our luxury rooftop experience. The ideal candidate possesses exceptional mixology skills, genuine hospitality warmth, meticulous attention to detail, and the adaptability to thrive in a luxury environment while maintaining composure during high-volume service periods.

This role has a tentative end date as late as October 13th, 2025 (based on operational need).

Job Summary:

The Bartender at Santa Monica Proper Hotel creates exceptional beverage experiences by crafting artisanal cocktails, providing attentive service, and contributing to our sophisticated atmosphere while maintaining the highest standards of product knowledge, presentation, and guest interaction. This position requires technical expertise in mixology, exceptional interpersonal skills, the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced luxury environment, and a passion for creating memorable moments for our discerning clientele

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages following standard recipes and hotel specifications
• Create signature and classic cocktails with precision and flair
• Maintain bar inventory and assist with ordering supplies
• Ensure compliance with all alcohol service regulations and responsible beverage service
• Provide exceptional service to hotel guests and visitors
• Process payments accurately and maintain cash handling procedures
• Keep bar area clean, organized, and well-stocked
• Collaborate with kitchen and service staff to ensure seamless dining experiences
• Recommend beverages to complement food selections
• Work cooperatively with barbacks, servers, and kitchen staff
• Communicate effectively about inventory levels and service needs
• Other duties as required

Qualification Standards

Your role demands an elevated understanding of fine dining operations, including:

• Minimum 3 years of bartending experience, preferably in a luxury hotel or upscale restaurant setting
• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop staff.
• Excellent knowledge of classic and contemporary cocktails, spirits, wines, and local craft beers
• Strong multitasking abilities and the ability to work efficiently under pressure.
• Ability to work well both independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, particularly when it comes to cleanliness and inventory management.
• Ability to remember drink orders, guest preferences, and keep track of tabs in a high-volume environment.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Previous experience as a bartender required.
• Knowledge of drink recipes, cocktail techniques, and various types of spirits and beverages.
• CA Food Handler's Card and ABC/RBS Certification required

Skills and Competencies

• Comprehensive knowledge of classic and contemporary cocktail recipes and techniques
• Proficiency in crafting signature and custom cocktails
• Expert understanding of spirit categories, flavor profiles, and complementary ingredients
• Mastery of various bartending techniques (shaking, stirring, muddling, layering)
• Ability to properly use and maintain specialized bar equipment
• Knowledge of proper glassware selection and presentation standards
• Knowledge of proper sanitation and safety procedures
• Ability to manage bar setup, maintenance, and breakdown efficiently

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand and move around the bar for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy items, such as bottles, kegs, and glassware (up to 25 pounds).
• Ability to work in a high-energy, fast-paced environment, particularly during peak service hours.
• Ability to occasionally bend, reach, and stoop to access storage areas or restock supplies.
• Capability to work in varying lighting conditions (bright daytime sun to evening mood lighting)

Company Overview

Proper Hospitality is made up of a diverse group of passionate individuals who share a common love for hotels and the art of hospitality. Our philosophy is simple: There is a right way to do things and anything less just isn't proper. We are seeking out the best of the best from inside and outside of the industry to work alongside us as we grow a new kind of lifestyle Hospitality Company inspired by a centuries-old tradition. The work is challenging and fast-paced but rewarding above all.

Proper Hospitality provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.

Proper Hospitality will consider qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with local Fair Chance Hiring Ordinances.