Lead Bartender

[Hotel Descriptor]

Job Summary:

The Lead Bartender is a senior role within the bar team, responsible for overseeing daily operations at the bar, ensuring a high level of service, and mentoring junior bartenders. You will be responsible for crafting cocktails, managing the bar area, and maintaining a positive, energetic environment while leading by example. The Lead Bartender works closely with the management team to ensure that the bar is well-stocked, organized, and operating efficiently, and is also responsible for training and developing bartending staff to ensure consistent quality and guest satisfaction.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Bar Management & Operations:
• Oversee the daily operations of the bar, ensuring efficient service and a positive guest experience.
• Manage the bar’s setup, stock levels, and cleanliness, ensuring all supplies are organized and readily available.
• Maintain the highest standards of drink quality and presentation, consistently ensuring that all drinks are prepared according to recipes and guest specifications.
• Monitor bar performance, including guest feedback, sales, and inventory, and adjust as needed to optimize bar operations.
• Coordinate with kitchen and service teams to ensure smooth communication and fast, accurate drink service during peak times.
• Leadership & Team Supervision:
• Lead by example, providing guidance and support to junior bartenders and bar staff, maintaining a positive work environment.
• Train, mentor, and coach bartenders on cocktail preparation, service standards, bar etiquette, and company policies.
• Create staff schedules, ensuring the bar is adequately staffed for busy periods and special events.
• Set clear performance expectations, conduct regular performance evaluations, and offer feedback to team members to ensure continuous improvement.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, collaboration, and accountability among the bar staff.
• Guest Experience & Customer Service:
• Provide excellent customer service by engaging with guests, addressing their needs, and ensuring their experience exceeds expectations.
• Handle guest concerns and complaints promptly, professionally, and with a solution-oriented approach, ensuring the guest’s satisfaction.
• Anticipate guest preferences and offer personalized recommendations for cocktails, wines, and beverages, ensuring a tailored experience.
• Promote a welcoming and lively atmosphere at the bar, interacting with guests to enhance their experience while maintaining a professional demeanor.
• Inventory & Stock Control:
• Oversee bar inventory, ensuring that liquor, mixers, garnishes, glassware, and other supplies are adequately stocked and stored according to safety regulations.
• Perform regular inventory checks and assist with ordering and replenishing stock as needed to avoid shortages or waste.
• Manage the proper storage and handling of alcoholic beverages, ensuring all items are properly labeled and stored.
• Monitor bar waste, over-pouring, and portion control, implementing measures to minimize costs and maximize profit margins.
• Quality Control & Standards:
• Ensure the cleanliness and organization of the bar area at all times, maintaining an efficient and safe work environment.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and alcohol service regulations, maintaining the highest standards of hygiene and sanitation.
• Enforce company policies, including responsible alcohol service, cash handling, and customer interactions.
• Regularly inspect bar equipment (e.g., blenders, shakers, coolers) to ensure proper functioning, reporting any issues to management.
• Event Support & Special Promotions:
• Assist in the creation and promotion of drink specials, happy hour offerings, and seasonal cocktail menus to attract guests and boost sales.
• Lead or assist with the execution of special events, tastings, or promotions, ensuring smooth operations and a high level of guest satisfaction.
• Collaborate with management to develop and implement promotional activities or themed nights to increase bar traffic and revenue.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional training in hospitality or bartending is a plus.
• Minimum of 3–5 years of bartending experience in a high-volume or upscale environment, with at least 1–2 years in a supervisory or lead role.
• In-depth knowledge of spirits, liqueurs, beers, wines, and cocktail preparation.
• Experience in managing bar operations, inventory control, and staff supervision.
• Certification in alcohol safety or bartending (e.g., TIPS, Responsible Beverage Service) is preferred.

Skills/Specialized Knowledge

• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and develop staff.
• Excellent customer service and communication skills, with the ability to engage guests and provide an exceptional experience.
• In-depth knowledge of cocktail recipes, bartending techniques, and beverage trends.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple tasks while maintaining focus on quality service.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks and delegate effectively.
• Proficient in handling inventory, stock management, and cost-control measures.

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.

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.