Head Bartender

The Head Bartender is responsible for overseeing the bar team, ensuring seamless service, and upholding the highest standards in beverage execution. This role requires strong leadership, a deep understanding of cocktails, spirits, and wine, and the ability to create an engaging and hospitable bar experience. The Head Bartender serves as a key liaison between the beverage program and service teams, supporting staff development and operational excellence.

Task and Responsibilities

• Supervise and mentor the bar team, ensuring they execute proper steps of service with efficiency and grace.
• Train bar staff on cocktail techniques, spirits knowledge, wine service, and hospitality standards.
• Provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback to maintain a high-functioning team.
• Ensure team adherence to state, federal, and company policies regarding alcohol service.
• Oversee bar operations during service, ensuring guests receive exceptional hospitality.
• Support bartenders in navigating guests through beverage and food menus, making recommendations as needed.
• Monitor guest feedback and proactively address service concerns to enhance the overall experience.
• Uphold the integrity of the beverage program by ensuring drinks are prepared and presented according to company standards.
• Describe and suggest food, wine and beverage selections, and take guest order
• Ensure proper daily setup and breakdown of the bar, delegating tasks to the team as necessary.
• Oversee the stocking and organization of all beer, wine, spirits, and bar essentials.
• Ensure the quality and freshness of garnishes, juices, and perishable bar ingredients.
• Conduct regular inventory counts and assist with ordering supplies to maintain stock levels.
• Ensure compliance with DOL/Health Department regulations and enforce safety and cleanliness standards.
• Monitor bar sales and assist in beverage cost control strategies.
• Ensure accurate processing of transactions and proper cash handling by the team.
• Lock and secure bar assets, including inventory, cash, and equipment at the end of service.
• Assist in developing new cocktails, seasonal menus, and beverage pairings in collaboration with the beverage director.
• Oversee bar operations during private events, ensuring successful execution of beverage service.
• Coordinate with management and event planners to tailor beverage offerings for special occasions.
• Ensure bar team is properly prepared for high-volume service during events and special promotions.

Specific Job Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• 2-3 years of experience in a leadership role within a high-volume, fine dining or craft cocktail environment.
• Expertise in cocktails, spirits, wine, and bar service management.
• Strong leadership skills with experience in training and team development.
• Ability to troubleshoot operational issues and maintain efficiency in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of POS systems and inventory management software.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail.

Key Competencies

• Decision-making, problem-solving, and the ability to lead under pressure.
• Exceptional communication and guest service skills.
• Ability to foster teamwork and maintain a positive work culture.
• A passion for hospitality and commitment to delivering a world-class bar experience.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand for long periods and work in a high-energy environment.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and perform tasks that require bending, reaching, and kneeling.

Position Requirements 

• 2-3 years previous experience at a fine dining high volume restaurant. 
• Knowledgeable on spirits/cocktails /wine, all aspects of service. 
• General knowledge of food preparation methods and culinary terminology. 
• Ability to assist with counting monthly inventory and bar staff training. 
• Ability to work a variable schedule, including weekends, and shifts from morning through late night
• Proficient computer skills (Microsoft)