Lead Bartender

.About Us:

The Popal Group is a growing, family-driven boutique hospitality group setting the standard for upscale dining and cocktail experiences. We take pride in creating unforgettable moments for our guests through exceptional service, thoughtfully crafted beverages, and an inviting ambiance. We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Lead Bartender for Lapis and Lapop. The ideal candidate is passionate about curating exceptional guest experiences and consistently elevating the art of hospitality.

Position Summary

The Lead Bartender is responsible for overseeing bar operations during service, ensuring high-quality beverage execution, exceptional guest experience, and team leadership behind the bar. This role sets the tone for hospitality, maintains consistency in drinks and service standards, and supports management with training, inventory, and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Bar Leadership & Execution
Lead bar operations during assigned shifts, ensuring smooth and efficient service. Maintain full knowledge of all cocktails, wine, beer, and specialty offerings. Ensure consistency, presentation, and quality of all beverages served. Act as the point of contact for bar staff during service.

2. Team Supervision & Development
Train, mentor, and coach bartenders and barbacks. Set expectations for performance, cleanliness, and professionalism. Assist in onboarding new team members and ongoing training. Provide feedback and support to improve team performance.

3. Guest Experience
Deliver exceptional, engaging, and personalized service to guests. Build relationships with regulars and create a welcoming bar atmosphere. Handle guest concerns and resolve issues promptly and professionally.

4. Inventory & Cost Control
Assist with inventory management, ordering, and stock organization. Monitor product usage, waste, and pour consistency. Ensure proper storage, labeling, and rotation of all bar products. Support cost control initiatives and bar profitability.

5. Operational Standards & Compliance
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bar at all times. Ensure compliance with health, safety, and alcohol service regulations. Follow all opening, mid-shift, and closing procedures accurately.

6. POS & Cash Handling
Accurately process transactions using POS systems (e.g., Toast). Manage tabs, cash handling, and end-of-shift reconciliation. Ensure accuracy in orders, modifiers, and payments.

Qualifications
3+ years of bartending experience, with at least 1 year in a leadership role. Strong knowledge of classic cocktails, spirits, wine, and beer. Experience with POS systems (Toast preferred). Excellent communication and leadership skills. Ability to multitask and perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment. Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Key Competencies
Leadership & accountability. Attention to detail. Guest engagement & hospitality. Product
knowledge. Time management. Problem-solving.

Work Environment
Fast-paced, high-volume bar setting. Prolonged standing, lifting, and repetitive motion. Ability to lift up to 40 lbs as needed.