Lead Bartender

LEAD BARTENDER 

REPORTS TO: CORPORATE BEVERAGE DIRECTOR 

STATUS: NON - EXEMPT 
 

OVERVIEW 
Hank’s Oyster Bar Dupont Circle has rebranded their 2nd floor bar and patio space to Back Door Tacos: a lively cantina inspired taco and margarita bar.  The Lead Bartender plays a vital role in the smooth operation of this bar forward concept, helping to create a sense of place while providing efficient yet personable service throughout the shift.  

DAILY RESPONSIBILITIES  

At the beginning of each shift: 

• Refer to bartender chat log from last night’s shift to catch up on last night’s notable information (i.e.. 86s and low stock items) 

• Pull all fresh product (i.e. fresh juices and syrups) from bar coolers and taste for freshness.  Dump all spoiled/out of date product and update bartender chat log/notify bar prep that more will be needed to meet pre-set pars 

• Set up top bar including bar mats, shaker tins and bar tools, bar caddies, bitters and fresh garnishes 

• Check par levels on any batched cocktails.  Prep more where necessary to meet pre-set pars. 

• Restock and set up all service items, according to pars.  This includes menus, roll-ups, share plates, pens, paper, check presenters 

• Reorganize back bar, coolers, and all storage areas, facing all products in accordance with pre-set placement levels 

 
During the shift: 

• Take orders for all food and beverage. 

• Prepare beverages to recipe specifications. 

• Help to maintain/keep organized all bar coolers/storage areas 

• Maintain appropriate garnish levels, checking for freshness frequently 

• Maintain cleanliness, organization and stock of top bar and bar caddies 

• Acts as a role model for outstanding service; continuously works to elevate service standards and personally embodies hospitality in daily actions. 

• Able to perform all POS functions, including opening and closing procedures, comps, voids, and transfers. 

• During service, provides excellent customer service to all guests, manages customer relationships and mitigates any guest concerns with the highest possible level of service and hospitality. 

• Coordinates with back-of-house team members to ensure timely service, food quality, and overall organization and cleanliness. 

After the shift: 

• Restock all service items, bar caddies, bar coolers, and storage areas to their pre-set par levels.  This includes beer, wine, liquor, and NA beverages 

• Make sure back bar, top bar, and storage cubbies are clean, stocked, and organized 

• Check par levels on all chilled items, restocking where necessary according to pre-set par levels (canned beers and white wines) 

• Fill out all pertinent information in the bartender chat log making sure to mention everything noteworthy for the following day’s bartenders 

• Count out drawer and complete end of shift deposits. 

BEVERAGE DELIVERY STANDARDS 

• No beverage should be made or served without a ticket or being rung in by the bartender.  Period. 

• All beverages should be made to the exact specifications of Hank’s recipes, including ingredients, portions, preparation methods, glassware, and presentation/garnishes. 

• Ensure proper presentation/garnishing of all cocktails going out the service window 

 
RESTAURANT OPERATIONS 

• Follows all Employee Handbook guidelines. 

• Serves all guests while monitoring food and beverage quality. 

• Updates POS system with daily menu specials (where applicable). 

DAILY ACCOUNTING/RECORD KEEPING 

• Fills out daily managers log via Avero. 

• Follows proper cash handling and bank deposit procedures as assigned. 

• Follows Cash Handling SOP procedures to ensure accuracy and safe cash handling. 

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES 

• 2+ years minimum bar experience required, preferably with 1+ year(s) in a supervisor capacity.  

• Must possess current ABRA liquor manager’s license. 

• High school diploma or GED 

• Adaptable in a fast-paced and challenging work environment. 

• Ability to work nights and weekends. 

• Ability to perform essential job duties and maintain professionalism when working under pressure. 

• Polished personal presentation that meets Company standards. 

PHYSICAL DEMANDS 

• Seeing, hearing, and speaking. 

• Able to lift up to 50 pounds occasionally. 

• Able to walk, stand, and/or bend continuously and for extended periods as required to perform essential job functions. 

These physical requirements may be accomplished with or without reasonable accommodation. 

EEO STATEMENT: JL Restaurant Group is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer.  We do not discriminate on the basis race, color, creed, religion, gender (including gender identity and expression), sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, childbirth or related condition, sexual and reproductive health decisions, ancestry, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristic, status as a victim of domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking, or any other legally protected status.