Job Description

Head Bartender
Job Title: Head Bartender
Department: Bar
Reports To: Bar Manager / General Manager
Job Overview:
The Head Bartender is the creative and operational leader of the bar program. This role is responsible for not only executing flawless service but also for contributing to menu development, maintaining inventory, and training bar staff. They are a master of their craft, possessing deep product knowledge and the ability to engage guests while working with precision and speed. The Head Bartender sets the tone for the entire bar area and is a brand ambassador for the establishment's beverage philosophy.
Key Responsibilities:

• Bar Program Leadership:
• Develop, refine, and cost out new cocktail recipes in alignment with the restaurant's concept and seasonality.
• Maintain the highest standards for quality, consistency, and presentation of all beverages.
• Conduct regular tastings and training sessions for all FOH staff on wine, beer, and spirits.
• Stay current with industry trends and introduce innovative techniques and products.
• Bar Operations & Service:
• Oversee the entire bar area during shifts, ensuring efficient service for both bar guests and service well.
• Prepare and serve a wide range of beverages, from classic cocktails to complex originals, with speed and accuracy.
• Provide an engaging and memorable experience for guests seated at the bar.
• Manage the service well, ensuring servers' drink tickets are completed in a timely manner.
• Inventory & Ordering:
• Conduct weekly inventory of all liquor, beer, wine, and bar supplies.
• Place orders with distributors and suppliers, managing pars to minimize waste and prevent stock-outs.
• Control liquor costs by minimizing spillage, over-pouring, and waste.
• Ensure the bar is fully stocked and set up for service, and properly broken down at the end of the night.
• Team Training & Supervision:
• Train, mentor, and supervise all bartenders and barbacks.
• Create training manuals and cocktail recipe sheets for the bar team.
• Delegate tasks to barbacks, including stocking, juicing, cleaning, and restocking.
• Lead by example in professionalism, customer service, and mixology skills.
• Cleanliness & Compliance:
• Enforce strict adherence to all sanitation, health, and safety regulations.
• Ensure the bar area, equipment, and glassware are kept impeccably clean.
• Verify all staff are following responsible alcohol service guidelines and checking IDs.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Minimum of 3-4 years of experience as a bartender in a high-volume, craft cocktail environment.
• Expert knowledge of mixology, spirits, wine, and beer.
• Proven experience in cocktail development and menu costing.
• Strong leadership and training skills.
• Excellent time management and organizational abilities.
• Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining a positive demeanor.
• Deep understanding of state and local health codes and liquor laws.

Skills Required