Lead Bartender

Position Summary

The Lead Bartender combines elite technical mixology skills with foundational leadership responsibilities. In this role, you will maintain the highest standards of beverage quality and guest service while actively supporting management in daily operations.

The Lead Bartender serves as a mentor to the bar team, helps oversee inventory controls, ensures compliance with health and safety standards, and assists in executing the vision of the beverage program. This position is ideal for a hospitality professional who is passionate about craft beverages, team development, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Staff Development

• Assist with onboarding and training new bartenders and barbacks.
• Provide ongoing coaching on technique, product knowledge, and service standards.
• Lead by example through professionalism, positivity, and exceptional hospitality.
• Support shift execution by managing station assignments, delegating side work, and resolving operational issues in real time.
• Help maintain a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Bar Operations & Inventory Management

• Assist with inventory counts and monitor product usage, variances, and pour costs.
• Support ordering, receiving, and stocking of spirits, wine, beer, and bar supplies.
• Maintain proper inventory levels while minimizing waste.
• Oversee daily prep production, including syrups, juices, garnishes, and batched ingredients.
• Ensure all products meet freshness, quality, and recipe specifications.

Beverage Program Execution

• Execute the cocktail and beverage program with absolute consistency.
• Ensure recipes, presentation standards, and portion controls are followed precisely.
• Collaborate with management on seasonal menu development and new beverage offerings.
• Maintain comprehensive knowledge of cocktails, spirits, wine, beer, coffee, tea, and emerging industry trends.
• Assist with menu testing, staff education, and beverage program rollouts.

Guest Experience & Compliance

• Deliver exceptional hospitality and personalized guest experiences.
• Build relationships with regular guests and create memorable interactions.
• Address guest concerns professionally and effectively.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization behind the bar at all times.
• Ensure compliance with local health department regulations and company standards.
• Monitor and enforce responsible alcohol service practices, including ID verification and guest safety procedures.

Qualifications

Required Experience

• 3+ years of bartending experience in a high-volume or craft-focused environment.
• Previous leadership, training, or shift supervision experience preferred.
• Proven ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining exceptional guest service.

Technical Skills

• Advanced understanding of beverage preparation beyond standard bartending techniques.
• Experience with ingredient preparation, batching, syrups, infusions, garnishes, and culinary beverage methods.
• Strong attention to detail and consistency in execution.
• Experience with POS systems and inventory management processes.

Certifications

• Valid Food Handler Card.
• Alcohol Awareness Certification (TAM Card).
• Any required local work permits or certifications.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail.

Availability

• Flexible schedule required.
• Availability to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Core Competencies

Leadership

Ability to motivate, coach, and support team members while maintaining high performance standards.

Communication

Clear and professional communication with guests, peers, and management.

Organization

Strong attention to cleanliness, station setup, prep systems, and operational procedures.

Problem Solving

Ability to remain calm under pressure and quickly resolve guest concerns or operational challenges.

Hospitality

Passion for creating exceptional guest experiences and fostering a welcoming environment.

Why Join Us?

At The Coffee Class, we believe exceptional hospitality begins with exceptional people. This role offers the opportunity to help shape a growing beverage program while working alongside a team committed to quality, creativity, and genuine hospitality.

Work schedule

• Weekend availability
• Holidays

Supplemental pay

• Tips

Benefits

• Paid time off
• Health insurance
• 401(k)