Catering and Event Bartender
About The Position
Catering by Michaels is seeking professional, energetic, hospitality-driven Event Bartenders to provide efficient, welcoming, and responsible beverage service at events throughout Chicago, the surrounding suburbs, and other areas of Illinois. Founded in 1980, the full-service catering and events company produces weddings, galas, corporate events, festivals, private parties, and other events at a range of venues, including ballrooms, private homes, museums, corporate venues, and outdoor locations. Event Bartenders prepare and serve beverages, create a professional bar environment, and adapt to each venue, guest expectations, beverage menu, equipment, and event timeline. They are also part of the overall event service team and may assist with guest service, serving, setup, breakdown, and other event responsibilities. This is a part-time, event-based W-2 position with flexible scheduling. Event shifts are communicated through a scheduling platform, and team members may accept or decline events based on their availability. Most events take place during evenings, weekends, and holidays, and availability during those times is essential.
Requirements
- Must be at least 21 years old.
- Strong knowledge of beer, wine, spirits, and basic cocktail preparation.
- Strong communication and customer service skills.
- Professional appearance, grooming, and demeanor.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure service environment.
- Ability to remain calm, courteous, and professional with guests.
- Ability to follow recipes, service standards, and direction from event leadership.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to responsible alcohol service.
- Willingness to assist with serving and other event responsibilities as needed.
- Reliable and dependable attendance.
- Reliable transportation; many event locations are not accessible by CTA alone.
- Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Ability to stand and remain active for extended periods, lift and carry items weighing up to 50 pounds, set up and break down bar areas and event equipment, and bend, reach, carry, and move throughout event spaces.
- Comfort working in varied indoor and outdoor environments.
Nice To Haves
- Previous bartending, catering, restaurant, or hospitality experience preferred.
- Spanish language skills are a plus.
Responsibilities
- Set up and break down bar areas, including unloading product and rentals from trucks and arranging the bar to company standards.
- Prepare and serve beer, wine, spirits, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages as directed.
- Follow event-specific beverage menus, recipes, and service instructions.
- Provide friendly, professional, and attentive service to guests.
- Keep the bar clean, organized, and properly stocked throughout the event.
- Demonstrate knowledge of beer, wine, spirits, cocktails, and other beverage offerings.
- Monitor guest consumption and follow responsible alcohol service procedures.
- Verify identification when required and refuse service when appropriate.
- Communicate professionally with guests, Event Captains, Function Directors, chefs, servers, venue staff, and other event partners.
- Assist with event setup, guest service, serving responsibilities, and breakdown as needed.
- Maintain control of bar inventory, equipment, glassware, and supplies.
- Follow company policies, food safety requirements, sanitation standards, and responsible alcohol service procedures.
- Represent Catering by Michaels with professionalism, courtesy, and hospitality.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Part-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
No Education Listed
