Lead Bartender

Onni Group • Chicago, IL

4d • Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Bartender is responsible for overseeing bar operations, delivering exceptional guest experiences, and leading the bar team to maintain high standards of quality, efficiency, and service. This role combines hands-on bartending with leadership, training, inventory management, and collaboration with restaurant management.

Requirements

• 2-4+ years bartending experience, with at least 1 year in a leadership role
• Open availability, including evenings and occasional weekends
• Strong knowledge of cocktails, spirits, beer, and wine
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Proven ability to lead a team in a fast-paced environment
• Knowledge of inventory control and cost management
• Must meet all local alcohol service certification requirements
• Leadership and team development
• Organization and attention to detail
• Multitasking and time management
• Problem-solving and conflict resolution
• High level of accountability and professionalism
• Employees are expected to use AI responsibly and in compliance with company policies, data privacy requirements, confidentiality obligations, and applicable laws.
• All AI-generated or AI-assisted outputs must be reviewed for accuracy, quality, and appropriateness before use.
• Employees are also expected to disclose when AI tools have been used in the creation of work and must not present AI-generated content as solely their own original work.

Responsibilities

• Provide outstanding, friendly, and knowledgeable service to all guests
• Create a welcoming and energetic bar atmosphere
• Make high-quality beverages consistently according to recipes and standards
• Handle guest concerns with professionalism and urgency
• Oversee daily bar setup, cleanliness, and organization
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and alcohol service regulations
• Monitor product quality, freshness, and presentation
• Maintain equipment and coordinate repairs when needed
• Lead, coach, and motivate bartenders and bar support staff
• Train new hires on recipes, service standards, and procedures
• Set expectations for service speed, professionalism, and teamwork
• Act as the point of contact for all staff during shifts
• Manage inventory levels, ordering, and receiving of bar products
• Conduct regular inventory counts and minimize waste
• Monitor liquor, beer, and wine usage to control costs
• Ensure proper storage and labeling of all products
• Assist in creating and updating cocktail menus
• Stay current on beverage trends and industry innovations
• Recommend new products and seasonal offerings
• Support scheduling and staffing needs in coordination with management
• Track sales trends and bar performance metrics
• Assist with vendor relationships and product selection

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Comprehensive Benefit Package
• Health Saving Account
• Flexible Saving Account
• Employee Assistance Program
• Annual Education Allowance
• Generous Referral Program
• Fun & collaborative company culture with lots of team building events
• Friends and Family rates for Level Hotels & Furnished Suites, The Opus Hotel, and The Emily Hotel

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed