Lead Bartender

Position Summary

The Lead Bartender is responsible for delivering exceptional guest service while overseeing the daily operations of the hotel bar. This position leads by example, ensures compliance with all alcohol service laws and Hilton brand standards, maintains high beverage quality, supports banquet bar operations, and assists with training and coaching bartenders and restaurant team members.

The Lead Bartender reports directly to the Food & Beverage Manager or Executive Chef and works closely with restaurant, banquet, and hotel leadership to create an outstanding guest experience.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Guest Service

• Provide friendly, professional, and engaging service to every guest.
• Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to recipes and brand standards.
• Make beverage recommendations and upsell premium products.
• Create a welcoming atmosphere for hotel guests and local patrons.
• Resolve guest concerns quickly and professionally.

Leadership

• Lead each shift by setting expectations and ensuring smooth operations.
• Assist in scheduling and assigning bartender duties when requested.
• Train new bartenders on hotel procedures, POS operation, recipes, sanitation, and responsible alcohol service.
• Coach team members to improve service, speed, and beverage quality.
• Communicate operational issues to management promptly.

Operations

• Open and close the bar following hotel procedures.
• Ensure all cash handling and POS transactions are accurate.
• Maintain proper liquor inventory and complete liquor counts as assigned.
• Monitor pour costs and minimize waste.
• Restock beer, liquor, wine, mixers, garnishes, and supplies.
• Ensure glassware and equipment remain clean and organized.
• Maintain attractive bar displays.

Banquets & Events

• Assist with banquet bar setup and breakdown.
• Ensure banquet bars are fully stocked before events.
• Support weddings, meetings, conventions, and special events.
• Coordinate with banquet staff to provide timely beverage service.

Safety & Compliance

• Verify guest age and refuse service when required by law.
• Follow all state alcohol laws and responsible beverage service practices.
• Maintain food safety and sanitation standards.
• Ensure cleanliness of the bar, storage areas, coolers, and equipment.
• Report maintenance or safety concerns immediately.

Inventory

• Perform weekly and monthly inventory counts.
• Assist with ordering beer, liquor, wine, and bar supplies.
• Monitor product expiration dates.
• Control waste and prevent product loss.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of bartending experience.
• Previous supervisory or lead experience preferred.
• Hotel experience preferred.
• Knowledge of cocktails, beer, wine, and spirits.
• Excellent guest service and communication skills.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic computer and POS system knowledge.
• Current TABC Certification (or ability to obtain before employment).
• Food Handler Certification preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Stand and walk for extended periods.
• Lift up to 50 pounds.
• Frequently bend, reach, twist, and carry supplies.
• Work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as business demands.

Performance Expectations

The Lead Bartender is expected to:

• Deliver exceptional hospitality on every shift.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked bar.
• Ensure beverage consistency and quality.
• Achieve beverage cost and inventory goals.
• Support Hilton guest satisfaction goals.
• Demonstrate professionalism and teamwork.
• Follow all hotel policies, Hilton brand standards, and local alcohol regulations.
• Serve as a positive role model for all Food & Beverage team members.

Preferred Characteristics

The ideal candidate is:

• Guest-focused and hospitality driven.
• Dependable and punctual.
• Positive and energetic.
• Organized and detail-oriented.
• Comfortable leading others by example.
• Able to remain calm under pressure.
• Passionate about creating memorable guest experiences.

Hilton Garden Inn is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in the workplace.