Lead Bartender

Lead Bartender Ryebird | Fairfield, CT

Job Type:

Ryebird is a neighborhood joint where friends, families, and solo flyers all feel at home. We re a welcome break from the day-to-day for any occasion, or no occasion at all.

Our New American menu offers something for everyone: right portions, right price, best quality. Simple dishes prepared expertly. Classics done well. Daily prix fixe specials. And at the heart of it all a great drinks program and an awesome cocktail experience. Curated music and lighting set the mood from the first afternoon guest to the last energetic evening crowd. Bar seats are first come, first served. The vibe is comfortably chill, and we wouldn t have it any other way.

We re looking for a Lead Bartender who gets it someone who can carry the energy of the bar from a quiet solo sip at noon to a full house buzzing by 9pm.

Why Ryebird?

• Be part of a growing neighborhood concept with real community roots in Fairfield, CT
  
• Collaborate on a creative, evolving cocktail program your voice matters here
  
• Work in a space where the music is curated, the lighting is intentional, and the vibe is always on point
  
• Competitive hourly pay plus tips in a high-volume environment
  
• Employee discounts on food & beverage
  
• Growth opportunities as Ryebird continues to expand its footprint (including The Reserve Room upstairs and an active private events & catering program)
  
• A team that takes hospitality seriously and has fun doing it
  

A Note From Us

Ryebird isn't trying to be the fanciest place in town. We're trying to be the best version of a neighborhood restaurant the kind of place people come back to because the food is solid, the drinks are great, and the people behind the bar make them feel like they belong. If that sounds like the kind of bar you want to lead, we want to hear from you.

The Role

As Lead Bartender, you are the face and backbone of the Ryebird bar program. You lead by example, set the standard for hospitality and execution, and take pride in both the craft and the connection. You re not just making drinks you re curating the experience, mentoring your team, and helping shape what Ryebird s bar becomes.

This is a hands-on leadership role that blends creative cocktail execution with operational ownership.

What You ll Do

Bar Leadership & Operations

• Lead day-to-day bar operations during service, setting the tone for energy, pace, and hospitality
  
• Open and close the bar, ensuring readiness, cleanliness, and organization at all times
  
• Support the management team in scheduling, training, and developing bartenders and barbacks
  
• Step in as bar lead in the absence of management, keeping things running smoothly
  

Cocktail Program & Beverage Execution

• Execute Ryebird s cocktail program with consistency, precision, and genuine enthusiasm
  
• Bring your creative input to seasonal menu updates, specialty cocktails, and daily features
  
• Demonstrate deep knowledge of spirits, classic and contemporary cocktails, wine, and beer
  
• Conduct regular team training on pouring technique, menu knowledge, and upselling
  

Guest Experience

• Welcome every guest whether it s a table of ten or a solo guest at the bar with warmth and genuine hospitality
  
• Build relationships with regulars; know their names, their go-tos, and their preferences
  
• Handle guest feedback and service recovery with confidence, care, and a good attitude
  
• Embody the Ryebird spirit: laid-back professionalism, approachable energy, no pretension
  

Operations & Compliance

• Assist with inventory management, ordering, and cost control in collaboration with management
  
• Maintain compliance with all state alcohol service laws and responsible beverage service standards
  
• Communicate seamlessly with kitchen, FOH, and events staff
  
• Support private dining and Reserve Room events as needed
  

What We re Looking For

• 1 5 years of bartending experience, with at least 1 2 years in a lead, senior, or supervisory capacity
  
• Strong cocktail knowledge classics, modern craft, seasonal builds with a genuine passion for the craft
  
• Experience in a full-service, upscale-casual or neighborhood restaurant environment
  
• Ability to lead with calm confidence during high-volume service without losing the hospitality
  
• Excellent communication and people skills you re a natural with guests AND teammates
  
• Food and beverage pairing knowledge; familiarity with New American cuisine a plus
  
• ServSafe or TIPS certification preferred (or willingness to obtain)
  
• Flexible availability: evenings, weekends, and holidays are part of the gig
  
• A positive, team-first attitude and a genuine love for what you do
  

Ryebird is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.