Catering and Event Bartender with Catering by Michaels

Join Our Event Bar Team

At Catering by Michaels we believe an event is more than food on a plate. The bar is an important part of the guest experience and a great bartender does more than pour a drink. They create a welcoming atmosphere provide knowledgeable service and help keep the event running smoothly.

Founded in 1980 Catering by Michaels is a full-service catering and events company based in Morton Grove Illinois. We produce events throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs ranging from weddings and galas to corporate events festivals private parties and everything in between.

We are looking for professional energetic and hospitality-driven Event Bartenders who take pride in their work understand the importance of responsible beverage service and recognize that exceptional service comes down to the details.

About Catering by Michaels

For more than four decades we have built our reputation as one of Chicagos leading catering and events companies through quality creativity and exceptional service.

• Scratch kitchen with a commitment to culinary excellence
• Sustainability leader certified by both Green Restaurant and Green Seal
• Experience executing major events including Lollapalooza the NFL Draft the Black Creativity Gala and the University of Chicago Alumni Weekend
• Preferred caterer at many of Chicagos most iconic venues
• Full-service catering and event production throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs

We are passionate about creating experiences that exceed expectations and leave a lasting impact.

Why This Role Matters

Our Event Bartenders are often at the center of the guest experience. You are responsible for creating a welcoming bar environment while providing efficient professional and responsible beverage service.

Event bartending is different from working behind a restaurant bar. Our bartenders work in ballrooms private homes museums corporate venues outdoor events and some of Chicagos most iconic locations. Every event is different. You must be comfortable adapting to the venue guest expectations beverage menu equipment and event timeline while maintaining Catering by Michaels standards.

Our bartenders are also part of the overall event service team. This means being comfortable stepping away from the bar when needed to assist with guest service serving setup breakdown and other event responsibilities. We are looking for team members who understand that everyones contribution matters to the success of the event.

Your Role

• Set up and break down bar areas by unloading product and rentals from truck and set up according to Catering by Michaels 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
• Maintain a clean organized and properly stocked bar throughout the event
• Demonstrate knowledge of beer wine spirits cocktails and other beverage offerings
• Monitor guest consumption and follow all 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 service serving responsibilities and breakdown as needed
• Maintain control of bar inventory equipment glassware and supplies
• Follow all company policies food safety requirements sanitation standards and responsible alcohol service procedures
• Represent Catering by Michaels with professionalism courtesy and hospitality at all times

Qualifications

• Must be at least 21 years old
• Previous bartending catering restaurant or hospitality experience preferred
• 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 is required. Catering by Michaels events take place throughout Chicago the surrounding suburbs and other areas of Illinois. Many event locations are not accessible by CTA alone
• Flexible availability including evenings weekends and holidays
• Spanish language skills are a plus. If you speak Spanish you will be working alongside team members who do as well

Physical Requirements

This is an active physically demanding position. Candidates must be comfortable with the following:

• Standing and remaining active for extended periods during events
• Lifting and carrying bar equipment cases supplies and other items weighing up to 50 pounds
• Setting up and breaking down bar areas and event equipment
• Bending reaching carrying and moving throughout event spaces
• Working in a variety of environments including indoor and outdoor venues

Scheduling

This is a part-time event-based position with flexible scheduling.

Available shifts are communicated through our scheduling platform and team members can accept or decline events based on their availability. You will work as a W-2 employee at events throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs.

Most events take place during evenings weekends and holidays so availability during these times is essential.

Why Work With Catering by Michaels

We have been doing this since 1980 because we care about doing things the right way. Our clients trust us with some of their most important moments and our bartenders play an important role in creating the atmosphere and experience our clients expect.

You will have the opportunity to work at weddings corporate events galas private celebrations and some of Chicagos most exciting events and venues while building your hospitality experience.

If you know your way around a bar enjoy working with people adapt well to different environments and take pride in providing exceptional service we want to meet you.

Join Catering by Michaels and help us create events that leave a lasting impression.