Lead Bartender

Lead Bartender

The Lead Bartender is responsible for overseeing bar operations and bartending staff during events. This role serves as the operational leader of assigned bar locations and is accountable for staff direction, responsible alcohol service compliance, inventory management, cash accountability, and guest satisfaction.

The Lead Bartender is expected to manage bar operations and supervise bartending staff rather than routinely serving guests behind the bar. The Lead may provide direct bartending support during periods of high guest demand, staffing shortages, or when directed by venue leadership.

Essential Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee the daily operation of assigned bar locations.
• Assign bartenders and support staff to stations based on operational needs.
• Provide leadership, coaching, and ongoing performance feedback.
• Train team members on company policies, beverage standards, guest service expectations, and responsible alcohol service requirements.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, and professionalism among bar staff.
• Serve as the first point of escalation for operational and employee concerns.
• Ensure bars are properly stocked, organized, and prepared before guest arrival.
• Monitor service speed, beverage quality, and operational efficiency throughout events.
• Coordinate staffing adjustments based on guest demand and event activity.
• Ensure all beverages are prepared and served according to established recipes and standards.
• Communicate operational issues and product shortages to management.
• Support event execution and operational objectives established by Food & Beverage leadership.
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, local, and venue alcohol regulations.
• Monitor responsible beverage service practices.
• Verify identification procedures are consistently followed.
• Address intoxication concerns and service issues according to company policy.
• Promote a safe environment for guests and team members.
• Ensure exceptional guest service standards are maintained.
• Resolve guest concerns quickly and professionally.
• Support team members in addressing guest complaints and service recovery situations.
• Monitor guest satisfaction and service quality throughout events.
• Assist with inventory counts, product monitoring, and replenishment activities.
• Verify proper cash handling and POS procedures are followed.
• Support opening and closing cash reconciliation processes.
• Assist with product usage tracking and reporting.
• Maintain accountability for assigned operational areas.
• Ensure bar areas remain clean, organized, and compliant with sanitation standards.
• Promote workplace safety and report safety concerns immediately.
• Monitor compliance with company standards, policies, and procedures.
• Ensure employees maintain proper appearance, uniforms, and professional conduct.
• Provide direct bartending support during peak business periods when necessary.
• Assist with beverage operations throughout the venue as directed.
• Perform other duties assigned by management.

Qualifications

• Minimum one (1) year of bartending experience required.
• Previous lead or supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of responsible alcohol service practices.
• Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification required or ability to obtain.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience operating POS systems and handling cash transactions.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced event environment.
• Strong guest service and conflict-resolution skills.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Frequent reaching, bending, twisting, and repetitive motions.
• Ability to work in a high-volume, fast-paced event environment.

Additional Information

This is a part-time, event-based position located at Pechanga Arena San Diego. Applicants must be available to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and other event-related schedules.

Legends Global is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer and encourages Women, Minorities, Individuals with Disabilities, and Protected Veterans to apply.