Bar & Operations Manager

Location: Bunker at The Duncan — 1515 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60607

Schedule: Full-time (40+ hours per week, requiring daytime, night, and weekend availability)

Compensation:

• $32.00 – $34/hr for administrative/management shifts (approx. 12 hours/week)
• $17.00/hr + tips for floor bartending shifts

About the Role

Bunker (part of Heritage Hospitality) is an unpretentious neighborhood gem and go-to event spot located just blocks from the United Center. Known for our smash burgers, hyper-local Chicago tap list, and vibrant outdoor patio, we provide a high-energy yet relaxed experience for neighborhood locals and sports fans alike. Because we cater heavily to Chicago sports fans and event attendees, a candidate who is passionate about and knowledgeable in sports will thrive in our culture and connect easily with our regulars.

We are seeking a dedicated, hands-on Bar & Operations Manager to take full operational ownership of Bunker. Because this is a dedicated onsite role, you will act as a true leader for the entire space - overseeing the bar program, managing front-of-house administrative operations, and maintaining active quality control over our kitchen line. This is a hybrid role: you will execute business-management duties while regularly jumping behind the bar to drive service standards and connect with our guests.

Key Responsibilities

Management & Operations:

• Manage day-to-day operations and serve as the primary point of contact for Bunker.

• Work closely and collaboratively with the owner and other business managers across the Heritage Hospitality group.

• Own the hiring, onboarding, training, and performance management of front-of-house and patio staff.

• Oversee weekly scheduling, payroll approval, and routine financial reporting.

• Maintain the Square POS system backend, ensuring accurate pricing, menu consistency, and seamless execution of the patio QR ordering systems.

• Collaborate on events, game-day promotions, marketing ideas, and social media content to drive neighborhood engagement.

Bar Program & Service:

• Lead menu development, utilizing proper cocktail techniques to keep seasonal and staple offerings fresh, high-quality, and cost-effective.

• Oversee all bar ordering, monthly inventory tracking, and relationship management with distributors and brand representatives.

• Host and conduct periodic cocktail classes for guests and/or staff.

• Prepare and serve our menu of classic cocktails, local craft beers, wine, and food options in accordance with company recipes and hospitality standards.

• Manage floor flow, guest interactions, and handle cash/card transactions accurately through Square POS.

• Maintain a pristine, organized, and legally compliant bar area (including strict ID verification and safe alcohol service).

Kitchen Coordination & Quality Control:

• Maintain a hands-on presence on the floor, actively monitoring the kitchen line during peak shifts to ensure food quality, presentation, and ticket times meet company standards.

• Serve as the primary liaison between the bar/floor staff and the kitchen team to ensure seamless communication, order accuracy, and smooth service flow.

• Conduct regular walkthroughs of back-of-house storage and prep areas to assist in monitoring cleanliness, health department compliance, and inventory waste control.

• Work closely with the kitchen team to coordinate food prep levels and anticipate high volume ahead of major United Center games and event nights.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum 3 years of experience strictly as a Bar Manager in a fast-paced environment (lead bartender experience alone is not sufficient).

• Cultural Fit: A strong knowledge of and passion for sports is a significant plus, as it helps tailor the guest experience to our game-day demographic.

• Cross-Functional Skills: Comfort and familiarity with back-of-house operations, food safety standards, or expediting food orders is highly preferred.

• Knowledge: Deep understanding of basic and advanced cocktail techniques, spirit categories, local beer styles, menu development, and comprehensive bar ordering.

• Certifications: Must possess valid Illinois BASSET and Food Handler certifications (Management level preferred).

• Age: Must be 21 years of age or older.

• Physical: Ability to stand for extended periods, reach, bend, and comfortably lift/move up to 55 lbs (keg moving will be required).

• Traits: Exceptional communication skills, strict punctuality, and a calm, reliable demeanor under the high-pressure rush of United Center event nights.

• Language: Must be fluent in English; Spanish speaking skills are a major plus.

Perks & Benefits

• 30% employee discount at all Heritage Hospitality and bike shop properties.

• Access to The Duncan’s on-site full gym, indoor pool, and basketball court.

• Daily shift meal.

• Regular staff appreciation parties.

• Opportunity to grow with one of Chicago’s most forward-thinking independent hospitality groups.