BAR Manager

Collaboraction Facility and Bar Manager Collaboraction Theatre Company of Chicago Chicago, Illinois Compensation: $22.00 - $27.00 per hour, commensurate with experience Employment Status: Part-Time or Full-Time, Non-Exempt Position Overview Collaboraction Theatre Company of Chicago, a 30 year old Emmy-award winning non-profit theatre for social change, is seeking a highly responsible, service-oriented, and detail-focused Facility and Bar Manager to support the daily operation of its theatre facility and front-of-house beverage service. This position is essential to maintaining a safe, welcoming, and well-managed environment for audiences, artists, staff, community partners, and rental clients. The Facility and Bar Manager serves as a key operational team member whose work contributes directly to the organization’s mission by ensuring that the physical space is well maintained, accessible, and prepared for performances, public programs, and special events. In addition, this role oversees bar operations in a manner consistent with strong hospitality standards, sound financial practices, and all applicable legal requirements. The Facility Manager will also oversee the space calendar, booking, and rentals, The ideal candidate will bring a professional approach to venue management, a commitment to public service, and an appreciation for the role that arts and culture play in community engagement. Primary Responsibilities Facility Operations Collaboraction has a 99 seat black box theatre and 49 seat lounge/cabaret with bar and liquor license in the Kimball Arts Center (1757 N. Kimball Ave.) of Humboldt Park called The House of Belonging. The venue has a high quality light and sound system and is an artistic and community space. The Facility and Bar Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day readiness and presentation of the theatre facility. This includes opening and closing the building for performances, rehearsals, rentals, and other events; monitoring the condition and cleanliness of audience-facing and staff spaces; and ensuring that the venue remains orderly, functional, and welcoming at all times. This individual will coordinate routine maintenance needs, address minor operational issues, and communicate larger repair or building concerns to leadership, vendors, or other appropriate parties. The role also includes maintaining inventories of facility supplies, janitorial materials, restroom stock, and other operational necessities. The Facility and Bar Manager helps ensure that the venue meets safety, cleanliness, occupancy, and compliance expectations appropriate to a nonprofit arts organization serving the public. Bar Management and Beverage Service The Facility and Bar Manager oversees bar service during performances, events, and rentals, ensuring efficient and professional operation before, during, and after each engagement. Responsibilities include preparing and maintaining the bar area, managing beverage and supply inventory, tracking stock usage, supporting purchasing and reordering, and ensuring the cleanliness and appearance of the service space. The role also includes handling point-of-sale transactions, reconciling sales activity, and maintaining accurate end-of-shift financial records. The successful candidate will ensure that all alcohol service is conducted in accordance with city and state regulations and with a strong commitment to responsible beverage service. When applicable, the Facility and Bar Manager may train, supervise, and coordinate bar staff or volunteers. Front-of-House and Event Support In collaboration with staff, artists, and event personnel, the Facility and Bar Manager supports smooth front-of-house operations and contributes to a positive guest experience. This includes assisting with event setup and breakdown, helping manage audience flow, responding professionally to patron concerns, and serving as an on-site contact for operational issues that arise during public events. As a representative of the organization, the Facility and Bar Manager is expected to interact with patrons, partners, and colleagues in a courteous, inclusive, and professional manner that reflects the values of Collaboraction Theatre Company of Chicago. Qualifications Candidates should possess a high school diploma or equivalent, along with at least two years of relevant experience in facility operations, bar management, hospitality, venue support, or a related field. Experience in a nonprofit, theatre, arts, or community-based setting is strongly preferred. The successful candidate will demonstrate sound organizational ability, strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills, and the capacity to manage multiple responsibilities in a live-event environment. Familiarity with cash handling, inventory management, point-of-sale systems, and supervisory responsibilities is desirable. Candidates should also have knowledge of or willingness to obtain required alcohol service certification, including BASSET certification if applicable. This position requires the ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays, based on production and event needs. Candidates must also be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 pounds as necessary for routine facility and event operations. Organizational Fit Collaboraction Theatre Company of Chicago seeks candidates who value collaboration, accountability, and community-centered service. The ideal applicant will understand the importance of maintaining a welcoming cultural space and will take pride in supporting an organization whose mission is rooted in artistic engagement, public dialogue, and meaningful connection with diverse audiences. Compensation This position pays $22.00 per hour and is classified as non-exempt. Schedule and weekly hours may vary depending on performance calendars, rentals, and organizational programming. Equal Employment Opportunity Collaboraction Theatre Company of Chicago is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and respectful workplace. The organization encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities and seeks to build a team that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. #J-18808-Ljbffr