Lead Bartender

Here is a job description tailored for a Lead Bartender at Marina Bar & Grill at Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort. It builds upon the current bartender position while adding leadership, training, and operational responsibilities appropriate for a lead role.

Why Work at Marina Bar & Grill?

Where else can you lead a team while overlooking beautiful Choctawhatchee Bay? At Marina Bar & Grill, you'll enjoy spectacular waterfront views, live entertainment, boating activity, breathtaking sunsets, and a fun, energetic atmosphere. Every shift offers the opportunity to create memorable guest experiences while working in one of the Emerald Coast's most scenic destinations.

Position Summary

The Lead Bartender is responsible for providing exceptional beverage service while leading the daily operations of the bar. This position serves as the senior bartender on duty, ensuring consistent service standards, mentoring bartenders and barbacks, maintaining inventory and bar organization, and supporting management in delivering an outstanding guest experience. The Lead Bartender leads by example through professionalism, teamwork, product knowledge, and a passion for hospitality.

Essential Responsibilities

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and motivate bartenders and barbacks during each shift.
• Provide coaching, training, and ongoing development for new and existing team members.
• Ensure all beverage recipes and presentation standards are followed consistently.
• Assist management with scheduling recommendations, shift assignments, and performance feedback.
• Promote teamwork and maintain a positive, professional work environment.
• Serve as the point person for bar operations in the absence of management.

Guest Experience

• Deliver friendly, attentive, and personalized service to every guest.
• Build relationships with repeat guests and create memorable experiences.
• Handle guest concerns professionally and resolve issues promptly.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming bar environment.

Bar Operations

• Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to company recipes and standards.
• Monitor bar setup, cleanliness, stocking levels, and closing procedures.
• Assist with ordering liquor, beer, wine, mixers, and bar supplies.
• Conduct inventory counts and help minimize waste and product loss.
• Ensure proper rotation and storage of all products.
• Maintain attractive displays and presentation of bottles, glassware, and garnishes.
• Ensure compliance with Florida alcohol service laws and responsible beverage service policies.
• Support food service as needed.

Financial & Operational Excellence

• Accurately process cash, credit card, and room charge transactions.
• Promote premium beverages, featured cocktails, wine selections, and specialty offerings to maximize sales.
• Monitor pour accuracy and portion control.
• Assist management in controlling beverage costs and reducing waste.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Minimum of 2 years of bartending experience in a high-volume restaurant, marina, resort, or hospitality environment.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Extensive knowledge of beer, wine, spirits, classic cocktails, and current beverage trends.
• Strong communication, leadership, and guest service skills.
• Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure.
• Basic computer and POS system experience.
• Florida Responsible Vendor certification (or ability to obtain).

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, often 8 hours or more.
• Frequently bend, reach, twist, stoop, and lift throughout the shift.
• Lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly and up to 100 pounds with assistance.
• Work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, humidity, wind, and rain.
• Maintain manual dexterity for preparing beverages and operating bar equipment.
• Work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as business demands.

What Makes You Successful

• Passion for hospitality and creating exceptional guest experiences.
• Positive attitude with strong leadership skills.
• Ability to coach and inspire others.
• Strong attention to detail and organization.
• High standards of cleanliness and professionalism.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced waterfront restaurant environment.
• Commitment to teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Why Join Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort?

• Work in one of Florida's premier destination resorts.
• Beautiful waterfront work environment overlooking the marina.
• Competitive compensation plus gratuities.
• Resort-wide employee discounts.
• Health, dental, vision, and retirement benefits for eligible employees.
• Paid time off and holiday benefits.
• Career growth opportunities throughout Sandestin Golf & Beach Resort.
• Employee appreciation events and a supportive team culture.
• EOE M/D/F/V