Bar Lead | Hospitality/Hostel Bar

Bar Lead at HI USA New York City Hostel

Join Our Team as a Bar Lead at HI USA New York City Hostel! As a Bar Lead, you'll play a key role in supporting daily bar operations, special programming, and maintaining a clean, safe, and organized service area. Our bar serves beer and wine, with cocktails made using wine-based spirits rather than traditional liquor. In addition to bartending, you'll support the Bar Manager with inventory, ordering, scheduling, and day-to-day team needs, while providing guidance and mentorship to the bar team. You'll also help shape the overall energy of the space by actively contributing to a welcoming and engaging bar atmosphere. By staying hands-on during service, you'll help ensure smooth operations, strong teamwork, and a positive guest experience.

We're seeking someone who brings a genuine enthusiasm for engaging with travelers and creating a welcoming atmosphere. The ideal candidate has a strong understanding of bar operations or team leadership, is comfortable supporting scheduling and other day-to-day operational needs, and is willing to step in wherever needed in a fast-paced environment.

Position Details:

Pay: $20-23 per hour + tips

Type: Full Time

Shifts: Evening and weekend availability required

Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, disability, vacation, sick leave, 403b with company match, and more (New Hire waiting periods apply).

Perks:

- Free stays at other HI USA hostels (subject to availability)

- On-the-job training

- Opportunities for growth within HI USA

- Friendly and inclusive work environment

- Discounts on hundreds of brands

Responsibilities:

• Support the F&B Manager with inventory, including monitoring stock levels, placing orders, and ensuring adequate supplies for daily operations
• Lead the overall energy and guest experience of the space by actively shaping and maintaining the bar's vibe
• Create and manage bartending team schedules to support operational needs
• Provide guidance and day-to-day support to bartending staff to ensure consistent service and adherence to standards
• Provide friendly, efficient bar service in a guest-focused environment
• Prepare and serve menu beverages using established recipes and standards to maintain consistency and quality.
• Check valid identification and ensure all alcohol service meets legal requirements and company guidelines.
• Operate the point-of-sale (POS) systems accurately and efficiently, including handling payments, and closing out tabs in accordance with cash handling procedures.
• Create welcoming interactions with travelers and local guests
• Support bar setup, restocking, and breakdown as needed
• Assist with special programming such as live music, themed nights, and seasonal events
• Occasionally support and cover banquet events as needed
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized bar area in accordance with health and safety standards

Skills/Qualifications:

• 2+ years of bartending, event, or hospitality service experience preferred
• Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
• Comfortable engaging with an international guest community
• Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented
• Able to work in a fast-paced service environment
• Evening, weekend, and holiday availability required
• ServSafe or Food Handler's Certificate helpful but not required

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and move throughout the bar area for extended periods of time
• Frequent use of hands and arms to prepare and serve beverages, operate equipment, and handle transactions
• Ability to lift and carry items such as beverage cases and supplies (up to 30 pounds)
• Ability to reach, bend, and stoop in a fast-paced, active work environment
• Ability to communicate clearly with guests and team members in a moderate to loud environment
• Visual ability to read menus, labels, screens, and point-of-sale systems

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

We Make a Difference!

At HI USA, we celebrate diversity and welcome individuals of all backgrounds. As a nonprofit organization, we help people, especially the young, travel on a budget to foster a greater understanding of the world and its people through affordable travel opportunities. If you're passionate about hospitality and creating memorable experiences, apply today to join our team.

Hostelling International USA (HI USA)