Bartender - The Markham Hotel

Bartender

The Bartender is responsible for preparing and serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to customers in a friendly and efficient manner. This role involves maintaining the bar area, providing excellent customer service, ensuring compliance with safety and legal regulations, and creating a welcoming environment for guests.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Beverage Preparation and Service:

• Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks according to standard recipes and guest preferences.
• Mix, garnish, and serve beverages quickly and efficiently, ensuring consistency in taste and presentation.
• Offer suggestions to customers on drinks based on preferences and current menu offerings.
• Ensure that all beverages are served in the appropriate glassware and garnished correctly.

2. Customer Service:

• Greet and interact with customers in a friendly and professional manner.
• Take drink orders from customers at the bar or through waitstaff and provide attentive service throughout their visit.
• Engage with customers, make recommendations, and create a welcoming atmosphere.
• Handle guest complaints or concerns promptly and professionally.

3. Cash Handling and POS Operation:

• Accurately process transactions using the point-of-sale (POS) system, including cash, credit cards, and other forms of payment.
• Ensure all charges are correctly entered into the system, and provide customers with accurate receipts.
• Maintain a clean and organized cash register and ensure all tips are reported according to company policies.

4. Bar Maintenance and Organization:

• Keep the bar area clean, stocked, and organized, including countertops, shelves, and storage areas.
• Replenish stock and supplies as needed, including alcohol, mixers, garnishes, and glassware.
• Clean bar equipment, glassware, and utensils, ensuring everything is sanitized and ready for use.
• Empty trash and dispose of waste in accordance with health and safety regulations.

5. Compliance and Safety:

• Ensure all alcohol service is in compliance with legal drinking age laws and company policies.
• Monitor and manage intoxicated customers, refusing service when necessary, and ensuring that no illegal or unsafe behavior occurs.
• Maintain knowledge of alcohol laws and ensure proper identification is checked when serving alcohol.
• Follow all health and safety guidelines to ensure the safety of both customers and staff.

6. Inventory Control:

• Monitor inventory levels for liquor, beer, wine, and other bar supplies.
• Assist in tracking stock and notifying the bar manager or supervisor when supplies need to be reordered.
• Ensure proper storage of alcohol and perishable items.

7. Team Collaboration:

• Work closely with waitstaff, kitchen staff, and management to ensure smooth operations and efficient service.
• Communicate clearly with team members to ensure orders are accurately delivered and guest needs are met.
• Assist in training new bartenders or barbacks as needed.

8. Event Support:

• Assist in setting up and preparing for private events, happy hours, or special promotions.
• Serve drinks at special events, ensuring quick and efficient service in a high-volume setting.

Requirements:

Education:

• High school diploma or equivalent (required).
• Certification in alcohol service (e.g., ServeSafe Alcohol) may be required depending on location.

Experience:

• Previous bartending experience in a bar, restaurant, or hospitality setting (required).
• Experience in customer service and handling cash transactions.

Skills:

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with customers and coworkers.
• Knowledge of drink recipes, mixing techniques, and bar equipment.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and a focus on maintaining cleanliness and organization.
• Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure.

Certifications:

• Alcohol Service Certification (required depending on location).
• Food Safety and Sanitation certification may be required in some regions.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for long periods and move around the bar area.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy items, such as bottles, kegs, or boxes, up to 25 pounds.
• Ability to handle a fast-paced, sometimes noisy work environment.

Work Environment:

• Bartenders typically work in bars, restaurants, clubs, or event venues.
• Shifts may include evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on the establishment's hours of operation.
• The position may involve working in a loud, crowded, and high-energy environment.

Compensation:

• Competitive hourly wage, with tips based on service.

The Bartender is a key role in ensuring customers enjoy their experience, from crafting drinks to creating a social and lively atmosphere. Successful candidates should have strong communication skills, a passion for customer service, and the ability to work well under pressure while maintaining a high standard of work.