Bartender

Bartender

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is seeking a Bartender to assist in the set-up, tear down, maintenance and operation of the bar for public and private events occurring during both daytime and evening hours. The ideal candidate demonstrates knowledge of alcoholic and non-alcoholic mixed drinks, excellent communication skills, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment. This position prepares and serves alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks in accordance with standard recipes and state law. This position often requires working weekends, late evenings and some holidays. Bartenders work directly with the public as a positive representative of Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium. This position reports directly to the Assistant Manager.

Duties and Responsibilities (include but not limited to):

• Follow Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium policies and standards.
• Serve as a positive representative of Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium (professional and friendly attitude to guests).
• Handle customer or guest inquiries and provide excellent customer service.
• Obtain all necessary information prior to the event including event information sheet and liquor inventory sheet.
• Obtain and maintain all necessary equipment and supplies for the event.
• Assist external vendors upon their arrival, as all vendors need a Zoo employee escort, and assist with location and logistical needs.
• Escorting guests and vendors on a golf cart or other Zoo vehicle.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bar area.
• Ensure bar arrangements are set up properly and ready to serve (which may vary from 15-30 minutes prior to event start time).
• Properly follow food handling and beverage procedures according to Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium policies and procedures and state laws; ensure proper handling and storage of liquor, garnishes, and mixers.
• Ensure proper set-up, tear down, and storage of equipment/supplies.
• Operate cash register, collect payment, and make change.
• Make sure drink tickets are accounted for and turned in at the end of the event to the Event Captain.
• Monitor under-age drinking, over-indulgent drinking, damage of the facilities, etc.
• Utilize and complete all appropriate paperwork.
• Prepare and serve a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic mixed drinks according to standard recipes or customer requests.
• Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of drink recipes including classic cocktails, modern drinks, and signature house specials.
• Fill in where necessary to fulfil any duties that are required to make the event successful including, but not limited to, setting up and tearing down tables, chairs, signage, tents, and any other event needs.
• Communicate comments, ideas, and concerns with management.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Strong customer service skills and ability to engage with patrons.
• Ability to multitask and handle a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of proper drink garnishing and presentation techniques is helpful but not required.
• Familiarity with mixing techniques including shaking, stirring, muddling, and layering.
• Ability to manage inventory and stock drinks efficiently.
• Extensive knowledge of drink recipes, spirits, and cocktail preparations techniques.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Positive attitude.
• Ability to organize, prioritize, and memorize.
• General knowledge of food and beverage service procedures.
• Experience in various event operations for groups ranging in size from 1 – 5,000 people.
• Versatility, flexibility and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities.
• Ability to deal effectively with a diversity of individuals at all organizational levels.
• Good judgment with the ability to make timely and sound decisions.
• Ability to follow directions and work well with team members.
• Basic math skills and experience in operating and reading computerized cash registers and tape readouts.
• Knowledge of zoo administrative practices with a willingness to learn other areas

Qualifications:

• Valid state driver's license.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience as a bartender or in a similar role is helpful but not required.
• Minimum age of 19 years old.
• Willing to obtain TIPS certification within the first three months of employment.

Training is provided onsite at the Zoo, and is paid at the employee's regular hourly rate. The Zoo will cover the certification fee for the employee's initial certification attempt. Any additional attempts required to obtain certification will be at the employee's expense. Failure to demonstrate or obtain the required certification within the specified timeframe is a violation of health code requirements and will result in termination.

Working Conditions and Physical Effort:

• Will sometimes work extended/odd hours including weekends, holidays, and night programs.
• The employee is frequently required to walk and/or stand for up to 8 hours.
• Must be able to walk long distances across multiple venues and work areas. Will assist in moving products between multiple areas within the Zoo.
• Work in various weather conditions, as well as both indoor event room and outdoor exotic animal/zoo environments.
• Must be able to sit, kneel, bend, twist, reach above head and climb.
• Will lift, push, pull, and/or move up to 50 pounds and occasionally up to 75 pounds using safe and proper lifting methods.

Candidates are required to pass a pre-employment background check, drug test, and possess a valid driver's license with a good history.

Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer as defined by the EEOC.