Popoca Bartender

Benefits: Family meal, Discounted meals, Flexible schedule

Popoca, a Salvadoran restaurant in Old Oakland is looking for a Bartender to lead the restaurant towards success in being a go-to spot for lively cocktails and authentic Salvadoran cuisine in Oakland. Popoca aims to create a safe space and be actively involved in the Oakland community. The Bartender will be responsible for leading the guest experience at the bar, crafting cocktails, educating guests on Salvadoran culture & cuisine, as well as building relationships with the local community. Popoca is determined to create an ethical, inclusive, and transparent environment for its team that is built on the values of communication, learning, growth, quality, and giving back to the community.

Qualities Desired: 

Customer Service Excellence:

• Friendly and welcoming demeanor.
• Ability to anticipate and fulfill guests' needs.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills.
• Patience and attentiveness to ensure guest satisfaction.
• Ability to handle difficult situations calmly and professionally.

Teamwork and Collaboration:

• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Excellent communication skills to coordinate with kitchen and bar staff.
• Willingness to assist colleagues during peak times or when needed.
• Positive attitude and willingness to contribute to a positive work environment.

Adaptability and Flexibility:

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Willingness to adjust to changing schedules and work demands.
• Capacity to handle multiple tasks and prioritize effectively.
• Quick thinking and problem-solving skills to resolve issues on the spot.

Attention to Detail:

• Accuracy in taking orders and delivering them correctly.
• Ability to remember and accommodate specific guest requests.
• Observant and proactive in identifying and addressing guest needs.
• Commitment to maintaining a clean and organized work area.

Creativity & Menu Development: 

• Opportunity to contribute to menu development by creating new cocktails in conjunction with Bar Lead
• Participation in tastings and menu development sessions with leadership team
• Genuine curiosity and interest in People and Salvadoran culture/cuisine
• Seeking to Build & Grow Community
• Fluent or conversational Spanish is desired but not required

Qualifications: 

Prior Experience:

• Previous experience as a bartender or in the hospitality industry is preferred.
• Familiarity with restaurant operations and customer service protocols.
• Collaborative work ethic
• Enthusiasm for Building something new from the ground up

Food and Menu Knowledge:

•  Familiarity with different cuisines, ingredients, and cooking methods.
•  Understanding of menu items, including specials and dietary considerations.
•  Ability to make recommendations and describe menu items accurately.
• Knowledge of basic food and beverage terminology and procedures.
• Strong knowledge of various alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including cocktails, spirits, wines, beers, and specialty drinks
• Knowledge of proper techniques for shaking, stirring, muddling, and layering drinks
• Knowledge of Wines and NA Beverages

Communication Skills:

• Excellent verbal communication skills to interact with guests and colleagues.
• Active listening skills to understand guest preferences and requests.
• Proficiency in a second language (if applicable) can be advantageous.

Physical Stamina:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Capacity to carry trays, boxes, products, and lift moderately heavy objects.
• Stamina to work during peak hours and handle busy shifts.

POS and Computer Skills:

• Basic knowledge of Point of Sale (POS) systems and order entry processes.
• Ability to operate handheld devices or tablets for order-taking purposes.
• Familiarity with basic computer applications for billing and payment processing.

Responsibilities:

Greeting and Seating Guests:

•  Warmly welcome guests upon arrival at the bar.
•  Maintain a friendly and professional demeanor throughout the interaction.

Taking and Processing Orders:

•  Accurately record guests' food and beverage orders.
•  Transmit orders to the kitchen and ensure all specifications are clear.
•  Collaborate with kitchen staff to ensure timely order preparation.

Food and Beverage Service:

•  T.I.P. certified
•  Food handler certification
•  Serve food and beverages to guests in a timely and professional manner.
•  Ensure proper presentation and garnishing of dishes.
•  Monitor guest satisfaction and promptly address any concerns or requests.

Upselling and Promotions:

•  Effectively promote and upsell menu items, specials, and promotions.
•  Provide detailed descriptions and recommendations to enhance the dining experience.
•  Utilize suggestive selling techniques to increase sales.

Payment Handling:

•  Present bills to guests accurately and efficiently.
•  Process various payment methods, including cash, credit cards, or digital payments.
•  Provide change, receipts, or credit card slips as required.

Knowledge of Special Diets and Allergies:

•  Familiarize oneself with common dietary restrictions and allergies.
•  Make appropriate recommendations and communicate with kitchen staff to accommodate specific dietary needs.

Knowledge of Alcoholic Beverages (T.I.P.S. Certification):

•  Comply with legal age requirements and responsible alcohol service guidelines.
•  Possess knowledge of different types of alcoholic beverages, their origins, and flavor profiles.
•  Verify identification and refuse service to underage or intoxicated individuals.

Customer Relations:

•  Build positive relationships with guests and provide personalized service.
•  Address guest inquiries, concerns, or complaints promptly and professionally.
•  Ensure overall guest satisfaction and aim for positive reviews and repeat business.

Cleanliness and Hygiene Practices:

•  Adhere to proper hygiene and sanitation practices, including handwashing, glove usage, and uniform cleanliness.
•  Follow health and safety regulations and maintain a safe work environment.

Bar Operations: 

• Crafting and serving alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages
• Accurately and efficiently following cocktail recipes or guests preferences maintaining proper portion control
• Mindfulness of guests’ alcoholic consumption and knowledge of local laws and regulations regarding alcoholic beverages, age restrictions, etc.
• Ensuring quality and consistency of drinks
• Ensuring guest satisfaction
• Assist in conducting daily inventory counts and pars
• Maintaining clean and organized bar area