Lead Barback and assistant maintenance manager

• Job Reference: 00000191-1
• Date Posted: 16 June 2026
• Hiring Company: The River Kitchen and bar
• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Salary: $30,000 to $40,000
• Bonus/Benefits: Tips and Bonuses
• Job Category: Hospitality & Tourism
• Job Type: Full Time
  
  

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Job Description

Position Summary

The Lead Barback is responsible for supporting bartenders while overseeing barback operations to ensure the bar remains fully stocked, clean, organized, and operating efficiently during service. This role serves as a leader for the barback team and helps maintain high standards of service and execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise barbacks during shifts.
• Ensure all bars are fully stocked with liquor, beer, wine, mixers, garnishes, ice, glassware, and supplies.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of all bar stations, storage areas, coolers, and service wells.
• Coordinate stocking priorities with bartenders and managers throughout service.
• Train new barbacks on company procedures and standards.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate shortages to management.
• Assist with receiving deliveries and organizing inventory.
• Change kegs, restock coolers, and replenish supplies during service.
• Ensure proper rotation and storage of products.
• Support bartenders during high-volume periods.
• Enforce cleanliness, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Perform routine repairs and maintenance throughout the restaurant, bar, kitchen, and outdoor areas.
• Assist with plumbing, electrical, HVAC, lighting, painting, and carpentry projects.
• Conduct daily facility inspections and identify maintenance needs.
• Respond promptly to maintenance requests from managers and staff.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of maintenance equipment, tools, and storage areas.
• Assist with preventative maintenance schedules for kitchen and bar equipment.
• Coordinate with outside contractors when necessary.
• Ensure all work is completed in compliance with safety regulations and company standards.
• Assist with seasonal projects, facility upgrades, and emergency repairs.
  
  

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of barback experience required; leadership experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of bar operations and beverage products.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to lift and move kegs, cases of beer, and other heavy products (up to 75 pounds).
• Nights, weekends, and holiday availability required.