Bartender

The Bartender is responsible for preparing and serving cocktails and beverages to guests of the restaurant and pool, assisting with menu selections, and delivering food with the highest level of customer service. This role ensures the cleanliness and organization of the bar and front-of-house areas. The Bartender is also responsible for completing all assigned side work and maintaining clear, professional communication with guests, team members, and management to consistently uphold brand standards.

Responsibilities and Duties

• Shows up for work on time, in uniform, with all necessary tools (pens, wine opener, pad).
• Maintains a safe and sanitary work environment.

• Accurately describes menu items, property history, specialty drinks, and wine for complete guest satisfaction.
• Describes all dishes accurately including allergies and dietary restrictions.
• Monitors and observes guests’ dining experience, ensuring they are satisfied with food and service.
• Communicates property policies to guests (e.g. dogs, 21 pool, etc)
• Accommodates special requests and checks with the kitchen to ensure feasibility.
• Knows cocktail recipes and how to build cocktails.
• Has knowledge of spirits and flavor profiles.
• Creates cocktails in a timely manner and works well under pressure.
• Runs food as needed, especially for large parties and during peak hours.
• Serves menu items promptly and courteously, following established service standards.
• Maintains table appearance throughout the meal.
• Removes used tableware between courses and provides tableware for the next course in advance of delivery.
• Notes timing of meal progression and notifies kitchen and/or management.
• Up-sells menu items and specials to maximize food and beverage revenue.
• Rings in food and drinks accurately into POS.
• Handles money efficiently and accurately.
• Settles guest payments, makes correct change, and processes credit card transactions properly.
• Performs pre- and post-shift side work efficiently.
• Works assigned events as needed.
• Reports all equipment problems and maintenance issues to management.
• Restocks and replenishes inventory and supplies.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods of time, up to the duration of a scheduled shift
• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing up to 25–50 pounds (e.g., kegs, cases of beverages, ice bins, and bar supplies)
• Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, kneeling, and twisting to perform bar setup, service, cleaning, and restocking duties
• Ability to use hands and fingers for repetitive motions such as pouring, shaking, stirring, cutting garnishes, and handling glassware
• Ability to maintain balance and coordination while working in a fast-paced environment with potential hazards, including wet floors and confined workspaces
• Ability to communicate effectively with guests and coworkers in a high-noise environment
• Ability to work in varying environmental conditions, including indoor and outdoor settings, and exposure to heat, cold, and other weather-related conditions, as applicable

Qualifications/Skills Needed

• Previous applicable bartending experience
• Must be at least 21 years of age in accordance with California law governing the preparation and service of alcoholic beverages
• Must have a valid California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) certification or the ability to obtain one within 60 days of employment; River Lodge covers the expense
• Must have a valid Food Handler Card or the ability to obtain one within 30 days of employment; River Lodge covers the expense
• Strong customer service and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with guests and team members
• Strong listening and oral communication skills
• Knowledge of standard drink recipes, cocktail preparation, and responsible alcohol service practices
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail and accuracy
• Basic math skills and the ability to handle cash, process payments, and operate a point-of-sale (POS) system
• Ability to communicate effectively in English; additional languages are a plus
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, based on business needs
• Demonstrated reliability, punctuality, and a commitment to workplace safety and compliance with company policies

River Lodge Paso provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, creed, age (40 and over), disability (mental & physical), sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.