What are the responsibilities and job description for the Bar Manager position at The Groton Inn and Forge & Vine?
Bar Manager – Forge & Vine
Location: Forge & Vine at The Groton Inn, Groton, MA
Schedule: Full-Time | PM Shifts | Weekend and Holiday Availability Required
Compensation: $60,000–$70,000 annually (based on experience) Anual Bonus Potential
Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, 401(k), Paid Time Off, Employee Discounts, Growth Opportunities
About Forge & Vine
Forge & Vine is an upscale-casual, high-volume restaurant located on the scenic grounds of The Groton Inn. With 156 indoor seats, seasonal outdoor dining, and a wood-fired grill as our centerpiece, we focus on warm hospitality, exceptional service, and memorable guest experiences. We are a hospitality-driven team passionate about food, beverage, and community.
Position Summary
The Bar Manager is a key leadership role with primary responsibility for the bar program and bar team, while also supporting overall front-of-house (FOH) restaurant operations. This position focuses on elevating the beverage experience, driving bar sales, maintaining high standards of execution, and ensuring seamless service throughout the restaurant.
This role requires a dynamic, hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and leads by example on the floor.
Key Responsibilities
Bar Leadership & Beverage Program
Oversee daily bar operations and lead the bar team
Maintain and elevate cocktail, beer, and wine standards
Partner with ownership and the culinary team on seasonal cocktail development
Manage bar inventory, ordering, cost control, and waste reduction
Ensure proper execution of recipes, portioning, and presentation
Guest Experience
Ensure every guest receives warm, attentive, and knowledgeable service at the bar and throughout the restaurant
Actively engage with guests to build relationships and enhance the overall experience
Team Leadership
Recruit, train, schedule, and coach bartenders and FOH team members
Provide ongoing feedback and foster a culture of hospitality, accountability, and professionalism
Deliver pre-shift meetings and beverage education
Floor & Restaurant Management
Lead service during peak hours as a visible and accessible manager
Support overall FOH operations, including service flow and guest issue resolution
Assist with opening/closing procedures and ensure cleanliness and safety standards are met
Financial Performance
Drive beverage sales and bar profitability
Assist with labor management and monitor expenses
Support achievement of overall food and beverage revenue goals
Collaboration
Work closely with the culinary team, GM, and events team to coordinate service, private events, and seasonal menu changes
Qualifications
3 years of restaurant and/or bar management experience in a full-service or upscale-casual setting
Strong beverage knowledge (craft cocktails, wine, beer)
Proven leadership skills with a hands-on, team-oriented approach
Exceptional communication and interpersonal abilities
Experience with POS systems (Toast a plus), reservation platforms (OpenTable preferred), and basic financial reporting
Flexible schedule, including weekends, evenings, and holidays
ServSafe and TIPS certifications required
What We’re Looking For
A genuine love of hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences
Passion for beverage programs and bar culture
Calm under pressure, solutions-oriented, and detail-driven
Ability to motivate, mentor, and develop a team
Professional presence and high standards of personal presentation
Experience Required:
Restaurant and/or Bar Management: 3 years (Required)
Ability to Commute:
Groton, MA 01450 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
Groton, MA 01450: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person