Bartender in Chicago, New York at 16 On Center

About Us:

16 On Center Chicago owns and operates several live music venues, third-party production, restaurants, bars, and food halls across Chicago and New York. Join the team of one of the country's leading independent promoters.

Our most effective service to our community comes from a team with a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. 16 On Center actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Position Summary:

As a Bartender at Bar Avant, located inside Olly Olly Market at the iconic Starrett-Lehigh Building, you will be responsible for delivering thoughtful, hospitality driven service while executing a cocktail program rooted in the classics with a playful edge. We are looking for passionate, creative “cocktail nerds” who love the craft but also understand that hospitality is the show. This role is ideal for someone who wants to have a hand in shaping something and values creating a welcoming, fun-loving environment where regulars, neighbors, office guests, and first-time visitors alike can feel at home. As an integral part of the team, you will help shape the guest experience by bringing your own energy, personality, and consistency to every shift.

Bar Avant operates Monday through Saturday from 1 PM to 9 PM, meaning no late nights. We mean it.

Additional responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Maintain a warm, welcoming, and attentive atmosphere for every guest
• Follow steps of service to deliver a consistent and thoughtful guest experience
• Guide guests through beverage selections and confidently serve cocktails, beer, wine, and other menu offerings
• Keep the bar, guest-facing spaces, and work areas clean, organized, and stocked throughout service
• Assist with bar prep including batches, syrups, juices, garnishes, and other cocktail components
• Wash, polish, and restock glassware throughout shifts
• Communicate low stock or out-of-stock items proactively to the team
• Complete opening and closing duties with consistency and accountability
• Communicate clearly with teammates to support smooth service and overall guest experience
• Create genuine, memorable guest experiences that keep people coming back
• Contribute ideas related to cocktails, beer selections, and menu development while supporting the overall beverage program

About You:

• 1+ years of bartending experience in a cocktail focused bar, restaurant, or hospitality environment required
• Passion for cocktails, spirits, beer, and hospitality with a genuine interest in the craft
• Strong guest service and communication skills with the ability to create a welcoming experience for a wide range of guests
• Comfortable working independently while also contributing to a collaborative team environment
• Organized, reliable, and able to stay composed in a fast paced service environment
• Ability to multitask and maintain attention to detail during service
• Open availability to work afternoons, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed within operating hours
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and occasionally lift and carry up to 30 lbs using proper lifting techniques
• Comfortable working in a busy, active hospitality environment with repetitive motions and frequent movement throughout shifts