Lead Bartender in Chicago, Illinois at 16 On Center

Position Summary

As the Lead Bartender at Moneygun, you are a role model for the bar team and an extension of management. You set the standard for speed, technique, cleanliness, service, teamwork, and, most importantly, genuine hospitality. You lead by example and build trust and respect with the bar team through consistency, dependability, accountability, and clear communication.

• Ensure all drinks and steps of service are executed consistently at the highest level
• Maintain bar cleanliness, organization, and overall readiness for service
• Train new bartenders and support ongoing training and development of existing team members
• Assist with updating training guidelines and materials alongside management
• Facilitate Monthlygun cocktail submissions, including recipe documentation, costing, and timelines
• Support service by running drinks and food, marking tables for upcoming food, and assisting with table maintenance as needed
• Monitor supply levels and notify the manager responsible for ordering when supplies are running low, including glassware, dry goods, liquor, packaged goods, perishable items, and other bar supplies
• Assist with updating opening, closing, and sidework checklists and ensure assigned duties are completed consistently
• Maintain awareness of the floor plan and guest seating, including the placement and recognition of VIPs, regulars, and returning guests to support the guest experience
• Assist with floor cuts as needed
• Assist with and facilitate photo opportunities and other needs for social media
• Work alongside management to become familiar with liquor, produce, and other bar-related ordering procedures
• Utilize Toast POS functions, including voids, comps, gratuity, employee discounts, button creation, and 86ing items
• Maintain familiarity with Google Drive and other systems used for bar operations
• Assist with end-of-month beverage inventory recording and reporting
• Engage with guests, assist with quickly resolving concerns, and build relationships that contribute to a strong sense of community
• Help ensure all guests and team members are treated equally and feel welcomed in the space
• Serve as Manager on Duty (MOD) for up to three shifts per week

When Scheduled as Manager On Duty:

• Set and maintain the overall atmosphere of the space, including music and lighting
• Support overall floor operations, including servers, bartenders, food runners, bussers, door staff, and hosts
• Maintain awareness of guest interactions and intoxication levels to support a safe environment
• Assist with server and bartender closeouts and ensure accurate tip information is collected
• Enter relevant notes into the manager log
• Document notable events and guest issues, particularly incidents involving police or other emergency response
• Maintain operational standards, policies, and procedures through the end of the night
• Complete all required closing procedures according to the closing checklist
• Assist with floor management decisions, including staff cuts and flow of service

About You

• 3+ years of bartending experience in a high-volume or craft cocktail environment
• Strong knowledge of classic cocktails, spirits, and bar techniques
• Confident working in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail
• Natural leader who leads by example and supports team development
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Consistent, reliable, and accountable in both performance and attitude
• Strong sense of hospitality and ability to connect genuinely with guests
• Comfortable addressing guest concerns and making decisions in the moment
• Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple priorities during service
• Comfortable learning and using Toast POS, Google Drive, and other systems required for the role
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods and lift up to 25 pounds, with reasonable accommodation

• Job Type: Full-time, Hourly
• Compensation: $16/hr + Tips $25/hr MOD
• Paid leave and paid sick leave in accordance with Chicago requirements.
• Benefits: Health insurance with employer contribution; voluntary dental, vision, short-term disability, accident, and hospital coverage; employer-paid life insurance; voluntary life insurance; 401(k) retirement plan with company match; paid parental leave after 1 year of service; Transit benefits through a pre-tax payroll deduction program; unlimited PTO
• Dining discounts at 16 On Center properties and complimentary or discounted tickets to shows at 16 On Center venues, including Salt Shed, Thalia Hall, SPACE, and Empty Bottle, subject to availability.