Old Tucson Bartender Shift Lead

Division/Department: Food and Beverage

Job Title: Bartender Shift Lead

Reports To: Food and Beverage Supervisor

Type of position: Non-Exempt / Hourly

Employee Classification: Seasonal

Compensation: $15.00 - $17.00 Hourly

Location: Tucson, AZ

Job Summary:

The Bartender Shift Lead supports the Food & Beverage Supervisor by overseeing bar operations during assigned shifts, ensuring exceptional customer service, efficient workflow, and compliance with safety and alcohol service regulations. This role leads by example behind the bar while assisting with staff supervision, monitoring inventory levels, and addressing operational issues in real-time. The ideal candidate is energetic, experienced in bartending, and capable of confidently supporting the F&B leadership team in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily bar operations during scheduled shifts, ensuring smooth and efficient service.
• Supervise and support bartenders, barbacks, and other bar staff.
• Assign tasks and monitor performance, stepping in to assist or redirect as needed.
• Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment and handle conflict resolution when necessary.
• Provide outstanding service to guests, maintaining a friendly and professional demeanor.
• Mix, garnish, and serve drinks according to recipes and customer preferences.
• Manage tabs, process payments accurately, and address guest concerns promptly and professionally.
• Set up and break down the bar area at the beginning and end of shifts.
• Ensure cleanliness, organization, and compliance with hygiene standards.
• Monitor alcohol service to ensure legal and responsible consumption by patrons.
• Track and manage bar inventory during the shift, noting low stock or discrepancies.
• Assist in receiving, organizing, and storing bar deliveries.
• Ensure correct portioning to minimize waste and maximize profitability.
• Act as the main point of contact between bar staff and management during the shift.
• Communicate with kitchen staff and servers to ensure smooth service flow.
• Report incidents, staff performance issues, or operational concerns to the Food and Beverage Supervisor.

Education, Skill and Work Experience Requirements:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; hospitality or mixology certification is a plus.
• Arizona Title 4 Certification required.
• Minimum of two (2) years of bartending experience in a high-volume environment, with prior leadership or supervisory experience in a bar or hospitality setting preferred.
• In-depth knowledge of drink preparation, including classic and contemporary cocktails, beer, and wine.
• Proficient in basic math and point-of-sale (POS) systems, with strong multitasking abilities in fast-paced settings.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and decision-making skills with a professional and engaging demeanor.
• Strong time management skills with the ability to lead by example and work collaboratively with a team.
• Detail-oriented with a solid understanding of bar equipment, drink mixing techniques, and inventory management.
• Must meet the minimum legal age to serve alcohol in Arizona.

Work Environment:

• Work is performed in both indoor and outdoor environments, with exposure to varying weather conditions and temperatures.
• Fast-paced, high-energy setting with frequent exposure to loud music, large crowds, and dynamic lighting, including low lighting conditions.
• Requires standing, walking, and moving for extended periods, with frequent bending, lifting, pushing, and pulling.
• Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull items weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Schedule includes extended and irregular hours, with availability required for special events, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Frequent direct interaction with guests and team members in a lively, customer-facing environment.