Bartender

Collaboraction Theatre Co; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 18,184 - 25,898; Part time

Job summary

Collaboraction Theatre Company of Chicago is seeking a highly responsible bartender to support front-of-house beverage service during performances, events, and rentals.

You will maintain a clean, stocked bar, handle POS transactions, and ensure compliance with local alcohol laws while delivering welcoming hospitality to guests.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Illinois BASSET certification.
• Experience as a bartender.
• Nonprofit/theatre/arts/community setting experience preferred.
• Ability to work flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and some holidays.

Responsibilities

• Oversee bar service during performances, events and rentals.
• Prepare and maintain the bar area and inventory.
• Ensure cleanliness and welcoming service space.
• Handle POS transactions and reconcile sales.
• Maintain end-of-shift financial records.
• Ensure alcohol service complies with city/state regulations and responsible beverage service.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Problem-solving

Organizational skills

Education

HS diploma or equivalent

Tools

Cash handling

POS systems

Job description

Collaboraction Theatre Company of Chicago, a 30 year old Emmy-award winning non-profit theatre for social change, is seeking a highly responsible, service-oriented, and detail-focused bartender to support the operation of its front-of-house beverage service. This position is essential to maintaining a safe, welcoming, and well-managed environment for our audiences.

The bartender is a key team member whose work contributes directly to the organization’s mission by ensuring that visitors to our space are served with strong hospitality standards and that our bar and lounge are clean, stocked, and welcoming.

Primary Responsibilities

The bartender oversees bar service during performances, events, and rentals, ensuring efficient and professional operation before, during, and after each engagement. Responsibilities include preparing and maintaining the bar area, managing beverage and supply inventory, and ensuring the cleanliness and appearance of the service space.

The role also includes handling point-of-sale transactions, reconciling sales activity, and maintaining accurate end-of-shift financial records. The successful candidate will ensure that all alcohol service is conducted in accordance with city and state regulations and with a strong commitment to responsible beverage service.

Qualifications

Successful candidates will have a high school diploma or equivalent, Illinois BASSET certification, and experience as a bartender. Experience in a nonprofit, theatre, arts, or community-based setting is strongly preferred.

They will demonstrate sound organizational ability, strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills, and the capacity to manage multiple responsibilities in a live-event environment. Familiarity with cash handling and point-of-sale systems is desirable.

This position requires the ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and occasional holidays, based on production and event needs. Candidates must also be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 30 pounds as necessary for routine facility and event operations.

Organizational Fit

Collaboraction Theatre Company of Chicago seeks candidates who value collaboration, accountability, and community-centered service. The ideal applicant will understand the importance of maintaining a welcoming cultural space and will take pride in supporting an organization whose mission is rooted in artistic engagement, public dialogue, and meaningful connection with diverse audiences.

Compensation

This position pays $16.00 per hour plus tips, and is classified as 1099 non-exempt event staff. Schedule and weekly hours may vary depending on performance calendars, rentals, and organizational programming.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Collaboraction Theatre Company of Chicago is committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and respectful workplace. The organization encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and identities and seeks to build a team that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.