Bartender, Temporary

South Coast Botanic Garden Foundation; Palos Verdes Peninsula (CA); On-site; USD 23,000 - 32,000; Part time

Job summary

South Coast Botanic Garden in Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA, is seeking a Temporary Bartender to deliver exceptional guest experiences by preparing and serving beverages while upholding the garden's high standards of safety and service.

This role supports Garden programs and events, requires at least two years of bartending, ServSafe and TIPS certifications, and the ability to work outdoors and in the evenings; starting pay is $20 per hour plus eligible tips.

Qualifications

• Minimum two (2) years of professional bartending experience.
• Current ServSafe Food Handler Certification.
• Current TIPS Alcohol Certification (or equivalent).
• Must meet California's legal age requirements to serve alcohol.

Responsibilities

• Beverage Service: Prepare, mix, garnish, and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to recipes.
• Event Operations: Set up, break down, and restock beverage stations; support concerts and events.
• Guest Experience: Provide friendly, professional service and resolve routine concerns.
• Safety: Follow food safety, sanitation, and responsible beverage service regulations.

Skills

Beverage preparation

Customer service

Cash handling

POS systems

Outdoors work

Job description

Job DetailsJob Location: Palos Verdes Peninsula, CA 90274Salary Range: $20.00 - $20.00 HourlySouth Coast Botanic Garden’s mission is to connect ALL to the wonders of nature and create offbeat experiences that inspire stewardship and sustainability. The 87-acre destination is an oasis of formal garden collections and natural walking trails founded atop the most unlikely of beginnings — a sanitary landfill. Today, South Coast Botanic Garden (SCBG) stands as a testament to the regenerative power of nature and the possibilities for land reclamation as it continues to transition from landfill to landmark.

The stunning Dorothy and John Bohannon Rose Garden is a signature experience, along with the show-stopping Living Wall, a long-term exhibit of eight remarkable large-scale works of fine art sculpture, a seasonal butterfly pavilion, annual public programs and rotating traveling exhibitions. Programs invite guests to interact with nature through music, craft, science, and wellness activities. Even more excitement is ahead with the creation of a 3.5-acre Marilyn and John Long Children and Family Garden scheduled for completion in the coming years.

There has never been a better time to join this dynamic team.

SCBG fosters an environment where strategic focus and cultural health work hand-in-hand, ensuring alignment and resilience. The ideal candidate displays a grateful and positive outlook, wholeheartedly supports SCBG’s mission to connect ALL to the wonders of nature, and has the grit necessary to grow with the Garden. Candidates should be excited to collaborate cross-functionally and contribute to the organization’s strategic goals.

Position Title:

Temporary Bartender

Reporting Relationship:

Reports to Manager, Beverage Program and Front of House

Job Summary:

The Temporary Bartender is responsible for delivering exceptional guest experiences by preparing and serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages while maintaining the highest standards of customer service, safety, and professionalism. This position supports Garden programs, special events, seasonal attractions, concerts, and private rentals by providing efficient beverage service in a welcoming environment.

The ideal candidate enjoys engaging with guests, thrives in a fast-paced outdoor setting, and demonstrates sound judgment, teamwork, and a commitment to responsible alcohol service.

Responsibilities

Beverage Service

• Prepare, mix, garnish, and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages according to established recipes and service standards.
• Verify guest age and ensure responsible alcohol service in compliance with California law and Garden policies.
• Process guest transactions accurately using the Point-of-Sale (POS) system.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked bar throughout each shift.

Event Operations

• Set up, break down, and restock concession trailers, portable bars, and beverage stations.
• Assist with beverage service during concerts, festivals, private events, and seasonal programming.
• Secure inventory and alcohol products in accordance with company procedures.

Guest Experience

• Provide friendly, knowledgeable, and professional customer service.
• Resolve routine guest concerns professionally and elevate issues as appropriate.
• Represent South Coast Botanic Garden in a positive and professional manner.

Safety

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and responsible beverage service regulations.
• Maintain a clean and safe work environment.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of bartending techniques and beverage preparation.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment.
• Ability to remain professional while managing multiple priorities.
• Strong attention to detail and cash-handling accuracy.
• Basic math and computer skills.
• Experience using POS systems.
• Ability to work outdoors for extended periods in varying weather conditions.
• Professional appearance consistent with Garden standards. Appearance standards will be applied in a nondiscriminatory manner and in compliance with applicable law.
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.

QualificationsRequired Qualifications

• Minimum two (2) years of professional bartending experience.
• Current ServSafe Food Handler Certification.
• Current TIPS Alcohol Certification (or equivalent).
• Must meet California's legal age requirements to serve alcohol.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in hospitality, attractions, event venues, botanical gardens, museums, or similar guest-focused environments.
• Additional bartending certifications or food service training.

Physical Requirements

Work is performed both indoors and outdoors and requires frequent standing, walking, bending, reaching, and lifting throughout the workday. Employees must be able to safely lift and carry up to 30 pounds and work outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, cold, rain, and evening events. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Position Details:

This is a temporary, part-time, non-exempt position averaging approximately 24 hours per week from March 16 through May 15. The starting rate is $20.00 per hour, plus eligible tips. Work schedules will include evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events based on operational needs.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

South Coast Botanic Garden is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and celebrate the unique perspectives, experiences, and talents each employee brings to our organization. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

SCBG fosters an environment where strategic focus and cultural health work hand-in-hand, ensuring alignment and resilience. The ideal candidate displays a grateful and positive outlook, wholeheartedly supports SCBG's mission to connect ALL to the wonders of nature, and has the grit necessary to thrive in a dynamic guest-focused environment. Candidates should enjoy collaborating across departments while creating memorable experiences for every Garden visitor.