Counter/Bartender

The Press Club Grill; Portland (ME); Hybrid; USD 21,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

The Press Club Grill in Portland, ME is seeking a Counter/Bartender to greet guests, take orders, prepare and serve beverages, and complete sales with a friendly, knowledgeable approach from arrival to departure.

This hybrid role blends front counter service with bar duties, requiring basic cocktail knowledge, accurate POS use, and the ability to work evenings and weekends while maintaining safety standards.

Qualifications

• Must be 18+ for alcohol service.
• Experience in customer-facing roles, preferably in hospitality.
• Excellent verbal communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to read and understand menus and safety documentation.
• Ability to work independently and in a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• ServSafe and/or TIPS certification if required by management.

Responsibilities

• Greet guests and take orders at the counter or bar.
• Prepare and serve alcoholic beverages following recipes and standards.
• Verify guests’ age using ID before serving alcohol.
• Operate POS system and process payments accurately.
• Maintain bar and counter cleanliness, stocking, and organization.
• Notice and communicate allergies or dietary restrictions to the kitchen.

Skills

Customer service

Communication skills

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Flexible schedule

Tools

POS system

Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

As a Counter/Bartender, you are responsible for greeting guests, taking orders, preparing and serving alcoholic beverages, and completing sales transactions. You will be expected to provide friendly, efficient, and knowledgeable service to enhance the overall guest experience from arrival to departure. This hybrid position combines duties from both front counter service and bar operations while adhering to company standards and applicable laws.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Essential functions include, but are not limited to:

Guest Interaction & Service

• Greeting all guests warmly upon entry, at the counter, or when seated in the bar area.
• Maintain friendly and professional interactions with guests throughout their visit.
• Answer guest questions about the food and beverage menu, including ingredients and preparation.
• Take accurate food and drink orders using POS system, order slips, or memorization.
• Upsell items where appropriate to enhance the guest experience.
• Monitor and address guest needs, checking in regularly to ensure satisfaction.
• Note and communicate all allergies or dietary restrictions clearly to the kitchen.
• Distribute completed orders from kitchen or bar to guests promptly.

Alcohol Service

• Prepare and serve alcoholic beverages in compliance with recipes and legal standards.
• Verify guests' legal age using appropriate ID checking protocols before serving alcohol.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the bar, including tools, glassware, and ice stations.
• Complete TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol certification if directed by management.
• Must have basic cocktail build knowledge.

Counter Operations & PO

• Operate POS systems to accurately process transactions and issue receipts.
• Handle multiple forms of payment and make correct changes as needed.
• Maintain awareness of current promotions and store offerings.
• Answer incoming calls, address guest inquiries, and take phone orders when necessary.

Cleanliness & Side Work

• Keep the counter, bar, and dining areas clean, organized, and fully stocked.
• Perform opening and closing duties including cleaning tables, stacking chairs, and preparing stations for the next shift.
• Clean and inspect dishes and utensils; report any issues to management.
• Comply with all sanitation, hygiene, and safety protocols.

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Requirements

• Must meet minimum state age requirement for alcohol service (18+ years).
• Experience in customer-facing roles, preferably in food & beverage or hospitality.
• Excellent verbal communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to read and comprehend menus, labels, and safety documentation.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask effectively.
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Ability to complete and maintain ServSafe and/or TIPS certification if required.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Able to lift up to 25 lbs. and perform physical tasks such as bending, reaching, and repetitive motions.

WORKING CONDITIONS

• High-energy, fast-paced restaurant environment.
• Exposure to heat, cold, noise, and potentially wet or slippery floors.
• Continuous interaction with guests and coworkers.