Lead Bartender

Auberge; Newport (RI); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Auberge is seeking a Lead Bartender in Newport, RI. This role requires a skilled individual to oversee bar operations and provide mentorship to bar staff. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of bartending experience, along with expertise in beer, wine, and spirits. Responsibilities include developing seasonal cocktails and ensuring exceptional guest service. Flexible scheduling is required, including weekends and holidays. EEO employer with a commitment to diversity.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Bartender, with 2 years in a fine dining/luxury resort setting.
• Professional appearance and character with flexibility for weekends and holidays.
• Ability to obtain relevant state and local certifications.

Responsibilities

• Oversee bar operations and cleanliness, ensuring stock is maintained.
• Mentor and train bartenders on drink recipes and service standards.
• Develop seasonal cocktails based on trends.

Skills

Expert proficiency in bartending

Advanced knowledge of beer, wine, and spirits

Ability to mentor and train staff

Knowledge of F&B sales strategies

Education

Hospitality Certificate or Degree

Wine certifications (Court of Master Sommeliers or WSET)

Cicerone certification

TIPS certification

Job description

Lead Bartender

The Lead Bartender serves as a role model for the bar staff, demonstrating expert proficiency in bartending and guest interactions. Engaging in both front and back-of-house tasks, the Lead Bartender oversees bar operations, cleanliness, staff training, and inventory management. The role requires advanced knowledge of beer, wine, spirits, and craft cocktail construction.

Behind the Bar

• Set up and break down workstations, ensuring the bar is fully stocked daily.
• Produce house‑made items, including syrups, garnishes, and batch cocktails.
• Contribute to improving F&B sales revenues by being knowledgeable about drinks and menu items.
• Accurately take and place orders, input them into the system, and prepare guest checks.

Mentorship and Talent Development

• Mentor and provide ongoing training and coaching to bartenders on drink recipes, techniques, and efficient prep management to ensure proper execution and adherence to standards.
• Oversee bartenders to ensure proper guest service standards and mentorship for skill advancement.

Research and Development

• Develop seasonal cocktails aligned with current trends and market demands.
• Stay informed about local distillery, winery, and brewery offerings
• Must be aware of, and introduce, new technology and hospitality innovations that could improve the guest experience

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as a Bartender, with 2 years in a fine dining/luxury resort setting.
• Professional appearance, good character, ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays, according to department needs.
• Hospitality Certificate or Degree desirable
• Certifications: Wine (Court of Master Sommeliers or WSET), Cicerone, TIPS highly preferred
• Ability to obtain relevant state and local government certifications, such as food handlers certificate or alcohol training certifications, as applicable to the position.

Vanderbilt Hotel LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, M/F/D/V. Vanderbilt Hotel LLC provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all team members and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Vanderbilt Hotel LLC complies with applicable state and local laws governing non‑discrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.