Lead Bartender — High-Volume Hotel Bar Leader

DHS Brand; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 32,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Hotel room discounts

Daily pay access

Job summary

Hotel Nell – Union Market in Washington, DC, is seeking a Lead Bartender to oversee daily bar operations, ensure high standards of beverage quality, and guide the bar team through service. The ideal candidate will bring leadership, extensive spirits knowledge, and a calm, organized approach to a fast-paced hotel bar environment.

Responsibilities include training staff, managing inventory, controlling costs, handling payments, and collaborating with kitchen and management on menus and events.

Qualifications

• 2–3 years bartending experience in high-volume environments.
• Leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of spirits, cocktails, beer, and wine.
• Ability to work under pressure with professionalism.
• Experience with POS systems and inventory procedures.
• Current responsible alcohol-service certification; food-handler cert may be required.
• Must meet legal age requirements for serving alcohol.

Responsibilities

• Lead bar operations during shifts, including opening, service, and closing procedures.
• Prepare and serve beverages accurately and efficiently.
• Provide leadership and direction to bartenders, barbacks, and other staff.
• Train staff on drink preparation, product knowledge, responsible service, sanitation, and guest engagement.
• Deliver hospitality by anticipating guest needs and resolving concerns.
• Maintain quality and consistency across cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
• Monitor inventory levels, complete stock counts, and communicate ordering needs.
• Help control beverage costs by monitoring portions, waste, and breakage.
• Maintain a clean, organized bar in compliance with health and safety requirements.
• Process payments and follow cash-handling and POS procedures.
• Enforce responsible service and verify IDs.
• Collaborate with management and kitchen staff on menu development and events.
• Address issues promptly to avoid guest, staffing, or safety concerns.

Skills

Bartending

Leadership

Beverage knowledge

Communication

POS systems

Education

Responsible alcohol-service certification

Food-safety certification

Tools

POS systems

Job description

Hotel Nell – Union Market in Washington, DC, is seeking a Lead Bartender to oversee daily bar operations, ensure high standards of beverage quality, and guide the bar team through service. The ideal candidate will bring leadership, extensive spirits knowledge, and a calm, organized approach to a fast-paced hotel bar environment.

Responsibilities include training staff, managing inventory, controlling costs, handling payments, and collaborating with kitchen and management on menus and events.