Lead Server

Harper Associates Llc; Birmingham (MI); On-site; USD 73,000 - 83,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Gratuity

Travel expenses covered

Private residence work

Long-term growth potential

Job summary

Harper Associates Llc is seeking a polished Lead Server & Beverage Specialist for a private residence, with duties spanning a private suite at a professional sports arena and travel with the family to maintain hospitality standards across locations.

The ideal candidate has 5+ years in fine dining or VIP service, strong wine and cocktail expertise, and discretion. Compensation is $35–$40 per hour, plus overtime, 401K, PTO, and full medical/dental/vision coverage, plus daily lunch.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in fine dining, luxury hotels, private households, or VIP service.
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience.
• Sommelier certification or WSET Level 2+ preferred.
• Strong mixology and cocktail prep skills.
• Ability to manage catered events and formal service.
• Professional, discreet, and anticipates principals' needs.
• Flexible availability including travel.

Responsibilities

• Deliver elevated service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner when in residence.
• Oversee formal and informal service, in-home and at events.
• Prepare and serve craft cocktails and maintain bar program.
• Provide wine service, including pairings and inventory management.
• Lead and supervise a small team of servers.
• Support hosting on game days and guest experience.
• Collaborate with chefs, household staff, and vendors.
• Travel with family to maintain hospitality standards.

Skills

Leadership

Wine knowledge

Craft cocktails

VIP service

Discretion

Education

Sommelier certification or WSET Level 2+

Job description

Lead Server & Beverage Specialist – Private Residence

Schedule: Full-Time | May Include Early Mornings, Evenings, Weekends, Late Nights, and Game Days

Compensation: $35 - $40 / hr. + Overtime and Double Time | 401K | PTO | Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance | Daily Lunch

Position Overview:

A private, high-net-worth family is seeking a polished and experienced Lead Server & Beverage Specialist to oversee all aspects of hospitality service across their primary residence, private suite at a professional sports arena, and during some domestic travel. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in fine dining, craft cocktails, and wine service, along with the ability to manage and mentor a small team of servers.

This role is best suited for someone who thrives in private service environments, is flexible and discreet, and consistently delivers excellence at every level of service.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver elevated service for breakfast, lunch, and dinner when the family is in residence
• Oversee and participate in formal and informal meal service, both in-home and at events
• Prepare and serve craft cocktails and maintain a fully stocked bar program
• Provide knowledgeable wine service, including wine pairings and inventory management
• Lead and supervise a small team of servers, ensuring service consistency and team coordination
• Support private suite hosting on game days, managing team and guest experience
• Collaborate with private chefs, household staff, and outside vendors/caterers
• Travel with the family to maintain hospitality standards across properties and locations
• Maintain all dining and service areas with a focus on excellence, discretion, and readiness

Qualifications:

• 5+ years in fine dining restaurants, luxury hotels, private households, or VIP service
• Proven leadership or supervisory experience in a service environment
• Prefer deep knowledge of wine; Sommelier certification or WSET Level 2+
• Skilled in modern mixology and classic cocktail preparation
• Comfortable managing catered events and formal table service
• Highly professional, discreet, and able to anticipate the needs of principals and guests
• Flexible availability, including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and travel
• Valid driver’s license required, passport preferred
• Food handler’s and alcohol service certifications (or willingness to obtain)

What We Offer:

• A unique opportunity to work in a refined, high-end private service environment
• Competitive salary, gratuity, and fully covered travel expenses
• The chance to lead a dedicated team and shape a world-class hospitality experience
• Long‑term growth potential and a respectful, professional working environment