Bartender

Overview

The Bartender at Neoteca is responsible for delivering warm, polished, and memorable hospitality through exceptional beverage service. This role combines technical skill with genuine connection, embodying Neoteca’s philosophy of “less is more when less is perfect.” Bartenders are leaders of the guest experience, curators of Italian wine and spirits, and ambassadors of Neoteca’s energy, culture, and consistency.

Key Responsibilities

1. Guest Hospitality & Service

• Provide welcoming, attentive, and intuitive hospitality at the bar and throughout the restaurant.
• Engage guests with product knowledge, recommendations, and conversation that enhance their experience.
• Create a warm and memorable atmosphere consistent with Neoteca’s hospitality standards.
• Handle guest concerns with professionalism, ownership, and service recovery techniques.

2. Beverage Execution

• Prepare all cocktails, non alcoholic and low ABV, spritzes, coffees, and specialty beverages to Neoteca standards.
• Maintain consistency, precision, and speed while producing drinks for the entire restaurant.
• Observe proper wine service techniques including presenting, opening, pouring, and describing wines.
• Follow recipes precisely and maintain the integrity of Neoteca’s cocktail and beverage program.
• Continuously expand knowledge of Italian wines, regions, and flavor profiles.

3. Operational Responsibilities

• Complete opening, running, and closing duties with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked bar at all times.
• Ensure proper mise en place including fresh juices, garnishes, syrups, glassware, and tools.
• Comply with all sanitation, health, and safety regulations.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate needs to management before shortages occur.

4. Teamwork & Communication

• Work in close collaboration with servers, hosts, and the kitchen to support smooth operations.
• Communicate clearly and efficiently during service to ensure pacing and accuracy.
• Assist servers with wine service or table touches when the bar is slow.
• Support teammates and contribute positively to Neoteca’s culture and environment.

5. Salesmanship & Education

• Guide guests through our wine list, cocktails, and Italian spirits with confidence.
• Upsell ethically — offering enhancements that genuinely benefit the guest experience.
• Stay informed on seasonal specials, new cocktails, wines by the glass, and menu changes.
• Participate in ongoing wine, cocktail, and hospitality training.
• Be an active contributor to beverage development and team learning.

Qualifications

• 2-4 years bartending experience in a full-service, hospitality-driven restaurant.
• Strong knowledge of spirits, beer, and wine (Italian wine preferred, but not required).
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment while maintaining composure and warmth.
• Strong communication skills and a natural sense of hospitality.
• Familiarity with POS systems, cash handling, and bar best practices.
• Must be 21+ with required food handler and BASSET certification (or willing to obtain).

Personal Attributes

Neoteca bartenders embody the traits of high-hospitality professionals:

• Warm, positive, and approachable
• Naturally curious and eager to learn
• Detail-oriented with high personal standards
• Calm under pressure
• Team-first mentality
• Integrity-driven
• Hospitality “heart” — genuine desire to make people feel welcome

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs (cases of wine, kegs, etc.)
• Ability to move quickly and safely in a crowded environment

Why Work at Neoteca

• A culture centered around hospitality, growth, and teamwork
• Opportunities for wine education and certification (WSET/CMS-focused internal training)
• Creative involvement in beverage development
• Stable schedule and positive work environment
• Being part of a respected, community-driven restaurant in Barrington

Job Types: Full-time, Part-time

Pay: $150.00 - $400.00 per day

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Paid time off
• Paid training

Work Location: In person