Bartender - Hickory

Job Title: Bartender – Hickory
Reports To: Restaurant Manager / Food & Beverage Manager
Coordinates With: Servers, Kitchen Staff, Bar Team, Front-of-House Staff
Position Type: Full-time; Non-exempt

About Us:

At The Virginian Golf Club & Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, we believe in more than just beautiful views and top-tier amenities — we believe in creating experiences that linger. Located across 1,500+ acres in Virginia’s highlands, our private community blends championship golf, elegant lodging, curated cuisine, and award-winning wine into one destination you’ll never forget.

From Tom Fazio’s pristinely sculpted golf course, to our boutique Inn and luxury yurts, to Hickory — our fine dining restaurant led by a James Beard-nominated chef — everything we do is rooted in hospitality, nature, craftsmanship, and joy. We are growing, innovating, and deeply committed to quality in every service and encounter.

Join us, help us craft memorable moments, and be part of a team that blends country elegance with genuine warmth.

Position Overview

The Bartender at Hickory is responsible for providing an exceptional beverage experience through expert craftsmanship, efficiency, and hospitality. This role requires a balance of creativity, technical precision, and professionalism. The Bartender crafts signature cocktails, maintains product knowledge across wine and spirits, and delivers attentive, engaging service that reflects Hickory’s fine-dining standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve cocktails, wine, beer, and other beverages according to established recipes, presentation, and service standards.
• Engage guests warmly at the bar and in the dining room, offering recommendations and creating memorable, personalized experiences.
• Maintain full knowledge of the menu, seasonal cocktail offerings, wine list, and bar inventory.
• Accurately enter orders into the POS system and process transactions efficiently and securely.
• Ensure responsible alcohol service by verifying guest age and monitoring consumption per company policy.
• Maintain cleanliness, organization, and sanitation of the bar, bar top, and service areas throughout the shift.
• Replenish bar supplies and restock liquor, wine, glassware, and garnishes as needed.
• Support inventory management by assisting with ordering, stock rotation, and waste reduction practices.
• Collaborate closely with servers, kitchen staff, and management to ensure coordinated timing and seamless guest experiences.
• Remain informed on beverage trends, techniques, and ingredients; participate in ongoing training and menu development.
• Consistently uphold Hickory and Nicewonder Inn’s standards of hospitality, presentation, and service excellence.

Qualifications

Required:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: Minimum 3 years of bartending experience in a high-volume or upscale establishment.
• Demonstrated knowledge of classic and contemporary cocktails, spirits, and wine.
• Proven ability to deliver professional and engaging guest service.

Preferred:

• Formal training or certification in bartending, mixology, or hospitality.
• Prior experience in a luxury, resort, or fine-dining environment.
• Familiarity with inventory and bar management systems.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities (KSAs)

• Strong mixology and beverage knowledge, including preparation, flavor balance, and presentation.
• Excellent guest service and interpersonal communication skills.
• Attention to detail, organization, and cleanliness in all aspects of bar operation.
• Ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced service environment.
• Team-oriented, dependable, and composed under pressure.

Work Environment / Physical Requirements

• Restaurant/bar environment with frequent guest interaction.
• Requires standing for extended periods and frequent use of hands/arms.
• Occasional lifting of up to 25 lbs (cases of beverages, supplies).
• Requires evening, weekend, and holiday availability.

Benefits of Joining Our Team

At The Virginian Golf Club, Nicewonder Inn, and Nicewonder Farm & Vineyards, we believe our employees are the heart of our success. We’re proud to offer a supportive, rewarding workplace with benefits designed to help you thrive both personally and professionally.

Our benefits include:

• Competitive Pay – Fair wages with opportunities for growth.
• Health & Wellness – Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus company-provided life insurance at no cost to you.
• Retirement Planning – 401(k) plan with company contribution.
• Paid Time Off – Vacation, holidays, and sick time to support work–life balance.
• Team Member Discounts – Special pricing on lodging, dining, and vineyard experiences.
• Beautiful Work Environment – A scenic setting across 1,500+ acres of rolling hills, vineyards, and golf greens.
• Career Growth – Training, mentorship, and advancement opportunities across hospitality, golf, and agricultural operations.
• Positive Culture – Be part of a professional team that values respect, collaboration, and excellence in service.

EEO Statement

The Virginian Golf Club L.C. is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.