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Head Bartender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

* We have an opening for a full time HEAD BARTENDER position. * Location: 945 Madison - 945 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10021. Note: online applications accepted only. * Schedule : Full time; Days and ...

Proven experience as a Head Bartender or Lead Mixologist in a fine dining or luxury hospitality environment. * Mastery of classic cocktail techniques, premium spirits, and luxury bar standards.

Proven experience as a Head Bartender or Lead Mixologist in a fine dining or luxury hospitality environment. * Mastery of classic cocktail techniques, premium spirits, and luxury bar standards.

Proven experience as a Head Bartender or Lead Mixologist in a fine dining or luxury hospitality environment. * Mastery of classic cocktail techniques, premium spirits, and luxury bar standards.

Promptly reports equipment and beverage quality issues to head bartender, beverage director or managers * Has understanding and knowledge of how to properly use and maintain all equipment * Performs ...

Previous experience as a Lead Bartender, Head Bartender, or in a bar leadership role. * Extensive knowledge of spirits, wine, beer, and craft cocktails. * A proven ability to lead, coach, and ...

Proven experience as a Head Bartender or Lead Mixologist in a fine dining or luxury hospitality environment. * Mastery of classic cocktail techniques, premium spirits, and luxury bar standards.

Address escalations promptly and appropriately to the Head Bartender and Bar Manager. * Submits orders or creates requisition forms for liquor, beer, and other bar-related supplies. * TIPS Certified ...

Address escalations promptly and appropriately to the Head Bartender and Bar Manager. * Submits orders or creates requisition forms for liquor, beer, and other bar-related supplies. * TIPS Certified ...

Address escalations promptly and appropriately to the Head Bartender and Bar Manager. * Submits orders or creates requisition forms for liquor, beer, and other bar-related supplies. * TIPS Certified ...

Address escalations promptly and appropriately to the Head Bartender and Bar Manager. * Submits orders or creates requisition forms for liquor, beer, and other bar-related supplies. * TIPS Certified ...

Address escalations promptly and appropriately to the Head Bartender and Bar Manager. * Submits orders or creates requisition forms for liquor, beer, and other bar-related supplies. * TIPS Certified ...

Address escalations promptly and appropriately to the Head Bartender and Bar Manager. * Submits orders or creates requisition forms for liquor, beer, and other bar-related supplies. * TIPS Certified ...

Address escalations promptly and appropriately to the Head Bartender and Bar Manager. * Submits orders or creates requisition forms for liquor, beer, and other bar-related supplies. * TIPS Certified ...

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Head Bartender information

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How much do head bartender jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for head bartender in the United States is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.62 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a head bartender?

Head Bartenders are experienced professionals responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a bar, managing bartending staff, and ensuring high-quality service. They create drink menus, train new bartenders, maintain inventory, and handle customer relations. In addition to mixing and serving drinks, Head Bartenders often supervise scheduling, enforce safety and cleanliness standards, and resolve any issues that arise during service. Their leadership helps maintain a smooth workflow and an enjoyable atmosphere for patrons.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a head bartender?

To thrive as a Head Bartender, you need extensive knowledge of mixology, beverage service, and bar management, often gained through hands-on experience and relevant hospitality certifications. Familiarity with POS systems, inventory management software, and health and safety compliance tools is typically required. Exceptional leadership, customer service, and multitasking abilities set top candidates apart in this role. These skills ensure efficient bar operations, high-quality guest experiences, and a productive, motivated team.

What are some common challenges faced by a head bartender, and how can they be overcome?

As a Head Bartender, you may face challenges such as managing a busy service while ensuring quality control, handling staff scheduling, and addressing customer concerns promptly. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are key to overcoming these hurdles. Balancing leadership duties with hands-on bartending requires prioritization and the ability to delegate tasks efficiently. Staying updated on industry trends and fostering a positive team environment can also help you excel in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Head Bartender vs Bartender?

AspectHead BartenderBartender
CredentialsExperience in bartending, mixology skills, sometimes certificationsExperience in bartending, basic mixology skills
Work EnvironmentSupervises staff, manages bar operations, trains new bartendersPrepares drinks, serves customers, maintains bar cleanliness
Employer & Industry UsageCommonly found in bars, restaurants, hotels, and clubsFound in similar venues, often as entry to mid-level position

The main difference between a Head Bartender and a Bartender is that the Head Bartender oversees bar operations, supervises staff, and handles training, while a Bartender primarily focuses on preparing and serving drinks. The Head Bartender has more responsibilities in management and coordination, whereas the Bartender role is more customer-facing and hands-on.

More about Head Bartender jobs

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What are the most commonly searched types of Bartender jobs?

The most popular types of Bartender jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Head Bartender jobs?

The top employers for Head Bartender jobs are:

What states have the most Head Bartender jobs?

States with the most job openings for Head Bartender jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Head Bartender jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Head Bartender jobs are:

Infographic showing various Head Bartender job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, and 25% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $33,085 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

HEAD BARTENDER (FULL TIME)

Compass Group

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$22/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 14 days ago


Compass Group rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 1,092 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

348th of 495 rated business services


Job description

  • We have an opening for a full time HEAD BARTENDER position.
  • Location: 945 Madison - 945 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10021. Note: online applications accepted only.
  • Schedule: Full time; Days and hours may vary. Open availability is required. More details upon interview. 
  • Requirement: Previous fine dining experience is required. 
  • Fixed Pay Rate: $22.00 per hour.
    • Why work for us?:
    • Chase the dream of French cuisine, where culinary legends are made. 
    • Level up your game; aim to outshine everyone in the industry. 
    • Look up to the masters; learn from the chefs you admire. 
    • Bring that authentic French kitchen energy; intensity, passion, precision. 
    • Be the next rising star; an up-and-coming cook with big ambitions. 
    • Dream big; inspired by icons like Chef Juan. 
    • Work with the best of the best; top-tier tools, kitchens, and ingredients. 
    • ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES:
         Enforce compliance with established kitchen standards, procedures, departmental policies, and sanitation guidelines.   Maintain in-depth knowledge of recipes, ingredients, allergens, and proper food presentation. 

       

    • KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:
         Possess extensive knowledge of diverse culinary styles and demonstrate mastery across all line-level cooking stations. Experience working in an upscale, high-volume fine dining environment.

      Marcel is located in the iconic Breuer building on Madison Avenue, a Roman and Williams-designed space created in partnership with Sotheby's where cuisine, art, and design converge. Led by Chef-Partner Marie-Aude Rose and Executive Chef Juan Moncalvo, the restaurant serves refined continental cuisine rooted in French tradition and inspired by Chef Rose's homage to the Paris she knows and loves. The menu blends classical technique with modern New York sensibilities, focusing on seasonality and highlighting carefully sourced local ingredients with minimal, thoughtful enhancement.
      We are developing skilled culinary craftsmen and women who want to grow in their careers and strive for excellence. Often described as the "big brother" to downtown favorite La Mercerie, Marcel also features a celebrated patisserie program with handcrafted viennoiserie, madeleines, tarts, and entremets. The experience unfolds in a striking, design-forward space with an open kitchen, sculptural dining room, garden terrace, museum-quality art, and a wine program drawn from Sotheby's cellar, all supporting Marcel's mission to be a culinary destination of excellence in New York City.

We Make Applying Easy!  Want to apply to this job via text messaging?  Text JOB to 75000 and search requisition ID number 1559227

The advertised program is a conversational recruiting assistant that helps you apply to jobs with Compass Group. Message frequency varies. Message and data rates may apply. Text STOP to opt out or HELP for help. Terms and conditions: http://olivia.paradox.ai/moSkg

 

This position is eligible for an Employee Referral Bonus! If you know someone that is qualified for this role, please use the 'job search' in PeopleHub to refer your referral and email them a link to apply. Your referral will be able to apply by clicking the link in the email. You can check the status through your profile, accessible via Careers in PeopleHub, by clicking on 'referral tracking.' For Employee Referral guidelines, FAQs and the Compass Employee Referral Policy, email MyReferral@compass-usa.com. 

Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry's leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations! Voted Glassdoor's Employee Choice AwardsBest Places to work This is R/A !

Job Summary


Summary:   Prepares and serves beverages to guests in bar area in a friendly, courteous and timely manner.  
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Adheres to state, federal and corporate liquor regulations pertaining to serving alcoholic beverages to minors and intoxicated guests.
  • Sets up assigned bars; requisitions and stocks all beer, wine, spirits, paper products, straws and stirrers, condiments, glassware, ice and produce.
  • Maintains stock, prepares, cures and stores all fresh fruit and vegetable garnishes, juices and other perishables to ensure product quality.
  • Greets guests in a courteous, friendly manner.
  • Takes and/or processes orders for drinks; mixes, garnishes and presents drinks using standard ingredient recipes; practices prudent portion control.
  • Checks guests at the bar for proper identification.
  • Detects and acts upon guest inebriation as trained. Demonstrates knowledge of liquor laws.
  • Receives cash from guests, makes change, verifies validity of charges, records charges and ensures vouchers are properly executed.
  • Locks up and stores all beverage product, food, equipment items, deposits and cash drops; secures bank.
  • Performs general cleaning tasks to adhere to health and safety standards; keeps work area clean and organized.
  • Arranges bottles and glasses to maintain an attractive display in the bar area.
  • Washes and sterilizes stemware.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits.

Both full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Retirement Plan
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program

In addition, full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Abides by all Company policies and procedures including but not limited to: 

  • The use of a medium weight cut gloves when handling or using knives, peelers, choppers, mandolins or cleaning a slicer. 
  • The use of oven mitts, fryer gloves or steamer gloves when handling hot pans from ovens, warmers or steamtables. 
  • The use of slip-resistant shoes and proper lifting techniques. 

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_RA.pdf

About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
 

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity.

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/ 

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis. 

We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.


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