Location: Bunker at The Duncan — 1515 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60607
Schedule: Full-time (40+ hours per week, requiring daytime, night, and weekend availability)
Compensation:
- $32.00 – $34/hr for administrative/management shifts (approx. 12 hours/week)
- $17.00/hr + tips for floor bartending shifts
About the Role
Bunker (part of Heritage Hospitality) is an unpretentious neighborhood gem and go-to event spot located just blocks from the United Center. Known for our smash burgers, hyper-local Chicago tap list, and vibrant outdoor patio, we provide a high-energy yet relaxed experience for neighborhood locals and sports fans alike. Because we cater heavily to Chicago sports fans and event attendees, a candidate who is passionate about and knowledgeable in sports will thrive in our culture and connect easily with our regulars.
We are seeking a dedicated, hands-on Bar & Operations Manager to take full operational ownership of Bunker. Because this is a dedicated onsite role, you will act as a true leader for the entire space - overseeing the bar program, managing front-of-house administrative operations, and maintaining active quality control over our kitchen line. This is a hybrid role: you will execute business-management duties while regularly jumping behind the bar to drive service standards and connect with our guests.
Key Responsibilities
Management & Operations:
Manage day-to-day operations and serve as the primary point of contact for Bunker.
Work closely and collaboratively with the owner and other business managers across the Heritage Hospitality group.
Own the hiring, onboarding, training, and performance management of front-of-house and patio staff.
Oversee weekly scheduling, payroll approval, and routine financial reporting.
Maintain the Square POS system backend, ensuring accurate pricing, menu consistency, and seamless execution of the patio QR ordering systems.
Collaborate on events, game-day promotions, marketing ideas, and social media content to drive neighborhood engagement.
Bar Program & Service:
Lead menu development, utilizing proper cocktail techniques to keep seasonal and staple offerings fresh, high-quality, and cost-effective.
Oversee all bar ordering, monthly inventory tracking, and relationship management with distributors and brand representatives.
Host and conduct periodic cocktail classes for guests and/or staff.
Prepare and serve our menu of classic cocktails, local craft beers, wine, and food options in accordance with company recipes and hospitality standards.
Manage floor flow, guest interactions, and handle cash/card transactions accurately through Square POS.
Maintain a pristine, organized, and legally compliant bar area (including strict ID verification and safe alcohol service).
Kitchen Coordination & Quality Control:
Maintain a hands-on presence on the floor, actively monitoring the kitchen line during peak shifts to ensure food quality, presentation, and ticket times meet company standards.
Serve as the primary liaison between the bar/floor staff and the kitchen team to ensure seamless communication, order accuracy, and smooth service flow.
Conduct regular walkthroughs of back-of-house storage and prep areas to assist in monitoring cleanliness, health department compliance, and inventory waste control.
Work closely with the kitchen team to coordinate food prep levels and anticipate high volume ahead of major United Center games and event nights.
Requirements & Qualifications
Experience: Minimum 3 years of experience strictly as a Bar Manager in a fast-paced environment (lead bartender experience alone is not sufficient).
Cultural Fit: A strong knowledge of and passion for sports is a significant plus, as it helps tailor the guest experience to our game-day demographic.
Cross-Functional Skills: Comfort and familiarity with back-of-house operations, food safety standards, or expediting food orders is highly preferred.
Knowledge: Deep understanding of basic and advanced cocktail techniques, spirit categories, local beer styles, menu development, and comprehensive bar ordering.
Certifications: Must possess valid Illinois BASSET and Food Handler certifications (Management level preferred).
Age: Must be 21 years of age or older.
Physical: Ability to stand for extended periods, reach, bend, and comfortably lift/move up to 55 lbs (keg moving will be required).
Traits: Exceptional communication skills, strict punctuality, and a calm, reliable demeanor under the high-pressure rush of United Center event nights.
Language: Must be fluent in English; Spanish speaking skills are a major plus.
Perks & Benefits
30% employee discount at all Heritage Hospitality and bike shop properties.
Access to The Duncan’s on-site full gym, indoor pool, and basketball court.
Daily shift meal.
Regular staff appreciation parties.
Opportunity to grow with one of Chicago’s most forward-thinking independent hospitality groups.
More detail about Bunker part of Heritage Hospitality Group, please visit
https://culinaryagents.com/entities/579174-Bunker