Bar Lead — (Modern Craft Cocktail Bar, SF) We’re looking for a Bar Lead to help shape the next chapter of our cocktail program, someone who genuinely loves this work. The craft, the chaos, the calm, the connection. You live for that moment when the room hums, specs are tight, and service feels effortless. You care about clean lines, clean hands, clean menus. You think in rhythm and balance, and you can hit a meniscus every time. You’ve got stories to tell and ideas to share, maybe it’s a new prep system, a pop-up idea, or a training format that changes how a team communicates. You’re the kind of bartender who wants to build something, not just clock in. This is an hourly leadership role built for someone who wants ownership without losing touch with the craft. You’ll work closely with management to keep the program moving forward, develop thoughtful cocktails that feel intentional, and keep the systems sharp so busy nights stay smooth. If you care as much about the details behind the bar as you do the guest experience in front of it, this is a space where you can actually build something meaningful. About the Role As Bar Lead, you’ll sit at the intersection of creativity and leadership, overseeing day-to-day bar operations, mentoring the team, and helping define what our program stands for. You’ll collaborate directly with ownership and the GM on everything from menu development and events to systems, consistency, and culture. Who You Are A bartender with leadership instincts and the drive to create something lasting Curious, open-minded, and hungry to keep learning new systems and spirits Confident communicating and running a shift when things get busy Obsessed with hospitality, pacing, and the guest experience Excited by creative freedom, cocktails, events, partnerships, the works Organized, proactive, and not afraid to take ownership when something needs doing What You’ll Do Leadership & Communication Manage and delegate prep so systems stay efficient and consistent Communicate clearly with management and ownership (bar logs, meetings, email threads) Lead by example behind the bar, pace, hospitality, standards Train and mentor staff; set expectations, follow up, and hold people accountable Write clear shift reports and communicate service flow and guest feedback Operations & Systems Handle ordering, inventory, and invoices Keep the bar clean, organized, and ready for action Maintain cash-handling procedures and security standards Keep SOPs, prep guides, and systems current and actually usable Creative Development Collaborate on cocktail creation and long-term program direction Host tastings, manage vendor relationships, and negotiate support Use data, feedback, and instinct to evolve the menu over time Help plan events, collaborations, and brand activations that feel fun, not forced Culture & Hospitality Be a leader and an ambassador, consistent, kind, and unreasonably hospitable Train staff to deliver genuine hospitality, not robotic service Help create a space that feels elevated but unpretentious, where people want to stay Business & Compliance Maintain health, safety, and service standards Support long-term growth through clean systems and smart practices Stay tuned in to what’s happening in the industry, new products, ideas, and trends What You Bring 1–2+ years in a high-volume craft cocktail environment (lead or senior bartender level preferred) Solid understanding of classic structure, specs, and batching systems Deep product knowledge and strong technique Experience mentoring peers or running shifts Comfort with inventory, vendor management, and costing (we can train you here) Excellent communication and time management Interest in events, marketing, and creative community work Compensation & Perks Hourly (open to discussion) + tips Room to grow into a salaried roll Creative freedom in cocktail and program development Mentorship from experienced operators Opportunities for events, education, and brand partnerships Supportive, collaborative environment where people give a damn If you’re a creative bartender who loves people, lives for great service, and thrives when the room’s alive and everything’s clicking, we want to meet you. Send your resume and a quick note about how you think about hospitality, what makes a night memorable, what makes a guest come back, and if you’ve got a cocktail or two you’re especially proud of, show us what you’ve got.