About the Role
As a Bar Lead, you will support daily bar operations, special programming, and maintain a clean, safe, and organized service area. You will manage inventory, ordering, and scheduling, provide guidance to the bar team, and shape the bar's atmosphere to ensure smooth operations, strong teamwork, and a positive guest experience.
Responsibilities
- Manage bar inventory, including monitoring stock levels, placing orders, and ensuring adequate supplies for daily operations
- Lead the overall energy and guest experience of the space by actively shaping and maintaining the bar’s vibe
- Create and manage bartending team schedules to support operational needs
- Provide guidance and day-to-day support to bartending staff to ensure consistent service and adherence to standards
- Provide friendly, efficient bar service in a guest-focused environment
- Prepare and serve menu beverages using established recipes and standards to maintain consistency and quality
- Check valid identification and ensure all alcohol service meets legal requirements and company guidelines
- Operate the point-of-sale (POS) systems accurately and efficiently, including handling payments, and closing out tabs in accordance with cash handling procedures
- Create welcoming interactions with travelers and local guests
- Support bar setup, restocking, and breakdown as needed
- Assist with special programming such as live music, themed nights, and seasonal events
- Occasionally support and cover banquet events as needed
- Maintain a clean, safe, and organized bar area in accordance with health and safety standards
Requirements
- 2+ years of bartending, event, or hospitality service experience preferred
- Excellent customer service and interpersonal skills
- Comfortable engaging with an international guest community
- Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented
- Able to work in a fast-paced service environment
- Evening, weekend, and holiday availability required
- ServSafe or Food Handler’s Certificate helpful but not required
- Ability to stand and move throughout the bar area for extended periods of time
- Frequent use of hands and arms to prepare and serve beverages, operate equipment, and handle transactions
- Ability to lift and carry items such as beverage cases and supplies (up to 30 pounds)
- Ability to reach, bend, and stoop in a fast-paced, active work environment
- Ability to communicate clearly with guests and team members in a moderate to loud environment
- Visual ability to read menus, labels, screens, and point-of-sale systems
Skills
- Bartending
- Inventory management
- Scheduling
- Team leadership
- Customer service
- Interpersonal skills
- POS systems operation
- Cash handling
Location
- New York City
Work Type
- Full Time
- Evening and weekend availability required
Experience Level
- 2+ years of bartending, event, or hospitality service experience preferred
Salary/Compensations
- $20-23 per hour + tips
Benefits
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Disability
- Vacation
- Sick leave
- 403b with company match
- Free stays at other HI USA hostels (subject to availability)
- On-the-job training
- Opportunities for growth within HI USA
- Friendly and inclusive work environment
- Discounts on hundreds of brands
About the Company
- HI USA is a nonprofit organization that helps people, especially the young, travel on a budget to foster a greater understanding of the world and its people through affordable travel opportunities.
Equal Opportunity
- At HI USA, we celebrate diversity and welcome individuals of all backgrounds.
