Job Description – Server/Bartender
Position Title: Server/Bartender
Department: Food & Beverage
Reports To: Food & Beverage Manager, Food and Beverage Assistant Manager
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Location: Belmont
Position Summary
The Bartender/Server is responsible for delivering exceptional food and beverage service to Chicago Yacht Club members and guests at the Belmont location. This hybrid role requires proficiency in both bartending and full-service table service within the à la carte dining environment.
This team member will prepare and serve beverages behind the bar while also providing attentive, professional table service as assigned. The ideal candidate demonstrates strong beverage knowledge, menu expertise, attention to detail, and a commitment to creating a personalized, member-focused experience while upholding all Club standards, policies, and legal regulations.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Beverage & Bar Service
- Prepare, mix, and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages accurately and according to Club recipes and portion standards.
- Maintain consistent drink quality, presentation, and service timing.
- Recommend cocktails, wine, beer, and beverage pairings aligned with menu offerings and member preferences.
- Monitor alcohol consumption and practice responsible alcohol service in compliance with Club policies and state laws.
- Maintain awareness of member preferences and special requests.
Table Service & Dining Room Responsibilities
- Greet and acknowledge members and guests promptly and warmly.
- Demonstrate thorough knowledge of menus, daily specials, ingredients, preparation methods, and beverage offerings.
- Take accurate food and beverage orders and enter them into the POS system.
- Serve courses in proper sequence and check back to ensure guest satisfaction.
- Present dessert menus and offer coffee and after-dinner beverages.
- Clear, clean, and reset tables efficiently.
- Thank members and guests and invite them to return.
Member Transactions & Club Procedures
- Accurately ring all food and beverage transactions under the correct member ID in the POS system.
- Ensure proper use of member flags in accordance with Chicago Yacht Club procedures.
- Handle cash and credit card transactions responsibly and accurately.
Operations & Organization
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of bar areas, dining rooms, service stations, and storage areas.
- Restock liquor, beer, wine, garnishes, glassware, and service supplies as needed.
- Perform opening, side work, and closing duties including cleaning, securing inventory, and completing required checklists.
- Assist barbacks or support staff as needed to ensure efficient operations.
- Support team members during high-volume periods and Club events.
Professional Standards & Team Support
- Maintain a polished, professional appearance in accordance with CYC uniform standards.
- Attend pre-shift lineups, staff meetings, and required training sessions.
- Comply with all food safety, sanitation, allergen, and alcohol service regulations.
- Communicate member feedback or concerns to management promptly.
- Support a respectful, positive, and team-oriented work environment.
- Perform additional duties as assigned by management.
Standards of Conduct
- Maintain professionalism, punctuality, and reliability.
- Uphold Chicago Yacht Club values, hospitality standards, and confidentiality.
- Treat members, guests, and colleagues with courtesy and respect.
- Follow all Club policies and legal regulations regarding food and alcohol service.
Culture & Teamwork Expectations
All Chicago Yacht Club employees are expected to contribute to a culture of care, collaboration, and excellence. Employees may be asked to assist other departments as business needs require. During downtime, employees are expected to proactively support operations to ensure exceptional service for members and guests.
Qualifications
- Previous bartending and serving experience required; private club experience preferred.
- Strong knowledge of cocktails, spirits, wine, beer, and basic mixology.
- Ability to multitask and transition between bar and table service seamlessly.
- Excellent communication, hospitality, and interpersonal skills.
- Professional demeanor with a member-first mindset.
- Ability to remain organized and composed in a fast-paced environment.
- Flexible availability including evenings, weekends, holidays, and Club events.
Licenses & Certifications
- BASSET (or equivalent alcohol service certification) required.
- Food Handler/Food Safety certification required.
- Allergen awareness certification preferred.
- Must be 21 years of age or older.
- Any additional certifications as required by CYC leadership, HR, or the CYC Board.
Job Knowledge & Core Competencies
- Knowledge of standard drink recipes, wine service, and proper service etiquette.
- Familiarity with POS systems preferred.
- Understanding of full-service dining sequence and bar operations.
- Strong attention to detail and service excellence.
- Ability to follow Club policies and procedures consistently.
- Ability to perform assigned roles during emergency situations.
Physical Demands & Work Environment
- Stand and walk for extended periods (6–10 hours).
- Bend, reach, twist, stoop, kneel, and perform repetitive motions.
- Lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds, including trays and bar inventory.
- Work in a fast-paced, high-traffic, hot, humid, and occasionally noisy environment.
- Navigate safely through dining and bar service areas, including stairs when applicable.
