Bar Manager / Lead Bartender

$75,000 to $85,000 DOE. Plus benefits.
Position Type: Full-Time

About Us:
The Ink Drinker is a small, independent bar designed for book lovers and beverage enthusiasts. We offer an intimate space with a focus on craft cocktails, N/A options, and an atmosphere designed for getting lost in your latest read.

Position Overview:

We’re looking for a Bar Manager / Lead Bartender to help us launch and lead a beverage program with character. This role combines creative authorship with operational oversight: you’ll be the primary architect of our cocktail and mocktail menu, drawing inspiration from literary works, genres, and iconic characters, while also managing inventory, ordering, prep systems, and bar staff.

Requirements:

  • 3+ years experience in a craft cocktail bar, with 1+ year in a leadership or bar manager role.

  • Proven creativity in both cocktail and zero-proof recipe development.

  • Strong organizational skills and comfort with spreadsheets, costing, and ordering.

  • Must have food handler’s card.

  • Must have MAST 12 permit.

 

Responsibilities:

Creative & Menu Development

  • Develop and maintain a rotating menu of seasonal craft cocktails and mocktails with a literary theme (e.g., drinks inspired by authors, novels, or genres).

  • Create housemade syrups, tinctures, infusions, and garnishes to support a unique and consistent beverage identity.

  • Work with ownership and the GM to align the drink program with brand identity and guest experience.

Bar Operations

  • Oversee day-to-day operations of the bar, including opening/closing procedures, cleanliness, and service standards.

  • Manage cost, ordering, receiving, and inventory for all alcoholic and non-alcoholic bar products.

  • Implement and track costing for each drink and ingredient.

  • Maintain relationships with distributors and vendors.

Leadership & Training

  • Hire, train, and mentor bartenders and barbacks on drink specs, service techniques, and prep standards.

  • Lead pre-shift meetings and ensure team is educated on menu items and bar ethos.

  • Model exceptional hospitality behind the bar during service shifts.

Benefits:

  • Medical, dental, vision insurance.

  • 401k with partial employer match.

  • PTO.

  • Paid sick leave.

To apply: fill out the brief form and attach a résumé on this page.