Tasting Room Lead

Tasting Room Lead Tierra Distilling Clarendon Hills, IL Job Details Part-time | Full-time From $20 an hour 1 hour ago Benefits Paid time off Employee discount Flexible schedule Referral program Qualifications Operations management Spirits experience Bar setup Mentoring Mixology ServSafe Alcohol Certification Cocktail experience Technical Proficiency Full Job Description Position Overview Tierra Distilling Co. is seeking a visionary Tasting Room Lead with a mastery of craft mixology and a passion for spirits education. You will be responsible for the creative direction of our cocktail program and the day-to-day management of the Tasting Room floor. This is a leadership role that requires a balance of high-level technical skill, staff mentorship, and meticulous inventory management. You are the primary storyteller for our spirits, ensuring every guest understands the "grain-to-glass" journey of our products.

Key Responsibilities Cocktail Program & Menu Innovation Seasonal Development:

Lead the creation and execution of rotating seasonal cocktail menus that highlight Tierra's spirits. This includes house-made bitters, infusions, and syrups.

Menu Engineering:

Design a balanced menu featuring elevated "supper club" classics alongside modern, inventive house signatures.

Spirit Education:

Develop "flight" programs and educational materials to guide guests through our different expressions and distillation techniques.

Training & Mixology Excellence Lead Trainer:

Standardize cocktail builds and techniques across the FOH team to ensure every drink is served with precision and speed.

Technical Workshops:

Conduct regular training sessions for staff on spirits knowledge, advanced bar techniques, and the history of the distillery.

Performance Coaching:

Assist the FOH Manager in monitoring staff efficiency, focusing on maintaining optimal staff-to-customer ratios during peak service hours.

Operations & Inventory Management Bar Inventory:

Maintain strict control over all Tasting Room spirits and supplies.

Merchandise Management:

Oversight of retail merchandise inventory, ensuring the retail area is well-stocked, organized, and visually appealing.

Operational Efficiency:

Ensure the TR operates within established labor cost targets and maintains high cleanliness standards for all bar equipment and guest areas.

Guest Experience & Environment Atmosphere Management:

Responsible for the "vibe" of the room—adjusting lighting, music, and service flow to maintain a sophisticated, Art Deco-influenced lounge environment.

Guest Relations:

Act as the face of the brand during service, handling guest inquiries, spirit tastings, and resolving any service issues with grace.

Event Support:

Partner with the FOH Manager to execute special events, spirit releases, and private lounge bookings.

Qualifications Experience:

3+ years of high-end craft cocktail experience, with at least 1 year in a leadership or Head Bartender capacity.

Technical Skill:

Advanced knowledge of mixology, classic cocktail structures, and spirits production.

Leadership:

Demonstrated ability to train others and maintain high standards under pressure.

Organizational Skills:

Proficiency in managing inventory systems, spreadsheets, and POS technology.

Physical:

Ability to stand for long shifts and lift up to 50 lbs (cases of spirits/kegs).

Pay:

From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

Employee discount Flexible schedule Paid time off Referral program

Work Location:

In person