Bartender

Busboys and Poets is a vibrant and inclusive hospitality company operating nine multi-concept restaurant, bar, event, and bookstore spaces across Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia. Known for its unique blend of culinary and cultural experiences, Busboys and Poets is more than just a restaurant. It serves as a community hub where people gather to enjoy delicious food and drinks, engaging conversation, and creative events. The company prides itself on cultivating an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity and promotes social justice. Each venue offers a distinct atmosphere, combining comfort with innovation and a strong commitment to excellent service. Employees find themselves part of a mission-driven team that values authenticity, respect, and continuous growth.

The bartender position at Busboys and Poets offers an exciting opportunity to work in a fast-paced and guest-focused team environment. As a bartender, you will contribute to delivering outstanding guest experiences by skillfully preparing beverages and engaging with customers in a warm and welcoming manner. This role demands a passion for hospitality, strong communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic setting where teamwork and service excellence are paramount. Compensation for bartenders is competitive, with top performers earning between $25 and $30 per hour and a guaranteed minimum of $17.50 per hour, including a base pay of $10 per hour plus tips. This flexible role offers variable hours, allowing for a work schedule that fits diverse lifestyles and commitments. Whether you’re seeking to enhance your bartending skills, develop your career in the hospitality industry, or simply enjoy the camaraderie of a supportive team, this position provides numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Busboys and Poets is dedicated to employee well-being, offering an attractive benefits package encompassing multiple health insurance options, dental and vision coverage, a 401(k) retirement plan with employer matching contributions, sick leave, paid parental leave, life insurance, and pet insurance. The company’s commitment to workplace diversity is evident, with a majority of the workforce identifying as people of color and women, alongside representation from individuals with disabilities and diverse cultural, ethnic, and religious backgrounds. This inclusive culture supports employees in bringing their authentic selves to work, fostering a respectful and empowering environment.

Employees at Busboys and Poets benefit from a culture of promotion and advancement, with more than 60% of managers being promoted internally from line staff or front-of-house roles. Innovative use of technology supplements traditional hospitality service, including tech-forward training programs, a self-managed tip distribution system, and robust tools for event and inventory management. Additionally, the company emphasizes staff engagement through various initiatives like raffles, anniversary celebrations, dedicated communication platforms, blogs, and podcasts, ensuring that every team member feels valued and connected.

In the bartender role, you will be entrusted with daily bar setup, guiding guests through the menu with detailed knowledge, accurately taking orders, and cooperatively working with colleagues to surpass guest expectations. Responsibilities also include verifying legal age for alcohol consumption, mixing and preparing an array of drinks, providing exemplary customer service, maintaining cleanliness and sanitation standards, and supporting front-of-house staff during busy periods. This role offers a chance to be part of a passionate, hospitality-driven team in a welcoming, culturally rich environment that values growth, diversity, and community.