Job Overview

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Employment Type

Part-time
Seasonal
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Compensation

Hourly
Exact $15.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Weekend Shifts
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Benefits

competitive hourly wage
Tips
Opportunity for rehire
Advancement opportunities
Experience at iconic venue

Job Description

The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre, located on the scenic Detroit riverfront in Michigan, stands as one of Detroit's premier outdoor entertainment destinations. With a seating capacity of 6,000 guests, this iconic venue hosts 40 to 50 highly anticipated events from May through early September each year, attracting hundreds of thousands of music fans and concert-goers during the summer season. The amphitheatre is known for delivering world-class live entertainment experiences featuring a diverse range of concerts and performances by well-known artists. This vibrant outdoor venue has become central to Detroit's cultural scene, contributing significantly to the city's reputation as a growing hub for music and arts entertainment.

Operating within this dynamic and lively environment is the Seasonal Bartender role, which The Right Productions, Inc. manages on behalf of the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre. This is a seasonal, part-time, and event-based position running from May to early September, aligned specifically with the concert calendar, which can include evenings, weekends, and occasionally weekday events. Compensation starts at a competitive $15 per hour plus tips, making it an attractive opportunity for individuals who enjoy working in fast-paced, social, and music-oriented environments.

As a Seasonal Bartender, you will play a crucial role in enhancing the guest experience by providing efficient, friendly, and responsible beverage service throughout each event. This position requires working under high-volume conditions typical of large-scale concert venues, where maintaining composure, speed, and professionalism is essential. Bartenders at the Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre not only serve beverages but also represent the venue's hospitality standards by ensuring that all safety and legal requirements regarding alcohol service are strictly adhered to.

Bartenders are expected to arrive early to set up and prepare the bar, organize stock, verify inventory, and ensure all equipment is clean and operational before doors open. Throughout the event, bartenders will greet guests, take and fulfill drink orders accurately, and provide knowledgeable recommendations on beer, wine, and cocktails. Handling transaction processes with responsibility and accuracy using Point-of-Sale (POS) systems is an essential aspect of the role.

The role also emphasizes responsible alcohol service, including verifying guest identification, monitoring guest consumption, and refusing service to intoxicated patrons while maintaining professionalism. Compliance with Michigan Liquor Control Commission regulations and venue policies is mandatory. Certified training such as current TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol certification is required or must be obtained prior to the first shift.

Maintaining a clean, organized, and sanitary bar area throughout the event and during post-event breakdowns is equally important. Teamwork and strong communication skills are key, as bartenders must work with barbacks, floor staff, and management to ensure smooth service flow and promptly address any inventory or equipment issues that arise during events.

Working at one of Detroit's most iconic entertainment venues offers employees an exciting and rewarding experience. The seasonal bartender position at Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre is ideal for individuals who are passionate about music, enjoy a fast-paced environment, and can deliver exceptional service under pressure. Employees gain valuable experience that can lead to opportunities for rehire and advancement in future summer seasons, making it a fulfilling seasonal career choice for hospitality professionals.

Job Requirements

  • minimum 2 years bartending experience in a high-volume setting
  • must be 21 years or older
  • current or ability to obtain responsible alcohol service certification before first event
  • proficiency in POS and cash handling
  • ability to handle fast-paced, high-volume work
  • strong communication skills
  • ability to stand for long hours and lift heavy items
  • reliable transportation for late shifts
  • availability evenings, weekends, and holidays throughout season

Job Qualifications

  • minimum 2 years bartending experience in high-volume bar, restaurant, stadium, arena, or event venue
  • must be 21 years of age or older
  • current and valid TIPS, ServSafe Alcohol, or equivalent responsible alcohol service certification or ability to obtain prior to first shift
  • proficiency with POS systems and cash handling
  • ability to work efficiently and maintain composure under high-volume, fast-paced conditions
  • strong communication skills and guest-focused attitude
  • ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs
  • reliable transportation and availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by event schedule
  • prior experience in outdoor amphitheatre, stadium, or large-scale concert venue preferred
  • familiarity with Michigan Liquor Control Commission regulations preferred
  • experience with mobile or cashless payment platforms preferred
  • barback or bar management experience is a plus

Job Duties

  • arrive at designated call time to set up bar
  • stock and organize bar with beer, wine, spirits, mixers, garnishes, and supplies
  • verify inventory levels and report shortages to bar manager before service
  • ensure all equipment is clean, operational, and ready for service
  • complete pre-shift side work including ice bins, bar mats, and speed wells
  • greet guests promptly, take drink orders accurately, and deliver beverages efficiently
  • provide knowledgeable recommendations on beer, wine, and cocktails
  • maintain a positive and welcoming bar environment throughout event
  • handle high-volume rushes with composure prioritizing speed without sacrificing accuracy
  • process transactions accurately using POS system, handle cash and card payments responsibly
  • verify guest identification for alcohol purchases and strictly enforce legal drinking age
  • monitor guest consumption and identify signs of intoxication
  • refuse service to visibly intoxicated guests respectfully and notify supervisor immediately
  • adhere to Michigan Liquor Control Commission regulations and venue alcohol policies
  • maintain current responsible beverage service certification or complete training prior to first event
  • keep bar area clean, organized, and presentable throughout event
  • wipe down surfaces, restock supplies, and remove empty bottles and glassware continuously
  • maintain proper food safety and sanitation standards including temperature control for perishable items
  • complete post-event breakdown such as drain ice bins, clean taps and equipment, secure inventory, and leave bar in show-ready condition
  • work collaboratively with bartenders, barbacks, and floor staff to maintain service flow
  • communicate inventory needs, equipment issues, and guest concerns to bar manager promptly
  • attend all pre-event briefings and trainings
  • represent venue professionally maintaining clean uniform and courteous demeanor

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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