Food and Beverage Server

The Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre, located in Detroit, Michigan, is one of the city’s premier outdoor entertainment venues. Situated on the scenic Detroit riverfront, this amphitheatre boasts a capacity of 6,000 guests and hosts between 40 to 50 world-class concerts and live entertainment events each season, running from May through early September. Renowned for delivering memorable experiences to hundreds of thousands of fans annually, the venue prides itself on its vibrant atmosphere and exceptional guest service. The amphitheatre offers a premium concert experience, particularly in its lower level seated sections, where patrons can enjoy live performances with the convenience of attentive in-seat service. This creates a refined and comfortable environment that elevates the concert experience beyond the music alone.

The role of the Cocktail Server at Aretha Franklin Amphitheatre is essential to ensuring guests receive excellent beverage service throughout events. This is a seasonal, part-time position that aligns with the concert season, offering employment from May to early September 2026. The pay is competitive, starting at $15 per hour plus tips, recognizing the importance of providing outstanding guest service in a fast-paced, live concert setting. Cocktail Servers work directly with the Bar Manager and the Food & Beverage Manager and are responsible for servicing the lower level seated sections, delivering beverages directly to guests’ seats during concerts.

This position involves more than just taking and delivering drink orders. Cocktail Servers create a welcoming and polished presence, engaging with guests warmly to enhance their overall experience. The job requires mobility, as servers navigate crowded and uneven seating aisles while carrying loaded beverage trays. Responsibilities include processing payments via handheld POS devices, maintaining cleanliness in their service areas, and adhering strictly to Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) regulations and responsible alcohol service practices. Servers must verify identification, monitor guest consumption, and refuse service to intoxicated patrons when necessary, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for all attendees.

Beyond service duties, Cocktail Servers play a crucial role in pre-event setup, attending briefings to understand section assignments, beverage menus, and event-specific details. They also help maintain the cleanliness of their sections throughout events by collecting empty cups and trash, thus contributing to an orderly and pleasant venue atmosphere. Post-event responsibilities include cash reconciliation and returning service equipment. This role requires teamwork and professionalism, with open communication maintained among the bar team and fellow servers to ensure seamless service flow.

Ideal candidates are personable, service-oriented, and physically capable of standing, walking, and carrying trays weighing up to 25 pounds for extended periods in an active, high-energy concert environment that includes exposure to outdoor weather conditions typical of a Detroit summer. The position demands availability for evening, weekend, and some weekday shifts, with schedules linked strictly to the event calendar. The amphitheatre offers opportunities for rehire and advancement, making this an excellent role for those passionate about guest service and seeking a dynamic, event-based position at one of Detroit’s most iconic live entertainment venues.