Founding Mixologist, Zero-Proof Beverage Program

Solace: Elixir Bar & Lounge is an innovative and intimate establishment located in the vibrant Lawrenceville neighborhood of Pittsburgh, PA. As Pittsburgh's first zero-proof elixir bar and lounge, Solace is dedicated to redefining the beverage experience by focusing exclusively on non-alcoholic offerings crafted with the same care and precision found in traditional cocktail bars. This family-owned business is committed to creating unique, botanical-based beverages that promote well-being and social enjoyment without the effects of alcohol. By exploring ingredients like non-alcoholic spirits, aperitifs, ready-to-drink (RTD) bases, teas, shrubs, syrups, tinctures, and seasonal culinary elements, Solace aims to establish a new standard for zero-proof hospitality in the region.

The founding mixologist and lead bartender position at Solace offers an exciting opportunity for passionate professionals to help shape and launch this groundbreaking venue. With a clear beverage philosophy already in place, the role is centered around sharpening, testing, and executing an original menu that is designed around how guests want to feel—whether grounded, elevated, social, clear-headed, at ease, bright, or enjoying a nightcap. The pre-opening phase involves critical activities such as menu testing, batching, station setup, mock service, staff training, and establishing final operational standards.

Upon opening, the successful candidate will lead morning or evening beverage service shifts, preparing and serving cocktails, tea, coffee, traditional kava, and speciosa with consistency and flair. This role demands the ability to confidently introduce guests to unfamiliar botanical ingredients without overwhelming them, maintaining an approachable and knowledgeable presence throughout the service. Additionally, the lead bartender will be responsible for ensuring all preparation, batching, restocking, point of sale flow, cleanliness, and opening and closing standards are met with precision. Safety protocols, portion control, and internal education guidelines are also integral aspects of this position.

This full-time position requires availability for five shifts per week, including weekends and occasional events, with specific AM and PM shifts to be finalized as the opening approaches. The compensation package is competitive, reflecting the importance of this founding role. Hourly wages range from $20 to $24 per hour depending on experience, supplemented by estimated tips between $200 and $500 weekly through a shared tip pool. Additional benefits include a $2,500 retention bonus after six months, up to $1,000 annual reimbursement for professional development, wellness reimbursements up to $50 monthly, paid pre-opening training including research and development sessions, complimentary beverages during shifts according to house guidelines, and staff discounts on drinks and retail items.

This position offers a unique chance to literally put your name on the opening menu, work closely with the founding team, and become an integral part of Pittsburgh's pioneering zero-proof beverage scene. Candidates should possess a strong foundation in cocktail craft with a nuanced understanding of balance, dilution, texture, aroma, glassware, garnish, and presentation. Familiarity with the zero-proof category is essential, including knowledge of non-alcoholic spirits, functional botanicals, apertifs, and various traditional beverages such as kava and speciosa. The role requires a responsible approach to botanical ingredients without the expectation of clinical herbalist training.

Ideal applicants also need to have a keen sense of functional beverage design—creating drinks that cater to the moment a guest is selecting rather than solely focusing on flavor—paired with disciplined execution skills to maintain consistency under pressure, efficient preparation, clean workspaces, waste reduction, and effective close-down procedures. Comfort with an early-stage environment that continues to evolve, physical stamina to manage active service including stairs and lifts up to 50 lbs, and a local presence or willingness to relocate to Pittsburgh before the launch are also necessary.

Overall, this founding mixologist and lead bartender role at Solace represents an unparalleled opportunity for beverage professionals looking to pioneer the future of non-alcoholic hospitality in an inclusive, innovative, and supportive setting.