Head Bartender

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
Hourly
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Compensation

Hourly
Range $15.00 - $20.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
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Benefits

Paid Time Off
Health Insurance
Wellness perks
daily staff meals
Dining Discounts
growth opportunities

Job Description

Cana is a Brazilian cocktail bar and restaurant deeply rooted in the vibrant spirit and culture of South America. Situated in the heart of the lively Adams Morgan neighborhood in Washington, D.C., Cana is a proud part of the Unordinary Hospitality Group, known for its commitment to delivering exceptional dining and drinking experiences. The establishment celebrates the soul of Brazil through its authentic use of cachaça, the key ingredient in the iconic caipirinhas, as well as a menu that blends traditional Brazilian culinary heritage with contemporary expressions. The ambiance at Cana is designed to transport guests to the energetic and warm environment of Brazil, offering a unique blend of cultural authenticity and modern hospitality excellence. As a standout destination for those seeking quality cocktails and vibrant flavors, Cana has built a reputation for craftsmanship, creativity, and community focus within the D.C. hospitality scene.

The role of Head Bartender at Cana is a leadership position that combines creativity, operational expertise, and a passion for hospitality. This position offers a distinctive opportunity for someone looking to not only manage but also own and evolve the entire bar program. The Head Bartender is expected to be the energetic and professional face of Cana’s bar, leading the team with warmth, integrity, and high standards. Responsibilities extend beyond typical management duties, encompassing the continuous development and refinement of the cocktail program in collaboration with ownership and culinary leadership. The role also demands oversight of daily bar operations including service flow, mise en place, and team dynamics, ensuring efficiency and a high level of guest satisfaction every night.

As the Head Bartender, importance is placed on both operational excellence and team culture. This includes leading training and development efforts for the bar staff to maintain high execution standards and promoting a hospitable atmosphere. The role also entails managing bar systems related to cleanliness, safety, organization, and inventory control, in coordination with upper management. Additionally, the Head Bartender represents Cana at industry events and plays an active role in fostering relationships within the broader D.C. bar community. This position is perfect for a highly motivated individual with strong leadership skills, a solid background in high-volume, quality-focused bar environments, and a genuine love for the craft of bartending and the hospitality industry. Competitive compensation is offered in a flexible structure, either hourly plus tip share or salaried, commensurate with experience. Benefits include paid time off, health insurance, wellness perks, daily staff meals, and access to dining discounts across all Unordinary Hospitality properties, along with opportunities for career growth within the group. This is an exceptional chance to lead a bar program with soul, creativity, and connection in one of D.C.’s most dynamic neighborhoods.

Job Requirements

  • 2+ years as a bar manager or senior bartender in a high-volume, quality-driven environment
  • strong command of spirits, cocktail technique, and overall bar operations
  • proven leadership skills and a passion for team development
  • excellent communication, organization, and time management
  • a deep love of hospitality and an instinct for creating exceptional guest experiences
  • comfort in a high-energy, fast-paced service setting

Job Qualifications

  • 2+ years as a bar manager or senior bartender in a high-volume, quality-driven environment
  • strong command of spirits, cocktail technique, and overall bar operations
  • proven leadership skills and a passion for team development
  • excellent communication, organization, and time management
  • a deep love of hospitality and an instinct for creating exceptional guest experiences
  • comfort in a high-energy, fast-paced service setting
  • ties to the D.C. bar community are a strong plus
  • bilingual is a bonus, not a requirement

Job Duties

  • be the face and energy of Cana’s bar - leading with professionalism, warmth, and integrity
  • oversee daily bar operations: service flow, mise en place, team dynamics, and culture
  • drive the evolution of our cocktail program in collaboration with ownership and culinary leadership
  • lead training and development for the bar team, setting and maintaining high standards of execution and hospitality
  • ensure all bar systems meet standards for cleanliness, safety, organization, and efficiency
  • manage scheduling, inventory, purchasing, and cost controls in partnership with upper management
  • represent Cana at industry events and help build connections in the broader D.C. hospitality scene

Job Criteria

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)


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