Lead Mixologist

El Viejn is an innovative and exciting restaurant concept located at 9837 Mira Mesa Blvd, San Diego, CA 92131, dedicated to creating memorable experiences through exceptional cocktails and a vibrant atmosphere. Situated in one of San Diego's bustling neighborhoods, El Viejn has quickly become a hotspot known for its creative and authentic approach to mixology, combining traditional and modern cocktail-making techniques to captivate guests and establish itself as a landmark bar within the community. The establishment prides itself on not just serving drinks but crafting experiences that foster connection, joy, and an inviting social environment for locals and visitors alike.

At El Viejn, the team believes that great cocktails are the heart of great experiences, and they are committed to building the bar that everyone will be talking about. The establishment offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $20.00 to $22.00 plus tips, dependent on experience, reflecting their commitment to attracting top talent to their innovative beverage program.

We are currently seeking a talented, motivated, and experienced Lead Mixologist to join our team and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our bar program. As the Lead Mixologist at El Viejn, you will be responsible for developing signature cocktails exclusive to our establishment, crafting seasonal drink menus that excite our patrons, and bringing fresh, imaginative ideas to life throughout the year. Your creativity and expertise will help elevate our beverage offerings to new heights, making our bar a destination for cocktail enthusiasts.

This role offers a unique opportunity for an individual passionate about mixology and leadership to make a meaningful impact. The Lead Mixologist will collaborate closely with the management team to standardize recipes for consistency, maintain high service and presentation standards, and train and mentor bartenders to uphold these standards. You will be instrumental in recruiting, interviewing, and leading the bar team by example during every shift, fostering a positive and professional work environment.

Beyond the creative aspects, you will also be responsible for the operational side of the bar, including maintaining accurate liquor, beer, and wine inventories; assisting with weekly beverage orders; and ensuring the bar remains organized, clean, and fully stocked. Compliance with California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) regulations and food safety requirements is vital to this role, ensuring all operations meet legal and safety standards.

This position is ideal for a highly organized, detail-oriented individual who thrives in a fast-paced environment, demonstrates strong leadership qualities, and is excited about the prospect of contributing to a growing and dynamic team. If you are passionate about cocktails, enjoy creating original drink experiences, and want the creative freedom to influence a signature bar program, El Viejn invites you to apply and join their journey to build one of San Diego's most talked-about bars. Your role will be essential in helping to build something unforgettable, offering you career growth opportunities and ongoing professional development as part of a supportive leadership team.