Position: Cannonball Arts Bar Manager/Lead Bartender
Reporting To: General Manager + Beverage Director
Schedule: Part-Time, Hourly (Primarily Show-Based + Admin Schedule)
Rate: $38/hour
Job Overview:
Cannonball Arts is a new 2,000+ capacity live music venue in downtown Seattle. The Bar Manager plays a key operational role, working closely with the Beverage Director and General Manager to launch and lead front-of-house bar operations, manage staff, and ensure efficient, high-quality service during live events. This role combines on-the-ground leadership with logistical and administrative support to uphold a consistent, service-forward guest experience.
The ideal candidate is a hands-on bar professional with a track record of managing high-volume service, leading strong teams, and aligning operations with sales goals and compliance standards.
This is a part-time position with a variable schedule, heavily focused on nights and weekends. Pre-opening responsibilities include assisting with bar setup, hiring and training staff, developing the menu with the Beverage Director, and building SOPs in collaboration with the GM.
Key Responsibilities:
Bar Operations Management
- Collaborate with the Beverage Director and General Manager to implement bar setup and service plans for each event.
- Oversee all aspects of FOH bar execution, including cleanliness, customer interaction, and service flow.
- Support systems and protocols that maintain efficiency and speed of service, especially during peak hours.
- Ensure bars are prepped, stocked, and staffed appropriately in advance of doors opening.
- Maintain consistency in drink quality, pricing presentation, and customer experience across all bar locations.
- Ensure functionality of all bar equipment and POS systems before and during events.
Staff Management & Training
- Assist in hiring, training, and managing bartenders and bar backs.
- Schedule staff for events based on expected attendance, ensuring sufficient coverage for high-capacity nights.
- Lead pre-shift meetings to communicate expectations, specials, and service goals to the bar team.
- Provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback to ensure high levels of service and staff efficiency.
- Address staff issues or conflicts promptly, maintaining a professional and positive working environment.
Inventory & Cost Control
- Manage all bar inventory, including ordering, tracking, and controlling liquor, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Work with vendors to negotiate the best pricing for alcohol and bar supplies.
- Monitor inventory usage during events and conduct regular stock checks to minimize waste and over-pouring.
- Implement inventory control measures to prevent loss, theft, and wastage.
- Ensure that all beverages are priced appropriately to maintain profitability while offering value to patrons.
Customer Experience & Service Excellence
- Ensure that all patrons experience exceptional service, from quick and accurate drink orders to a friendly and professional demeanor from staff.
- Foster a fun, energetic atmosphere that enhances the overall club experience for guests.
- Respond to customer complaints or issues quickly, ensuring a positive outcome and maintaining the venue's reputation.
- Gather and analyze customer feedback related to the bar service to identify areas for improvement.
Compliance & Safety
- Ensure that all bar operations comply with local and state alcohol laws, including responsible alcohol service and ID verification.
- Train staff on recognizing intoxicated patrons and handling them appropriately, including when to stop service.
- Maintain a clean and safe working environment, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Oversee proper sanitation practices, ensuring that bar equipment and surfaces are regularly cleaned and sanitized.
Financial Accountability
- Track and report on bar revenue, costs, and profitability for each event.
- Develop and implement strategies to increase sales
- Manage daily cash handling procedures, ensuring all transactions are recorded accurately and securely.
- Monitor bar performance metrics, identifying areas to improve sales, reduce costs, or increase efficiency.
- Work closely with the GM to achieve overall financial goals for the venue.
Collaboration with Management & Events
- Work with the General Manager and Private Events Sales Team to plan bar service for events and concerts.
- Attend management meetings to provide updates on bar performance and contribute ideas for improving service and profitability.
- Coordinate with the marketing team to create promotional drinks or specials for upcoming events and concerts.
Desired Qualifications:
- 3-5+ years of experience managing bar operations in a high-volume setting such as a nightclub, concert venue, or busy restaurant
- Proven ability to lead large FOH bar teams in fast-paced, high-pressure environments
- Strong knowledge of bar operations, mixology, and Washington State alcohol service laws
- Demonstrated experience with staff supervision, training, and conflict resolution
- Skilled in inventory management, vendor negotiation, and cost control
- Proficiency with POS systems, cash handling, and event-based financial reporting'
- MAST certification required
- Able to work a flexible, event-driven schedule, including long shifts (2-16 hours), late nights, and weekends
- Physically able to lift 40+ pounds repeatedly
- Reliable transportation or ability to commute to downtown Seattle at any hour
- Experience with VIP service, bottle service, or EDM/nightlife environments a plus
- Familiarity with the Seattle bar and nightlife scene preferred
How to Apply:
Send a resumé and short cover letter to with the subject line "Bar Manager - Your Name " . Position open until filled.
We are hiring. See all open positions at Cannonball Arts here: