Bartender

SUMMARY:
The Bartender is responsible for delivering an exceptional five-star beverage experience by preparing and serving a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages while providing outstanding guest service. The successful candidate will maintain the highest standards of cleanliness, professionalism, and product knowledge, ensuring every guest enjoys a memorable experience in a luxury safari lodge environment. This reflects the expectations commonly seen for luxury lodge bartender roles in the Pongola area.
 
Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and serve cocktails, mocktails, wines, beers, spirits, coffees, and specialty beverages to five-star standards.
• Provide warm, friendly, and professional service to all guests.
• Recommend beverages based on guest preferences and menu pairings.
• Maintain excellent knowledge of cocktails, wines, spirits, and premium beverages.
• Ensure the bar is clean, fully stocked, and well-presented throughout service.
• Set up and break down the bar before and after each shift.
• Assist with beverage service during restaurant service, boma dinners, bush dinners, private functions, and special events.
• Monitor beverage stock levels and report shortages promptly.
• Participate in stock takes, stock rotation, and inventory control.
• Minimise wastage and breakages while ensuring proper storage of beverages.
• Operate the POS system accurately and process guest transactions where required.
• Follow all food safety, hygiene, and responsible alcohol service regulations.
• Maintain accurate records of stock movement where required.
• Work closely with the kitchen and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless guest service.
• Handle guest requests, complaints, and special occasions professionally.
• Ensure compliance with company policies and standard operating procedures.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirements

• Grade 12 (Matric).
• Hospitality qualification advantageous.
• Minimum of 2 years' experience as a bartender in a luxury lodge, hotel, or fine dining establishment.
• Previous experience in a five-star safari lodge environment is advantageous.
• Knowledge of cocktails, wines, whiskies, premium spirits, beers, and coffee preparation.
• Computer literacy and POS system experience.
• Valid driver's licence advantageous.
• Willingness to work shifts, weekends, public holidays, and flexible hours.
• Comfortable living and working in a remote lodge environment.

• Excellent cocktail preparation and mixology skills.
• Strong wine and beverage knowledge.
• Outstanding guest service and communication skills.
• Strong organisational and multitasking abilities.
• Stock control and inventory management.
• Cash handling and POS operation.
• Food safety and hygiene knowledge.
• Ability to work calmly under pressure.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Professional grooming and presentation.

• Friendly and outgoing personality.
• Passion for hospitality and guest satisfaction.
• Honest and trustworthy.
• Positive attitude.
• Team player.
• Reliable and punctual.
• Flexible and adaptable.
• High level of professionalism.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to build rapport with guests.

• Live-in position.
• Shift work, including evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
• Outdoor and indoor work within a luxury safari lodge.
• Standing for extended periods.
• Occasional lifting of beverage stock and equipment.
• Interaction with international and local guests in a fast-paced hospitality environment.