Job Summary

The Sommelier & Lead Bartender plays a key role in delivering a dynamic and elevated beverage experience within GMT -5, aligning with the Hard Rock Hotel brand and culture. This position combines expert-level bartending and cocktail execution with refined wine knowledge and service.

As the on-shift bar leader, this individual is responsible for maintaining excellence in cocktail preparation, wine service, and overall guest experience. The role includes coaching and supporting the bar team, ensuring consistency in execution, and acting as a champion of both the cocktail and wine programs.

This position is instrumental in creating memorable guest interactions through thoughtful recommendations, technical expertise, and engaging hospitality.

Hours of Work: This is an hourly position, with work hours that align with business needs and guest demand. The normal schedule will be Tuesday-Saturday PM shifts. This schedule could vary depending on business needs.

Job Duties Include (but are not limited to):

Guest Experience & Service

• Deliver exceptional, engaging, and personalized service at the bar and throughout the outlet
• Anticipate guest needs and provide knowledgeable recommendations on cocktails, wine, and food pairings
• Maintain strong guest relationships and resolve concerns promptly and professionally
• Uphold all steps of service for both bar-top and service well execution

Bartending & Mixology

• Execute classic and specialty cocktails with precision, consistency, and creativity
• Ensure all drinks meet established recipes, presentation standards, and quality expectations
• Manage both bar-top service and service well efficiently
• Maintain full knowledge of spirits, cocktails, beer, and non-alcoholic offerings
• Oversee mise en place, prep standards, and par levels

Sommelier & Wine Service

• Curate and elevate the wine experience through confident tableside service and storytelling
• Provide thoughtful wine recommendations and pairings to enhance the dining experience
• Maintain in-depth knowledge of the wine list, including varietals, regions, tasting notes, and pricing
• Properly present, open, and serve wine and champagne according to service standards
• Support ongoing development and evolution of the wine program in collaboration with leadership
• Assist with staff wine education and training to improve overall product knowledge

Leadership & Team Development

• Act as the on-shift leader for the bar team, ensuring smooth and efficient operations
• Coach, mentor, and support bartenders in real time to improve performance and consistency
• Lead pre-shift briefings, communicating priorities, menu updates, and service notes
• Support onboarding and training of new team members
• Foster a positive, collaborative, and high-performance team environment
• Model professionalism, accountability, and strong communication at all times

Operations & Standards

• Ensure cleanliness, organization, and readiness of the bar and service areas at all times
• Monitor cocktail consistency, speed of service, and overall execution
• Maintain full knowledge of POS systems (MICROS) and cash handling procedures
• Adhere to all liquor laws, health & safety standards, and hotel policies
• Complete opening, mid-shift, and closing duties as required
• Identify opportunities to improve workflow, efficiency, and guest satisfaction

Qualifications

• Sommelier Certification required (WSET level 3 may be accepted if you are enrolled in the introductory sommelier course with the court of master sommeliers)
• Minimum 2 years of bartending experience required
• Craft Cocktail/ Mixology experience required
• Fluency in English, both verbal and non-verbal
• Experience in bartending and cash handling
• Smart Serve certified
• Food Handlers certificate
• Ability to input and access information in the point of sales system

Physical Aspects of Position (include but are not limited to):

• Constant standing and walking throughout shift
• Occasional lifting up to 80lbs
• Occasional kneeling, pushing, pulling

Hard Rock Hotel London Ontario is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering a positive and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, national origin, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, veteran status, or any other status or characteristic protected by law.

Accommodations will be made available upon request for applicants with disabilities to enable them to participate in the selection process. If you require assistance or a reasonable accommodation in completing the application materials or any aspect of the selection process, please contact us at careers@hrhlondonontario.com.

Pay: $18.60-$20.60 per hour

Work Location: In person