Bartender

CO-OP Restaurant & Lounge, located within The Study at University City in Philadelphia, is seeking an experienced, engaging, and hospitality-driven Bartender to join our front-of-house team. This role delivers thoughtful beverage service, prepares cocktails with consistency and precision, and creates a welcoming experience for hotel guests, neighborhood regulars, and visitors to University City.

About the role

The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in classic cocktails and an appreciation for modern interpretations, seasonal ingredients, and evolving beverage trends. We look for someone who understands that great bartending is equal parts craft and hospitality—knowledgeable without being pretentious, attentive without being intrusive, and always focused on the guest experience.

Our caring and attentive associates reinforce our belief that guest service is our highest priority. We seek energetic, service-oriented individuals who take pride in their craft, enjoy connecting with people, and contribute positively to a collaborative restaurant environment.

About CO-OP Restaurant & Lounge

• Located within The Study at University City
• Approximately 120-seat restaurant and lounge
• Full-service breakfast, lunch, dinner, and bar operations
• Seasonal menus with a focus on Mid-Atlantic ingredients and flavors
• Integration with hotel operations and guest services
• Fast-paced environment serving hotel, university, corporate, and neighborhood guests

Responsibilities

• Provide warm, attentive, and efficient beverage service while creating an engaging and welcoming experience for guests
• Prepare classic and specialty cocktails accurately and consistently according to established recipes and standards
• Demonstrate a strong understanding of classic cocktail techniques while embracing thoughtful modern interpretations and seasonal beverage offerings
• Maintain current knowledge of spirits, cocktails, wine, beer, menu items, and beverage programs
• Guide guests through beverage selections and make thoughtful recommendations based on their preferences
• Maintain knowledge of menu ingredients and allergy considerations and communicate guest needs appropriately
• Monitor the guest experience and respond promptly and professionally to requests or concerns
• Properly handle guest checks, cash, credit card transactions, and hotel room charges
• Complete opening, closing, and ongoing side work including stocking, preparation, cleaning, polishing, and organization of the bar
• Monitor product and supply levels and communicate inventory or restocking needs to restaurant leadership
• Maintain a clean, organized, sanitary, and safe bar and service environment
• Follow responsible alcohol service practices and all applicable liquor laws and regulations
• Work collaboratively with servers, restaurant support, culinary team members, and hotel departments to provide seamless service
• Continue developing knowledge of cocktails, spirits, wine, beer, food, ingredients, techniques, and current beverage trends

Requirements

• Minimum of 2 years of bartending experience in an upscale casual, fine dining, hotel, or comparable restaurant environment preferred
• Strong knowledge of classic cocktails, spirits, wine, and beer, with an appreciation for modern interpretations, seasonal ingredients, and evolving beverage trends
• Ability to execute classic cocktails consistently while embracing thoughtful and contemporary approaches to beverage service
• Current RAMP certification or equivalent responsible alcohol service certification preferred
• Previous experience with restaurant POS systems and handling guest transactions preferred
• Friendly, engaging, and professional demeanor with a genuine passion for hospitality
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to remain composed, attentive, and service-focused during high-volume periods
• Ability to work effectively as part of a collaborative restaurant and hotel team
• Availability to work a flexible schedule based on business needs, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Proficiency in English required; a second language is a plus
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or otherwise move items weighing up to 40 pounds
• Ability to stand and remain active for extended periods

About Us

The Study at University City is a 212-room hotel located at the crossroads of the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University in the heart of University City in Philadelphia. Designed as a place of discovery and connection, the hotel blends thoughtful hospitality with contemporary residential-inspired guest rooms and welcoming public spaces. The property is home to CO-OP Restaurant & Lounge, a lively 120-seat restaurant and lounge known for spirited hospitality and seasonal menus. The hotel also features 7,000 square feet of meeting and event space, hosting university functions, corporate meetings, conferences, and private events supported by the culinary and food & beverage teams.

Benefits

Eligible full-time team members are offered a comprehensive benefits package including:

• Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Employee Assistance Program