Job Title: Bartender
Location: Durham
Reports To: Bar Manager / General Manager
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-Time
About Rio:
At Rio, we serve more than exceptional food — we serve an experience. As a vibrant Brazilian steakhouse, our energy flows from the kitchen to the bar, where handcrafted cocktails, premium spirits, and South American wines set the tone for celebration. The bar is a centrepiece of the Rio experience — dynamic, welcoming, and rooted in tradition.
We are looking for passionate, skilled, and service-driven Bartenders to join our team and bring the spirit of Brazil to life in every drink poured and every guest interaction.
Position Overview:
As a Bartender at Rio, you’ll be the face behind the bar — crafting traditional Brazilian cocktails like caipirinhas, curating memorable guest experiences, and maintaining the highest standards of service and professionalism. You’ll work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment where attention to detail, energy, and hospitality are key.
Key Responsibilities:
Craftsmanship & Beverage Execution
- Prepare and serve a full range of cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages to recipe specifications.
- Specialize in Brazilian favourites such as caipirinhas and regional cocktail variations.
- Ensure consistent taste, presentation, and timing for every drink served.
Guest Interaction & Service
- Provide engaging, friendly, and attentive service to guests at the bar and in the dining area.
- Create a welcoming atmosphere through conversation, product knowledge, and hospitality.
- Handle guest concerns or special requests with professionalism and efficiency.
Cleanliness & Bar Maintenance
- Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked bar before, during, and after shifts.
- Ensure proper sanitation and compliance with all health and safety standards.
- Clean bar equipment, tools, and glassware regularly throughout service.
Inventory & Accountability
- Assist with bar inventory and restocking of spirits, mixers, garnishes, and supplies.
- Monitor pour levels and product usage to minimize waste and maximize consistency.
- Follow cash handling and POS procedures accurately and responsibly.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with the front-of-house and kitchen teams to coordinate service and ensure timely delivery of drinks.
- Support barbacks and fellow bartenders during high-volume periods.
- Participate in ongoing training, menu tastings, and new cocktail development.
Qualifications:
- 1+ years of experience as a bartender in a fast-paced, upscale or high-volume restaurant or bar.
- Strong knowledge of classic cocktails, wine, spirits, and beer; familiarity with Brazilian drinks is a plus.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to multitask, remain calm under pressure, and deliver high-quality service.
- Must meet legal age requirements for alcohol service.
- Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
What We Offer:
- Competitive hourly wage + tips
- Flexible scheduling (full-time or part-time)
- Staff meals and employee dining discounts
- A vibrant, team-driven workplace rooted in culture and hospitality
- Training in Brazilian spirits, wine, and cocktail techniques
- Workplace pension
- Opportunities to grow into lead bartender or bar management roles
Pour with Passion. Serve with Soul. Join the Spirit of Rio.
If you’re a skilled bartender who thrives on energy, creativity, and connection — we invite you to be part of the experience at Rio.
Job Types: Full-time, Part-time
Pay: £12.71-£16.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Employee discount
Work Location: In person
