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: £12.21-£17.00 per hour
Work Location: In person