REPORTS TO: Food & Beverage Manager

SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES: None
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt; Part-Time
DEPARTMENT: Audience Services
LOCATION: On-site, Knoxville, TN

JOB SUMMARY:

Our bartenders provide exceptional patron service at the Historic Tennessee Theatre by preparing and serving beverages and concessions in a fast-paced event environment. As a front-line representative of the Theatre, this position creates a welcoming experience for patrons while ensuring responsible alcohol service, accurate cash handling, and compliance with all policies and regulations. The ideal candidate is customer-focused, dependable, and able to thrive during high-volume events while upholding Tennessee Theatre's commitment to excellence.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Prepare and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages in accordance with Tennessee laws and Theatre policies.

• Provide exceptional customer service to patrons, guests, and artists.

• Verify guest age and monitor alcohol consumption to ensure responsible service.

• Accurately process cash and credit card transactions using the point-of-sale (POS) system.

• Maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked bar areas before, during, and after events.

• Set up and break down concession and bar locations for performances and special events.

• Monitor inventory levels and communicate restocking needs to management.

• Follow all health, safety, and sanitation standards.

• Resolve guest concerns professionally and escalate issues when necessary.

• Collaborate with front-of-house and food & beverage staff to ensure efficient event operations.

• Assist with crowd flow and guest navigation as needed.

• Uphold the Tennessee Theatre's standards of professionalism, hospitality, and patron service at all times.Attend required trainings and maintain any required alcohol service certifications.
• Perform additional duties as assigned in support of event and Audience Services operations.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES:

• Outstanding Customer Service: Ability to interact with patrons in a friendly, professional manner while creating a welcoming guest experience.
• Cash Handling & POS Systems: Ability to accurately process cash and credit card transactions using point-of-sale systems.
• Responsible Alcohol Service: Knowledge of alcohol laws, age verification procedures, and techniques for monitoring guest consumption.
• Problem Solving: Ability to address guest concerns, resolve service issues, and remain calm in fast-paced or challenging situations.
• Organization & Time Management: Ability to efficiently manage multiple orders, maintain inventory, and keep work areas clean and stocked during high-volume events.
• Communication & Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively with front-of-house, concessions, and event staff to support successful event operations.
• Health & Safety Compliance: Knowledge of food and beverage sanitation standards, workplace safety practices, and emergency procedures.

COMPETENCIES

• Adaptability: Thrives in a fast-paced event environment and adjusts quickly to changing service demands.
• Accountability: Demonstrates reliability, follows established procedures, and adheres to responsible alcohol service standards.
• Problem Solving: Resolves guest concerns effectively while maintaining professionalism and patron satisfaction.
• Composure: Remains calm and professional during high-volume events, challenging guest interactions, and unexpected situations.
• Integrity: Exercises sound judgment, complies with all alcohol service regulations, and handles transactions honestly and responsibly.
• Initiative: Anticipates guest needs, maintains bar readiness, and proactively identifies opportunities to improve service.
  

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Flexible Schedule: Ability to maintain irregular and extended working hours, including evenings, weekends and holidays, as directed by supervisor to fulfill needs of Theatre.
• Standing and Walking: Ability to manage extended periods of standing and walking.
• Lifting and Carrying: Ability to lift and carry equipment, signage, or other materials.
• Physical Endurance: Ability to withstand long events, especially during setup, execution, and teardown. Stamina is essential to handle the demands of extended work hours. Ability to lift 50 lbs.
• Mobility and Dexterity: Employee is regularly required to stand; walk, use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls. Ability to enter text or data into a computer or other machine by means of a traditional keyboard.
• Hearing: Ability to hear clearly in different environments, including in person, by phone, and over other sounds to understand, and distinguish speech and/or other sounds.
• Vision: Clarity of vision at approximately 20 inches or less, including use of computers.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience: Previous bartending, concessions, hospitality, food and beverage, or customer service experience preferred.
• Certifications: Ability to obtain and maintain any required alcohol service certification in accordance with state and local regulations.
  

ABOUT THE TENNESSEE THEATRE

The Tennessee Theatre is an ornate, 1600-seat historic movie palace fully renovated into a multi-purpose performing arts venue. With over 220 booked days, it hosts more than 175 events annually, ranging from touring concerts, comedy, and Broadway; resident symphony, opera, and jazz performances; classic movies; children and family events; patron events; and private rental events. It is a treasured architectural landmark, a cultural cornerstone of the region, and an entertainment destination beloved by generations of audiences. The HTTF mission is to preserve, maintain, and operate the Official State Theatre of Tennessee as an arts and entertainment cornerstone for the cultural enrichment and enjoyment of all.

The Theatre has recently acquired and renovated a neighboring building (24,000 sf spread over seven levels) that is physically connected to the Theatre building and used primarily to enhance and expand Theatre programming (pre- and post-show receptions, private intermission lounges, rehearsal and educational spaces, and more) as well as additional private rental use. The new spaces are complete, and full activation of this building is expected in 4Q 2026.

The Historic Tennessee Theatre Foundation is committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for all individuals. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to fostering an atmosphere free from discrimination. We believe this enriches our organization and enhances our ability to fulfill our mission. Discrimination in any form is not tolerated, and we encourage all qualified individuals to apply for opportunities with us.

DISCLAIMER: This job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned at any time with or without notice. This job description does not in any way constitute a contract or guarantee of employment.