Bartending Event Coordinator

Company: Drinks On Me Chicago (DOMC)

Reports to: Owner / General Manager

Job Category: Hourly, Part-Time + Commission

Location: Chicago, IL (Local Travel Required)

Company Overview

Drinks On Me Chicago (DOMC) is a professional bartending company dedicated to delivering tailored, high-quality bar service for corporate functions, private gatherings, and large-scale events. Our team brings industry expertise, attention to detail, and hospitality excellence to every event, offering curated beverage packages and craft cocktail experiences for discerning clients throughout the Chicago area.

Position Summary

The Bartending Event Coordinator is a key client-facing role responsible for planning, presenting, and executing DOMC’s bar services across a wide range of events. This position requires a balance of hospitality experience, operational coordination, and beverage expertise. The ideal candidate will have a background in bartending or catering, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple events from inquiry to execution.

In addition to event coordination duties, this role will lead the development of custom bar menus, recommend appropriate beer, wine, spirits, and cocktail options, and create and cost batch cocktail recipes for large groups.

Key Responsibilities

Client Services & Event Coordination

Guide clients through beverage service options, assisting with selections and customizing bar packages to align with event needs and budgets.

Coordinate all pre-event logistics, including staffing, inventory, equipment, and timelines.

Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned events, ensuring a seamless client experience from initial inquiry through post-event follow-up.

Maintain accurate documentation of event details using internal systems (CRM, planning tools, checklists, etc.).

Beverage Development & Menu Planning

Create tailored bar menus and beverage offerings based on client preferences, event themes, and guest counts.

Recommend and source appropriate beer, wine, and spirits for client events based on quality, value, and occasion.

Develop, cost, and document batched cocktail recipes for large-format service to ensure consistency and profitability.

Collaborate with vendors and the DOMC leadership team to maintain a current knowledge base of industry trends, seasonal offerings, and premium selections.

Business Development & Relationship Management

Build and maintain strong relationships with new and repeat clients.

Represent DOMC at tastings, walk-throughs, and industry networking events.

Encourage referrals and contribute to DOMC’s reputation for excellence in professional bartending services.

Qualifications

2+ years of experience in bartending, catering, or event coordination

Strong working knowledge of beer, wine, spirits, and classic and contemporary cocktails

Proven experience in creating and costing batch cocktail recipes for events

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail

Comfortable using digital platforms for client management, quoting, and scheduling

Professional, polished demeanor with a client-first mindset

Must have reliable transportation and flexible availability (evenings and weekends required)

Illinois BASSET Certification (preferred or willingness to obtain)

Compensation Structure

Hourly Pay: $22–$25 per hour, based on experience

Commission: 5–10% on net revenue for events booked, managed, and executed

Bonuses: Available for exceeding event targets and successful client retention

Gratuity Opportunities: For select onsite events