Lead Bartender & Barista

Lead Barista & Bartender (Hybrid)

Title: Lead Barista & Bartender (Hybrid) — Specialty Coffee & Craft Cocktails
Location: Newark, CA (Lion Market Center)
Compensation: Competitive Hourly (Depending on Experience) + High Tip Potential (Pooled House)

Who We Are: The Cedar Social is a unique "Third Place" for Newark. By day, we are a third-wave coffee bar serving turmeric lattes and breakfast burritos to tech commuters. By night, we evolve into a vibrant gastropub serving craft cocktails and small plates.

The Role: We are looking for a "Dual Threat" Beverage Professional to anchor our Swing and Evening shifts. You will navigate the critical transition from our morning "Cafe Vibe" to our evening "Gastropub Vibe." You must be able to serve a high-quality Latte to a late-afternoon remote worker while simultaneously shaking a Tamarind Whiskey Sour for an early happy hour guest. You are responsible for closing down the espresso station and ramping up the cocktail bar.

Why this role is different: You won't be stuck doing just one thing. You will manage the transition from our morning "Cafe Vibe" (Counter Service) to our evening "Lounge Vibe" (Full Service).

Key Responsibilities:

• Morning Elixirs: Execute a high-quality coffee program using commercial espresso equipment (e.g., La Marzocco/Simonelli). Prepare signature drinks like the Golden State Latte and Dirty Horchata Chai with latte art and consistent foam.

• Evening Libations: Bartend during happy hour and dinner, mixing signature cocktails like the Tamarind Whiskey Sour and Soju Mule.

• Ingredient Prep: Prepare house-made syrups (Turmeric-Cardamom, Chai Concentrate) and garnishes.

• Guest Experience: Act as a guide for our guests, explaining our fusion concept and recommending pairings (e.g., suggesting a Mexican Spiced Mocha to pair with Churro French Toast).

Requirements:

• Hybrid Experience: Minimum 1 year experience in both Specialty Coffee (dialing in espresso) AND Bartending (craft cocktails).

• Knowledge of espresso extraction (dialing in grind size, tamping).

• Familiarity with craft spirits and classic cocktail ratios.

• Shift Availability: Primary availability needed for Mid-Day Swing (e.g., 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM) or Closing Shifts (4:00 PM – Close).