Grand Rapids Downtown Market
Christkindl Markt Bar Back
About the Role
The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is home to the Christkindl Markt, one of the Midwest's premier holiday traditions, welcoming hundreds of thousands of guests each season.
We are seeking dependable, enthusiastic, and team-oriented Bar Backs to support daily bar and event operations. Bar Backs help ensure bars are stocked, organized, clean, and ready to provide exceptional guest service.
Working closely with bartenders, Bar Supervisors, and event staff, you'll transport products and supplies, monitor bar needs, and help keep operations running smoothly throughout the event.
Our team values integrity, collaboration, resourcefulness, respect, proactivity, and fun. We seek individuals who take initiative, communicate effectively, and enjoy contributing to a memorable guest experience.
Essential Responsibilities
Bar & Event Support
- Support bartenders and the Bar Supervisor by anticipating and responding to operational needs.
- Monitor bar areas and communicate product, supply, and service needs.
- Transport products, glassware, and supplies between locations throughout the Downtown Market.
- Stock and stage bars to ensure efficient, timely guest service.
- Assist bar staff during high-volume periods and changing event conditions.
Organization & Cleanliness
- Maintain clean, organized, and fully stocked bar areas before, during, and after shifts.
- Stage and organize products and supplies and keep service areas clear and safe.
- Assist with end-of-night bar breakdown and cleanup.
Teamwork & Safety
- Collaborate with bar staff, supervisors, back-of-house staff, and event team members.
- Complete and maintain required TIPS training.
- Follow Downtown Market policies, safety procedures, and operational standards.
- Maintain awareness when moving carts, hot boxes, and products through busy areas.
- Report safety concerns or operational issues to the appropriate supervisor.
- Assist with additional event duties as needed.
Qualifications & Experience
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum of 1–2 years of barback, hospitality, event operations, food and beverage, or related experience required.
- Must be at least 18 years of age.
- Previous experience in a fast-paced hospitality or event environment is preferred.
- Strong teamwork, communication, organization, and attention to detail.
- Dependable, positive, and proactive, with the ability to anticipate needs and take initiative.
- Ability to adapt to changing priorities, follow established procedures, and maintain a solutions-focused attitude.
- Commitment to supporting exceptional guest experiences.
Physical Requirements
This is an active, hands-on position requiring frequent movement throughout the Downtown Market. Candidates must be able to:
- Stand and walk for extended periods throughout a shift.
- Move carts and hot boxes safely through the building.
- Lift and carry products and supplies as needed to support bar operations.
- Bend, reach, squat, twist, and perform other movements necessary for job duties.
- Navigate busy event areas while maintaining awareness of people and surroundings.
- Work safely around hot and cold products and equipment.
- Work indoors and outdoors as operational needs require.
Schedule & Work Environment
This is a part-time, seasonal/temporary position supporting the Christkindl Markt during the holiday season.
The position involves working throughout indoor and outdoor event spaces, including busy bar areas, crowded guest and staff areas, and environments with varying noise levels, temperatures, and seasonal weather conditions. Frequent lifting, carrying, and movement of supplies are required.
Team members are expected to:
- Arrive prepared and on time for scheduled shifts.
- Accurately record hours worked and use work time efficiently.
- Remain productive and flexible as guest volumes and event needs change.
- Communicate proactively when additional support or adjustments are needed.
Why Join Our Team?
Play an important behind-the-scenes role in bringing one of West Michigan's signature holiday experiences to life. As a Bar Back, you'll help ensure bar teams have the products and supplies they need to deliver exceptional service.
You'll work alongside a passionate, collaborative team, stay active, solve problems, and contribute directly to the energy and magic of the Christkindl Markt.
If you're dependable, proactive, hardworking, and enjoy being part of a team that creates memorable experiences, we'd love to meet you!
Apply today! Qualified candidates will be contacted to schedule a conversation.
The Grand Rapids Downtown Market is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, experiences, and identities. We believe diverse perspectives strengthen our team and help us better serve our community.
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