Cocktail Prep Assistant

About Us: 

16 On Center Chicago owns and operates several live music venues, third-party production, restaurants, bars, and food halls across Chicago and New York. Join the team of one of the country's leading independent promoters.

Our most effective service to our community comes from a team with a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. 16 On Center actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. We provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment, without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Position Summary

As a Cocktail Prep Assistant at 16 On Center, you will play an essential role in the consistency and success of our bar programs. This part-time position is responsible for preparing cocktail components across multiple company concepts, maintaining a clean and organized prep space, and supporting inventory and batching. Acting as a bridge between the front- and back-of-house bar teams, you’ll work closely with the Beverage Operations Director, Cocktail Prep Coordinator, and Bar Managers to keep programs running smoothly, while also contributing to the development of new cocktails and ingredients that reflect the mission of each concept.

Additional Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Prepare all cocktail program components, including juices, syrups, garnishes, batches, and draft cocktails
• Maintain consistency and quality across programs on a weekly basis
• Batch draft cocktails and maintain functionality of draft cocktail equipment
• Assess inventory and ensure adequate stock of spirits, produce, and prep items
• Label, date, and initial all perishable items accurately
• Receive, unbox, stock, and organize liquor deliveries as needed
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of all beverage prep areas
• Rotate stock and check ingredient freshness
• Assist with ideation and creation of new cocktails and ingredients for all bar programs
• Recommend updates to prep systems and sheets for efficiency
• Willingness to cross-train and assist at other 16 On Center properties as needed

About You

• 1–2 years of experience with cocktail prep or a similar back-of-house bar support role
• Strong understanding of flavor, balance, and beverage ingredients
• Detail-oriented, reliable, and self-motivated
• Comfortable collaborating with bar leadership while working independently on prep tasks
• Positive attitude and clear communication skills
• Able to stand for extended periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and perform physical tasks such as bending, reaching, and handling deliveries in a prep environment

Position Details

• Job Type: Part-time, Hourly (3–4 daytime shifts per week, full-time potential for the right candidate)
• Schedule: Wednesday–Friday, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM; peak season may extend to 9:00 AM–5:00 PM with occasional Saturday mornings as needed
• Compensation: $22–25 per hour, depending on experience

Benefits & Perks

• Paid leave in accordance with Chicago requirements
• Dining discounts at 16 On Center properties
• Complimentary or discounted tickets to shows at 16 On Center venues (Salt Shed, Thalia Hall, SPACE, Empty Bottle)