About The Kennedy Center
“I am certain that after the dust of centuries has passed over our cities, we, too, will be remembered not for victories or defeats in battle or in politics, but for our contribution to the human spirit.” – President John F. Kennedy
The Kennedy Center is the nation’s cultural center and living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Located on the banks of the Potomac River in Washington, D.C., the Center presents performances across all genres, and is also home to artistic affiliates Washington National Opera and National Symphony Orchestra.
At the Kennedy Center, we strive to foster belonging and empowerment at work. We are able to advance our mission because of our committed and passionate employees. We are fortunate to be able to leverage their diverse perspectives, life experiences and skills to inform how our workplace can be a safe, transparent, and replenishing community. The Kennedy Center is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant based on race, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, disability, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy or related condition, or any other basis protected by law.
Mission Statement: As America's performing arts center, and a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy, we are a leader for the arts across the United States and around the world, connecting the greatest living artists with audiences of every stripe, no matter their background. We welcome all Americans and creators and visitors from across the globe to discover, experience, learn about, be inspired by, and engage with the arts.
Pay Details
The Kennedy Center strives to design equitable compensation programs. The projected pay rate for this position is $17.95 per hour. This is the targeted rate of possible compensation for this role at the time of posting. This rate may be modified in the future.
Job Description
Evening and weekend availability required. Shifts align with performance schedules, rehearsals, and Member events.
The Members and Circles Lounge Bartender (Part-Time) delivers elevated, guest-centered beverage service for Kennedy Center Members, Circles-level patrons, and VIP guests within our private lounge spaces. This position plays a key role in creating a refined, welcoming environment before performances and during intermissions. The ideal candidate is polished, efficient, and able to thrive in fast-paced, performance-driven service windows while upholding the Kennedy Center’s values of hospitality, access, and inclusion.
Members and Circles patrons are among the Kennedy Center’s most loyal and generous supporters. The bartender in these exclusive lounges plays an essential role in shaping a warm, seamless, and memorable guest experience—strengthening patron relationships and contributing to the Center’s mission of supporting and celebrating the performing arts.
Key Responsibilities
- Warmly greet and serve Members and Circles guests with professionalism and hospitality.
- Prepare and serve wine, beer, cocktails, Champagne, and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Maintain strong product knowledge of wine, spirits, and menu offerings, providing recommendations as needed.
- Create an elevated, comfortable atmosphere for guests throughout pre-show and intermission periods.
- Anticipate guest needs and deliver attentive, discreet, service.
- Execute full bar setup and breakdown for each service period.
- Set up and breakdown beverage service in trustees box as needed for VIP attendance.
- Restock and organize wine, spirits, mixers, glassware, bar tools, and supplies.
- Maintain a clean, orderly, and visually polished bar environment.
- Adhere to responsible alcohol service guidelines and ID verification practices.
- Communicate inventory needs, operational issues, or guest concerns promptly and professionally to Lounge Manager.
- Work independently and collaboratively to support lounge operations.
- Uphold standards of appearance, discretion, respect, and cultural awareness.
Key Qualifications
- Previous bartending or hospitality experience preferred; training provided for the right candidate.
- Strong interpersonal, customer service, and communication skills.
- Ability to learn and retain wine, spirits, and cocktail knowledge through training.
- Calm, organized, and efficient during high-volume, time-sensitive intermission service periods.
- Professional demeanor and genuine interest in guest experience; interest in the performing arts is a plus.
- Ability to stand for extended periods during service.
- Ability to lift and transport 30–50 lbs., including cases of wine, ice, and glassware.
- Move frequently to restock, serve guests, and support bar operations.
- Perform tasks requiring bending, reaching, carrying, and repetitive motion.
- Candidate must be local or willing to relocate to the DMV area. Relocation assistance is not provided.
- Candidate must be willing to work onsite.
