Experienced Bartender

We're looking for team members who are eager to learn, take pride in their work, and are passionate about creating memorable experiences for our guests.

We believe in the true meaning of guest service — anticipating needs before they're asked for — and we're looking for people who share that belief. If you see hospitality as more than just a job, but as a career built on care, professionalism, and genuine human connection, then you'll feel right at home with us.

Rutherford Hotel Nelson ~ A Heritage Hotel is Nelson's only 24-hour fully-serviced hotel. We're proud to provide luxurious rooms, suites, and dining experiences for our guests — not customers, because hospitality is about warmth, sincerity, and treating people as if they've "arrived home" after a long journey.

We believe in helping our team shape meaningful careers in hospitality. Through training, support, and opportunities to grow, you'll develop skills that will stay with you for life.

We're also deeply connected to our community and surroundings. Nestled between four national parks in the Nelson Tasman region, our environment offers a richness of culture, nature, and produce — from world-class seafood and chocolate to the world-famous peanut butter, local lemonades, craft beer, wine, and spirits. Living and working here means becoming an ambassador for everything this region has to offer.

• Competitive wages and fair treatment for all, balanced with clear expectations of performance.
• Career growth and development with ServiceIQ ).
• Nationwide discounts through ).
• Free parking at the hotel.
• Free meals while on duty.
• One free night's stay each year including dinner and breakfast for two (after 3 months' continuous employment).
• 25% staff discount at Rutherford Hotel Nelson.

But more than that — you'll be part of a supportive team culture where learning, growth, and pride in service are at the heart of what we do.

Our greatest asset is our people. We're looking for team members who are eager to learn, take pride in their work, and are passionate about creating memorable experiences for all our guests, whether they are in house or just stop for a coffee.

We believe in the true meaning of guest service — anticipating needs before they're asked for — and we're looking for people who share that belief. If you see hospitality as more than just a job, but as a career built on care, professionalism, and genuine human connection, then you'll feel right at home with us.

You'll be in charge of the hotel's Port O' Call Bar (make it your own), support staff training, and ensure service standards are consistently exceeded. This is a full time position requiring a commitment of at least 37.5 hours per week.

Attributes, Responsibilities & Culinary-, Technical Skills and Knowledge

- 2 to 3 years experience working in a Bar environment

- Strong foundation and understanding of all F&B related operations and products

- Proficiency in all aspects of guest service delivery including à la carte

- Ability for planning ahead and finding most efficient ways to deliver best guest service

- General Health & Safety, Food Safety, allergen, FCP/HACCP knowledge

Leadership & Management

- Assisting in the supervision, motivation and training of other team members around Bar service

- Effective communication with all other team members in various departments as needed

Organisational & Operational Skills

- Efficient set up and prep management for a smooth daily service

- Stock control, internal ordering, and minimising waste

- Time management under pressure, balancing simultaneous service demands

- Cost control: portioning and labour allocation

Creativity & Adaptability

- Ability to assist in development and implementation of ongoing service standard improvements

- An eye for detail in the presentation of the bar environment

- Problem-solving when faced with last-minute changes and/or operational obstacles

Striving for Excellence and a Commitment to Improvement

- Consistently strive to achieve the highest standards and continuously improve in every aspect of being a true hospitality professional

- Dedicated to developing your own and the team's skills and abilities through ongoing learning and commitment

Because hospitality is about people. Our people. Our guests. Our community. We want individuals who not only share this passion but who are ready to become ambassadors for all we stand for.

If you're motivated to grow, eager to learn, and want to be part of something bigger — this is your opportunity.

Why wait? Apply today and take the first step towards a meaningful career in hospitality.

Before applying, we encourage you to learn a little about who we are — our website is a great starting point. We want applicants who are genuinely excited about working with us and what we represent.

*** VISA SPONSORSHIP IS NOT AVAILABLE ***