Job Opening

Job Title: Per-Diem Event Bartender

Organization: Little Lion Collective

Location: New Haven, CT

Employment Type: Contract / Per-Diem (1099)

Compensation: $25/hour

Duration: August 2026 – December 2026 (With opportunity for extension)

About Little Lion Collective:

Little Lion Collective is a mobile wine and vinyl bar in New Haven, CT. We create joyful, inclusive nightlife experiences that center BIPOC, women, and LGBTQ+ communities through natural wine, nostalgic music, and atmospheric events. We are building a values-driven food and beverage venture rooted in equity, transparency, and community leadership. As we prepare to open a brick-and-mortar vinyl listening bar in New Haven, we are expanding our team with passionate food and beverage professionals.

Role Overview

Little Lion Collective is seeking experienced, per-diem Event Bartenders to support our pop-up event operations through the end of 2026. This role is ideal for skilled bartenders looking for flexible, event-based work. As an independent contractor, you will coordinate beverage service, guest experience, inventory tracking, and point-of-sale management during scheduled pop-up events.

Dependable, values-aligned contractors will be given priority consideration to join Little Lion’s core team for our brick and mortar launch estimated for 2027, which includes specialized industry certifications, participatory management training, and a pathway toward worker-ownership, if interested.

Key Responsibilities

Event Execution & Beverage Service

  • Execute efficient, professional beverage service  during scheduled pop-up events.

  • Handle full event workflow, including beverage station setup, service, and post-event breakdown.

  • Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant bar area in accordance with local food and beverage safety standards.

Point-of-Sale, Inventory & Social Media

  • Operate point-of-sale (POS) systems efficiently for cash and credit transactions.

  • Track pre- and post-event beverage inventory accurately to assist with financial management and inventory control.

  • Capture high-quality photos and videos of drinks and event setups during beverage testing or downtime for use on Little Lion's social media channels.

Hospitality & Community Engagement

  • Deliver warm, attentive, and inclusive customer service, embodying Little Lion’s mission to create safe, welcoming third spaces.

  • Serve as a primary point of contact during events, engaging with guests, answering questions about beverage offerings, and collecting guest feedback.

Independent Contractor (1099) Notice & Terms

  • Contract Status: This is an independent contractor (1099) per-diem position, not a W2 employee position.

  • Worker Autonomy: Contractors retain the right to accept or decline individual event shifts offered by Little Lion Collective.

  • Tax Responsibilities: As an independent contractor, you are responsible for reporting and paying your own income and self-employment taxes and invoicing for your services.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Experience: Minimum 1 year of professional bartending experience

  • Technical Skills: Proficiency with mobile Point-of-Sale (POS) systems (e.g., Square) and basic inventory tracking.

  • Safety and Sanitation: Must be proficient in keeping workspaces clean and sanitary in accordance with food code requirements.

  • Certifications: Valid Connecticut TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol certification (or willingness to obtain prior to first shift. Little Lion can pay for this certification.)

  • Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills with an ability to create an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere for diverse guest demographics 

  • Physical Ability: Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs (beverage crates, ice, event gear) during setup and breakdown.

  • Schedule & Availability: Candidates must have weekend availability (most events are on Saturday nights). Shifts are scheduled on a per-event basis; work is not required every weekend and will depend on scheduled pop-up dates. You will receive a minimum of 3 weeks advanced notice. 

How to Apply:

  • Please email Cara at info@littlelioncollective.com or fill out the form below with your resumé and a paragraph stating your interest in the role.