Beverage Specialist

About Eastern Edge Food HallEastern Edge Food Hall is a dynamic culinary destination in the heart of Cambridge, MA, created to bring together community, craft, and culture under one roof. Designed as a hybrid gathering space, Eastern Edge blends elevated hospitality with the energy of a modern food hall, where artisan vendors, innovative beverage programs, and thoughtful design converge. At the heart of Eastern Edge Food Hall is a dynamic beverage program that blends an elevated coffee experience with a craft-forward bar offering. Guests can enjoy espresso-driven beverages, signature cocktails, spritzes, and other approachable favorites that carry the space from morning to late night. Rooted in sincerity, creativity, and connection, Eastern Edge invites guests to explore a program built on quality, approachability, and discovery.Position OverviewThe Beverage Specialist is a dual-role beverage professional skilled in both coffee and cocktail preparation. This position rotates between the Bacaro café & bar counter and the main bar within Eastern Edge Food Hall, delivering exceptional guest service through elevated espresso beverages, thoughtfully executed cocktails, wine service, and a strong understanding of the full beverage program. This role blends bartending, barista craft, and authentic hospitality to create memorable beverage experiences from morning service through late evening.Key ResponsibilitiesBeverage Preparation & ExecutionPrepare all espresso-based drinks, brewed coffees, and signature café beverages according to established recipes and quality standards.Execute craft cocktails with precision and consistency.Maintain deep familiarity with the coffee program, house infusions, signature drinks, and seasonal offerings.Provide thoughtful wine & beer recommendations based on guest preferences.Guest Service & HospitalityDeliver sincere, welcoming, and anticipatory service to every guest, following Gather Group Standards of Excellence.Provide knowledgeable explanations of both coffee and bar menus, including flavor profiles, preparation methods, and suggested pairings.Maintain clean and organized workstations that reflect Eastern Edge service standards.Ensure seamless transitions between morning coffee service, afternoon spritzes, and evening bar operations.Bar & Café OperationsOpen and close both bar spaces following daily checklists and operational standards.Operate POS systems efficiently and accurately.Assist with inventory receiving, restocking, and daily pars for café ingredients, spirits, syrups, milks, and garnishes.Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of all bar equipment, tools, and prep areas in accordance with health and safety guidelines.Prepare house-made syrups, tonics, infusions, and café ingredients as required.Monitor quality of prepped items and ensure proper labeling, dating, and rotation (FIFO).Qualifications1-2 years of bartending or barista experience preferred; dual-experience strongly favored.Strong knowledge of coffee preparation, espresso equipment, and craft cocktail techniques.Ability to multitask in a high-energy, fast-paced environment.Excellent communication and guest-relations skills.Commitment to consistency, quality, and cleanliness.TIPS or equivalent alcohol certification required (or ability to obtain).Passion for hospitality and genuine guest connection.Physical RequirementsAbility to stand for extended periods of time.Ability to lift up to 50 lbs.Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.An Equal Opportunity EmployerWe do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, genetic information, or any other status protected by law or regulation. It is our intention that all qualified applicants are given equal opportunity and that selection decisions be based on job-related factors.