Bartender | Part-Time |The Norva
Company : SPECTRA
Location : Norfolk, VA, 23510
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 10 January 2026
Oak View Group
Oak View Group is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. Offering an unmatched, 360-degree solution set for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster that includes the most influential, highest attended arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions on the planet.
Position Summary
The Bartender is responsible for the service of all beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic. They must be personable, professional and able to work in an ever changing fast-paced environment. The employee must maintain excellent attendance and be available to work events as scheduled per business need.
This role will pay an hourly rate of $2.13 and is tip eligible
Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) Savings Plan and 401(k) matching
EVERGREEN ROLE: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis; there is no application deadline
Responsibilities
- Must demonstrate ability to meet the company standard for excellent in the areas of guest service, interaction with co-workers and uniform standards.
- Follow the bar pre-shift notes and bar menus and provide service as described.
- Serve alcoholic beverages following all proper procedures for serving alcoholic drinks including state/federal regulations pertaining to the distribution of alcohol.
- Responsible to learn or have knowledge of various beer, wine varieties & spirits available, and be able to learn to suggestively upsell products to guests.
- Must pour drinks responsibly in accordance with company standards for serving size.
- Must check guest’s ID in accordance with state/federal regulations to verify minimum age requirement for the purchase of alcoholic beverages.
- Must communicate a cut-off to a guest as required.
- Listening and responding to any customer requests or concerns.
- Bartenders are expected to de-escalate intoxicated guest situations. If a guest becomes confrontational, belligerent, or uses extreme profanity, the bartender may contact management or security as required.
- Contact a management member if he/she is unable to resolve or make a decision beyond the scope of standard decision-making.
- Request additional product or restock product as required.
- Ability to handle cash accurately is required. Employee is responsible for issued bank at his/her bar.
- Maintains clean and sanitary work station at all times. Ensures bar equipment is clean & well maintained.
- Other duties as assigned such as set-up and breakdown of bar equipment as required and assisting with organization of the cooler.
Qualifications
- Six months or more experience bartending.
- Accurate cash handling skills.
- Ability to prioritize tasks in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to be self-directed while working in a team-oriented environment.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule including nights, weekends and long hours.
- Bartending school preferred.
Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference
At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.
Frequently asked questions
Bartending at The Norva offers a unique fast-paced environment tied to live event settings, which means handling large crowds and diverse clientele during concerts or shows. This differs from typical bars in Norfolk by requiring quick adaptability, strong guest interaction skills, and compliance with specific event-related protocols.
Starting part-time at The Norva can lead to opportunities like full-time bartender positions, bar supervisor roles, or event hospitality management within Oak View Group’s extensive venue network. Gaining experience here builds skills valued across live entertainment venues, opening doors to broader hospitality careers.
Employers in Norfolk prioritize cash handling accuracy, knowledge of local and craft beverages, ability to manage busy shifts, and excellent interpersonal communication. Being adept at responsibly serving alcohol and managing guest interactions in a lively atmosphere is crucial for bartending roles here.
While not always mandatory, completing a bartending school or obtaining a Virginia ABC Responsible Beverage Service certification can enhance employability. These certifications demonstrate knowledge of state alcohol laws and responsible service, which is highly regarded for bartenders at venues like The Norva.
The Norva’s part-time bartenders often work nights, weekends, and event-driven hours due to the live entertainment focus. Flexibility to cover varying shifts and availability during event dates is essential to meet the venue’s dynamic scheduling demands.
Norfolk has a vibrant hospitality scene with steady demand for skilled part-time bartenders, especially in entertainment venues. However, competition is high, so demonstrating bartending experience, strong customer service skills, and local knowledge can improve chances of securing a role.
SPECTRA emphasizes premium hospitality in live event settings, so bartenders at The Norva benefit from structured training, a focus on guest experience, and access to a wide network of venues. This company culture supports career growth and values diversity within its teams.
Part-time bartenders here earn a base hourly pay of $2.13, which is the tipped minimum wage, supplemented significantly by tips. This structure is common in Virginia and reflects the live events industry’s standard for bartending compensation.
SPECTRA provides clear operational guidelines, including pre-shift briefings and continuous support from management. Bartenders are trained to handle crowd management, responsible alcohol service, and conflict de-escalation, ensuring smooth and safe event operations.
Daily tasks include preparing and serving beverages, verifying guest IDs, maintaining cleanliness, restocking supplies, and managing cash accurately. Bartenders must also engage positively with guests and work efficiently during high-volume event periods.