KBC Tap Stand Staff (Part Time)

Company Overview

Kyoto Brewing Co. (herein KBC) is a craft beer brewery, based south-west of Kyoto Station, that started making beer in 2015. Heavily inspired by traditional Belgian methods and the modern American craft beer movement, we have focused on crafting a wide range of styles, whilst looking for ways to positively impact our community.

Company Context

In May, KBC reached 10 years of operation. In our last year, we have undergone much change in our brew program and our update as a brand and company culminated in our 10 year anniversary festival, "Naminamito", held at Higashihonganji Temple.

We also opened our first direct bar and restaurant, Mion, located within Uzumasa Kyoto Village (also known as Eigamura), at the end of March.

We are now excited about our next step: opening our first bar in central Kyoto, in the form of a beer stand located in the vibrant heart of the city, just a short walk from Hankyu Kawaramachi and Keihan Gion-Shijo Stations.

The venue will be a relaxed cash-on establishment, featuring a standing area on one side and a small chilled seating area on the other. Next to the bar is a spacious shared outdoor area where customers can enjoy takeaway beer or take a stroll along the Kamogawa River.

Position Background

The role will largely be a one-person operation, albeit standing alongside neighbouring coffee and sweets stands, with two staff members operating during weekends, public holidays, and busy periods.

We are looking for part-time staff who can step in during the Tap Stand Manager's days off, as well as provide support during longer operating days by covering shorter shifts.

About the Tap Stand

The KBC Tap Stand operates within a shared building space alongside a coffee shop and a sweets stall, on the edge of a green riverside lawn.

  • Open seven days a week for most of the year (operating days may be reduced during quieter winter periods)
  • Opening hours are currently being finalized, but are expected to run from early afternoon until late evening
  • Weekdays: one staff member (full-time or part-time depending on the day)
  • Weekends, public holidays, and busy periods: one staff member plus one part-time support staff
  • 6–8 rotating craft beers on tap
  • Canned beer refrigerator, soft drinks, simple cocktails, and Kyoto Brewing merchandise available
  • No food service

Facilities

  • Walk-in refrigerated keg server with capacity for approximately 10 kegs
  • Large display refrigerator for canned beer and spare kegs
  • Large double sink (shared with neighbouring businesses)
  • Ice maker (shared)

The Tap Stand operates on a cash-on basis. Customers drinking on-site will be served in glassware, while takeaway orders will be served in plastic cups.

The venue features a standing service counter as well as a dedicated takeaway service window.

Indoor capacity is approximately 8–10 standing guests and 6–8 seated guests, with a large shared outdoor space available for customers to enjoy their drinks.

Restrooms are shared between all businesses within the facility, so there are no restroom management duties for staff.

Overview

The Tap Stand Staff works alongside the Tap Stand Manager in the day-to-day operation of Kyoto Brewing's Tap Stand.

For many visitors, this role will be their very first interaction with Kyoto Brewing. Because of this, Tap Stand Staff are expected to be friendly, welcoming, and professional at all times.

Your primary goal is to make every customer feel welcome, serve every beer in the best possible condition, and ensure that every visit to Kyoto Brewing is an enjoyable experience.

Customer Engagement

Alongside our regular local customers, we welcome visitors from all over Japan and around the world. Even when you do not share the same language, we value staff who are happy to communicate with customers and make them feel comfortable and welcome.

Supporting Daily Operations

While you will generally work alongside the Tap Stand Manager, we hope that over time you will develop the skills and confidence to handle the day-to-day responsibilities required to help keep the Tap Stand running smoothly.

Detailed Job Responsibilities

  • Welcome customers to the Tap Stand and take orders
  • Explain our beers and other products to help customers make their selection
  • Answer customer questions and provide assistance wherever possible
  • Engage with customers and help create a relaxed, friendly atmosphere
  • Prepare the Tap Stand before opening and complete cleaning duties after closing
  • Change beer kegs, connect beers to the draft system, ensure beer is being served in excellent condition, and clean draft lines after closing
  • Monitor the cleanliness of both the indoor and outdoor customer areas throughout the day
  • Support the manager on duty with daily sales reporting and other operational tasks

Qualifications & Requirements

What We're Looking For

  • An interest in craft beer
  • Someone who enjoys talking with and engaging with customers
  • Someone who enjoys interacting with both local regulars and visitors from across Japan and overseas

Preferred Experience

  • Previous experience in a bar or restaurant is preferred, but not required

Language Skills

Japanese

  • Native-level or fluent Japanese

English

  • Basic reading ability
  • Conversational English is preferred, but not required

Other Requirements

  • Must be at least 20 years of age (as the position involves serving alcoholic beverages)

Physical Demands & Working Conditions

This position involves the following physical tasks as part of day-to-day operations.

  • Moving heavy items, including kegs weighing up to approximately 20kg and cases of canned beer
  • Standing for extended periods of time
  • Cleaning draft equipment using alkaline (caustic) cleaning chemicals, while following all safety procedures and proper handling practices

Employment Details & Benefits

  • Employment Type: Part-time
  • Expected Start Date: September 2026
    *Applicants who are available from August may be invited to complete training shifts at our main brewery taproom before the new Tap Stand opens.
  • Hourly Wage: ¥1,250
  • Transportation Allowance: Provided
  • Multicultural Work Environment
  • Employee Discounts on Kyoto Brewing beer and merchandise

Working Hours

  • Shift-based schedule
  • Approximately 4–8 hours per shift between 12:30 and 23:00
  • Shifts will be arranged based on your availability

How to Apply

Please send your resume and CV to recruit-retail@kyotobrewing.com.

In your application, please tell us:

  • Why you would like to work at Kyoto Brewing
  • Why you believe you are the right person for this position

Successful applicants will be contacted to arrange an interview.

Selection Process:
Application Review → Interview → Job Offer
*A second interview may be arranged if necessary.