Job Descriptions

Bartender Job Description

What is the job description of a Bartender? What are the duties and responsibilities of a Bartender? What does a Bartender do?

Job description of a Bartender

Bartenders mix, garnish and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to customers. They may also be known as Barkeeps or Mixologists. Bartenders must know a wide range of drink recipes and be able to mix drinks correctly, quickly, and without waste.

In addition to mixing and serving drinks, bartenders stock and prepare garnishes for drinks and maintain an adequate supply of ice, glasses, and other bar supplies. They also may wash glassware and utensils and serve food to customers who eat at the bar. Bartenders are usually responsible for ordering and maintaining an inventory of liquor, mixers, and other bar supplies.

This Bartender job description example includes the list of most important Bartender duties and responsibilities as shown below. It can be modified to fit the specific Bartender profile you're trying to fill as a recruiter or job seeker.

Bartender Duties and Responsibilities

Bartender job description should contain a variety of functions and roles including:

  • Welcoming customers, reading and listening to people to determine beverage preferences, making recommendations, and taking drink orders.
  • Planning drink menus and informing customers about new beverages and specials.
  • Selecting and mixing ingredients, garnishing glasses, and serving beverages to customers.
  • Checking identification to ensure customers are the legal age to purchase alcohol.
  • Taking inventory and ordering supplies to ensure bar and tables are well-stocked.
  • Adhering to all food safety and quality regulations.
  • Handling cash, credit, and debit card transactions, ensuring charges are accurate and returning correct change to patrons, balancing the cash register.
  • Maintaining a clean work and dining area by removing trash, cleaning tables, and washing glasses, utensils, and equipment.
  • Developing new cocktail recipes.

Bartender Requirements / Skills / Qualifications

Bartender job description should include these common skills and qualifications:

  • High School Diploma.
  • Additional education, training, certificates, or experience may be required.
  • Meets state minimum age to serve alcohol.
  • Availability to work nights, weekends, and holidays.
  • Positive, engaging personality and professional appearance.
  • Basic math and computer skills.
  • Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Strong task and time management abilities.
  • Eye for detail and understanding of drink mixing tools and techniques.
  • Ability to stand, walk, bend, etc for extended periods

As a hiring manager, recruiting an ideal Bartender starts with crafting a good job description. Use this Bartender job description template to save yourself time and help you attract the most qualified candidates. Feel free to revise it to meet your specific needs.

Job seekers interviewing for the role of a Bartender may also reference it in preparation for the interview.