Bartender
On this page
- What's it like to be a Bartender?
- How to become a Bartender
- Latest Bartender jobs
- Top skills and experience for Bartenders
What's it like to be a Bartender?
Bartenders prepare and mix drinks for customers. They also manage the bar and address its needs during operating hours. The job is mostly located in establishments such as clubs, bars, hotels, restaurants, and cruise liners.
Tasks and duties
- Managing bar operations which may include equipment maintenance and inventory control.
- Taking orders from the bar and customising drink orders when requested.
- Assisting the Bar Manager in daily operations.
- Keeping the bar area clean and adequately supplied.
Depending on the role, some Bartenders may also manage the back-end operations. This may include ensuring adequate supplies are maintained, reporting bar equipment issues to management, and preparing bar food.
How to become a Bartender
You must be at least 18 years of age to apply for a role as a Bartender due to the presence of alcohol in the workplace. Skills in cashier management and customer service may be preferred by some hirers.
Complete at least secondary education. The role doesn't require a degree, however, completion of secondary school helps you get considered for the role.
Learn how to prepare and mix drinks. The job requires basic knowledge of cocktails, spirits, and juices. This can be taught by taking on entry-level apprenticeships such as being a Barback for experienced Bartenders, or learning from a bartending school.
Take up additional studies in mixology, basic food preparation, and customer service. Being able to recommend drink and food pairings may be beneficial.
