Barback job description
A Barback is an assistant to the Bartender. They ensure bartenders have the supplies they need to provide service to customers. A Barback has many responsibilities like stocking, restocking and keeping their work area clean.
Use this Barback job description template to find entry-level employees for your bar, nightclub or restaurant. Before publishing on job boards, feel free to tweak this job description for Barback based on your needs.
What is a Barback?
This is a junior role for someone who wants to work as a barista, bartender or even bar manager, in the future. Barbacks usually undertake simple tasks and mainly support the more experienced bar staff before they’re able to take orders, serve customers and mix drinks without supervision.
What does a Barback do?
Barbacks work behind-the-scenes to support bartenders and waiters during their shift. They also assist with bar opening and closing procedures.
Barback responsibilities include:
- Collecting glassware and cleaning up the bar area
- Replacing beer kegs and liquor bottles
- Refilling ice bins
Job brief
We are looking for a Barback to support our Bartenders and the rest of our staff. You’ll assist with bar opening and closing procedures and perform various behind-the-bar tasks, such as restocking the bar and preparing garnishes.
If you’re interested in kickstarting your career in the hospitality industry, this is a great opportunity to get first-hand experience of how a bar operates.
Ultimately, you’ll help ensure that our guests get an excellent customer service and enjoy their time at our bar.
Note that, to be considered for this role, you should be legally authorized to work in a bar where alcoholic beverages are served and consumed. You should also be available to work in shifts, including evenings, weekends and public holidays.
Responsibilities
- Tidy up tables, counters and other bar areas
- Collect empty glasses and bottles
- Restock the bar with straws, coasters and napkins
- Prepare mixers, juices and cocktail garnishes
- Replenish peanuts and fruits
- Change out beer kegs and replace liquor bottles
- Remove trash and wipe down drink spills
- Refill ice bins
- Clean rags throughout the shift
- Assist the Bartenders during rush hours
Requirements and skills
- Minimum age to serve alcohol
- Interest in the hospitality industry; previous entry-level experience in a bar or restaurant is not mandatory, but will be considered a plus
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
- Team spirit
- Basic knowledge of bar menu items and recipes (different types of beers and mixed drinks)
- Physical ability to lift beer kegs, hold trays of bottles and glassware and stand during the shift
- Flexibility to work during evenings, weekends and public holidays
- High school diploma; additional certification in mixology or hospitality is a plus
Frequently asked questions
- What does a Barback do?
- Barbacks are highly organized service professionals who assist bartenders in keeping their service area stocked and clean. These individuals are efficient and proactive. They anticipate the supply needs based on the service activity and make sure the bar's service area is clear of debris so customers can enjoy their time and staff members can provide fast and efficient service.
- What are the duties and responsibilities of a Barback?
- Barbacks often help Bartenders open and close the bar. They keep the bar stocked with liquor, beer, spirits, garnishes, ice cubes and other products needed throughout their shift. They ensure that glasses, stirrers, shakers, strainers and other bartending tools are clean and in the proper position for Bartenders. Their responsibilities can also include cleaning up spills, mopping floors, taking out the trash and sometimes keeping the restrooms clean.
- What makes a good Barback?
- A good Barback must be organized, take the initiative and be focused on customer service. They practice good prioritizing skills, have a familiarity with knife safety and work in loud and high-traffic environments. They must have a strong knowledge of bars, serving and mixology to ensure Bartenders have the items they need at a moment's notice.
- Who does a Barback work with?
- Barbacks typically work directly with Bartenders. Along with the Bartenders, Barbacks can work with other staff members at the bar or restaurant like Servers.