Whether you’re hiring for a small bar or a large restaurant chain, an accurate and engaging Barback job description is crucial when it comes to attracting the right candidates.
This guide will show you how to craft the perfect job description, including what information to include and how to structure it. We’ll go over every section in detail to help you create the ideal ad listing.
Barback Job Description Template
If you’re looking to hire a Barback, you can use this free template and modify it to suit your specific needs and requirements.
Barback Job Overview
[Establishment Name] is seeking a full-time Barback to collaborate with our team and deliver prompt and seamless service to our patrons.
The role involves assisting Bartenders by preparing garnishes, ensuring ample stock of bar supplies and maintaining cleanliness in the bar area.
This position is open to applicants aged [Minimum age to serve alcohol in your state] and above. Previous experience in a similar role is preferred but not required.
Salary: [Salary range] per hour + tips
Schedule: Full-time/Part-time
Benefits: Paid time off, employee discounts
Barback Duties & Responsibilities
- Track and replenish bar supplies, including glassware and liquor
- Clean and polish glassware and utensils
- Keep the bar area clean and organized
- Clear tables and collect empty glasses and dishes after customers leave
- Assist Bartenders in preparing drinks by cutting garnishes and refilling ice bins
- Adhere to regulations and protocols regarding responsible alcohol service
- Operate various bar equipment such as blenders, juicers and ice machines
- Pour and refill beers and wines if necessary, especially during peak hours
- Assist in taking customers’ orders and collecting payments in case the Bartender is preoccupied
Barback Experience & Age Requirements
- Previous experience working in a bar or restaurant is preferred
- Must be at least [Minimum age to serve alcohol in your state] years old
Barback Skills & Abilities
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- A keen eye for details
- Ability to keep track of inventory and supplies
- Great multitasking abilities, especially under pressure
- Physically fit to stand for long hours and lift and carry up to 50 pounds
- Knowledge of responsible alcohol service practices and compliance with legal regulations regarding alcohol sale and consumption
- Familiarity with bar equipment and tools is considered a plus
Barback Education & Qualifications
- High school diploma or GED
How To Write a Barback Job Description
A good job description is one that’s able to provide clear and concise details about the role. When creating a Barback job description, put yourself in the candidate’s shoes and try to answer relevant questions they might have about the role’s duties, responsibilities and requirements.
Here’s what every job description needs to include, especially one for the hospitality industry and roles like Barbacks.
Barback Duties and Responsibilities
Your job description should focus on the key Barback duties and responsibilities that will be expected from whoever ends up working in this role. If you’re open about what this role entails and what daily tasks applicants will be expected to perform, you’re much more likely to get an applicant you’re interested in and you’ll reduce the turnover rate for your establishment.
Here are just a few common responsibilities handled by Barbacks:
- Keep the bar area clean and organized
- Manage inventory and restock items when needed
- Take out the trash at the end of the shift
- Keep glasses, plates and other bartender tools clean and polished
- Fill up ice bins whenever they’re running low
Barback Skills and Experience
Don’t use complicated language or jargon that people won’t understand unless they’re in the industry. This is an entry-level role, so use simple language anyone can understand, even if they only have a high school diploma.
Don’t be vague when creating your job description. Avoid using terms like “handle” and “manage” without further context. This leaves room for interpretation, which could lead to misunderstandings between you and the candidate further down the line. The clearer and more precise you are, the better it is for everyone involved.
Here’s what you should look for when selecting a candidate to fill your Barback role:
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Great organizational skills to keep the bar area clean and sanitized
- Ability to work under pressure, especially during peak hours
- Good physical shape to be able to work standing up during the shift
Barback Education and Certifications
Include whether the ideal candidate should possess any special certifications. For Barbacks, most establishments don’t mind a candidate with only a high school diploma or equivalent.
Barback Salary Expectations
Make sure all of the information is presented in a clear and concise manner. Things like salary and benefits should be visible as soon as candidates open the job ad. That way, you’re clearly communicating what you’re offering and they can apply if they feel it meets their needs and requirements.
The average national salary for Barbacks in the United States is $31,688. Make sure to list a competitive salary so you attract eager candidates who are willing to work.
Similar Job Titles
Barback Job Description FAQ
Since this is an entry-level job, you can hire Barbacks with no previous experience and train them on the job. If you want someone with previous experience in a similar role, you can offer a higher salary and attract those types of candidates.
This depends on the state your establishment is located in. You can view labor laws in each state to see whether there’s a minimum age for hiring Barbacks. As a general rule, if Barbacks serve alcohol in your establishment, they’ll need to be of legal age to serve alcohol and will most likely need a valid alcohol-serving permit.
Ask questions that will help you determine whether the applicant would be able to fill the duties and responsibilities of a Barback. These might include questions related to their organizational skills, work etiquette and even multitasking abilities. We have a separate Barback interview questions article outlining the most common questions for this role.
Serving customers is the job of Bartenders and Waiters/Waitresses. However, there may be times when Barbacks might have to refill drinks or help out with deliveries during peak hours.
