Bartender Jobs in the United States
Looking for Bartender jobs in the U.S.? You’re in the right place!
With 500+ Bartender positions open in restaurants, hotels, resorts, and entertainment venues nationwide, there are countless opportunities for skilled mixologists and customer‑service professionals ready to thrive behind the bar.
How To Apply for Bartender Jobs in the U.S.
Bartending roles are competitive, especially in high‑traffic cities, but you can stand out:
- Meet Basic Requirements: Must be of legal serving age in your state (usually 18 or 21+), have U.S. work authorization, and meet any local alcohol‑service certifications.
- Search Verified Listings: Use OysterLink to browse openings from restaurants, hotels, nightclubs, and event venues.
- Apply Early: Popular bars often hire quickly—set alerts to catch new listings.
Build a Professional Bartender Resume
Highlight both technical and interpersonal skills:
- Experience in bar service, cocktail preparation, and cash handling
- Knowledge of beer, wine, and spirit profiles
- Certifications such as TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures)
- Strong customer service and upselling achievements
Using OysterLink’s resume builder:
- Fill in prior bar, restaurant, or hospitality experience
- Upload a professional photo
- Set your visibility to public or private
- Write a bio showcasing mixology skills and guest‑service mindset
Choose a Bartender Job to Apply To on OysterLink
Click “Apply Now” on your chosen listing and follow instructions.
Your OysterLink profile lets you apply to multiple jobs efficiently and track application status.
Prepare for Bartender Job Interviews
Employers seek a mix of speed, service, and safety:
- Prepare to describe your drink knowledge and handling of busy shifts
- Be ready with examples of upselling or resolving customer issues
- Dress professionally but approachable, reflecting the venue’s vibe
- Ask about expected shift hours, drink menus, and team dynamics
Bartender Training Courses in the U.S.
Many states require or encourage bartender certification. These programs can enhance your skills:
| Training Program | Location | Focus Areas | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABC Bartending Schools | Multiple U.S. cities | Mixology, speed pouring, customer service | Hands‑on bar practice with certification |
| Professional Bartending Schools of America | Nationwide | Cocktails, wine knowledge, POS systems | Job placement support |
| TIPS Certification Programs | Online & in-person | Responsible alcohol service | Recognized in most U.S. states |
| National Bartenders School | CA, NV, AZ | Flair bartending, advanced mixology | Focus on high‑volume venues |
| ServSafe Alcohol Training | Online | State alcohol laws, safe service | Industry‑recognized credential |
Legal Requirements & Certifications
- Minimum Age: 18–21 depending on state laws.
- Alcohol‑Service Certification: Many states require TIPS or ServSafe Alcohol certification.
- Background Checks: Some employers run checks for high‑security venues.
- Health Standards: Food handler cards may also be needed in certain states.
Work Conditions & Benefits
- Pay: Typically $10–$25 per hour plus tips, with tips often doubling earnings in busy venues.
- Schedules: Evening, late‑night, weekend, and holiday shifts are common.
- Benefits: Many full‑time bartenders receive health insurance, discounts, and paid time off.
- Growth Opportunities: Advancement to Lead Bartender, Bar Manager, or Beverage Director roles.
Outlook for Bartender Careers in the U.S.
- Job Growth: BLS projects about 3% growth from 2023–2033—steady demand with high turnover creating openings.
- Annual Openings: Thousands each year as venues expand and experienced staff move up or move on.
- Trends: Rising interest in craft cocktails, local spirits, and sustainable bar practices is creating opportunities for skilled bartenders.
Why Employers & Job Seekers Trust OysterLink
Rated 4.9 on Glassdoor, OysterLink is a trusted platform for finding hospitality and culinary job opportunities.
Our dedicated selection team carefully screens every employer and job listing featured on our platform, assessing essential factors such as kitchen environment, employee reviews, salary transparency, and overall industry reputation.
This ensures job seekers find reliable, rewarding Bartender positions tailored to their career goals.
Sources
OysterLink offers a trusted database of hospitality and culinary job listings across the U.S, with a strong focus on quality and credibility.
Each listing goes through a strict vetting process, combining expert research and employer verification:
- Expert-curated listings: Our hospitality team actively researches top Bartender roles, analyzing job boards, employer sites, and company reputations.
- Verified employer submissions: Hotels, restaurants, and hospitality brands can submit listings directly, each carefully reviewed to ensure legitimacy and quality.