What are examples of typical Barback pre-service tasks?

Date modified: 22nd September 2025 | This FAQ page has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email. Or book a demo to see how hospitality businesses use Pilla to create and record job descriptions.

Barback Job Description Template

This job description template provides a full working exmaple using our six step approach. Open the template in the Pilla app and customise each section to make it specific to your role and business.

We operate a busy cocktail bar and restaurant serving 250+ covers nightly with emphasis on craft cocktails, premium spirits, and high-volume service requiring seamless bar support operations. Our Barback role is essential to smooth bar operations, providing crucial support to bartenders through stock management, preparation tasks, and cleaning duties that enable efficient service delivery during peak periods. The position offers excellent entry point into the bar industry with opportunities to learn cocktail techniques, product knowledge, and service skills while supporting experienced bartenders in a fast-paced, professional hospitality environment.
• Maintain adequate stock levels for all bar stations including spirits, wine, beer, mixers, and garnish supplies throughout service periods • Prepare fresh ingredients daily including cutting garnishes, juicing citrus, and preparing syrups and bar mise en place • Keep bar areas clean and organized including glassware washing, surface sanitizing, and equipment maintenance • Support bartenders during busy periods by restocking supplies, clearing used glassware, and maintaining station organization • Handle bottle changes for spirits and wine, ensuring proper rotation and inventory accuracy • Coordinate with kitchen and storage areas for ingredient delivery and inventory management • Maintain ice machines and ensure adequate ice supply for all bar stations throughout service • Empty trash bins, replace liners, and maintain general bar cleanliness and hygiene standards • Assist with opening duties including equipment setup, stock checks, and preparation area organization • Complete closing responsibilities including deep cleaning, inventory counting, and preparation for following service • Transport supplies between storage areas and bar stations efficiently and safely • Support special events and busy periods with additional preparation and service assistance
Essential Skills: Strong work ethic with ability to maintain pace during busy service periods; excellent attention to detail for stock management and cleanliness standards; physical stamina for lifting, carrying, and standing for extended periods; team collaboration skills for supporting bartenders and coordinating with other staff; basic organizational abilities for managing multiple tasks and priorities; willingness to learn and follow instructions precisely. Preferred Qualifications: Previous experience in restaurants, bars, or hospitality environments demonstrating reliability and work ethic; basic knowledge of alcoholic beverages and bar equipment; food safety and hygiene awareness; ability to work efficiently under pressure; positive attitude toward learning cocktail preparation and bar operations; flexibility for various shift patterns including evenings and weekends.
This is an excellent entry-level position for those interested in bar and hospitality careers, requiring no previous bar experience but strong work ethic and willingness to learn. We value enthusiasm, reliability, and positive attitude over extensive background, making this ideal for career starters or career changers interested in the industry. Comprehensive training covers bar operations, product knowledge, and service standards, with opportunities to shadow experienced bartenders and learn cocktail preparation techniques. Clear advancement pathway to bartender roles typically within 6-12 months for dedicated team members who demonstrate skill development and reliability.
We're looking for someone who thrives in fast-paced environments, takes pride in supporting team success, and maintains positive energy even during busy periods. The ideal candidate demonstrates reliability and punctuality, shows initiative in anticipating needs, and approaches challenges with solution-focused thinking. You should be physically capable of demanding work, comfortable with repetitive tasks, and genuinely interested in learning about bar operations and cocktail craft. Strong communication skills, ability to follow directions precisely, and enthusiasm for contributing to exceptional guest experiences are essential for success in this supporting role.
Competitive hourly rate of £10.50-£12.00 based on experience, plus share of tips and service charge distribution (typically £20-40 per shift depending on service volume). Comprehensive benefits package includes: staff meals during all shifts; 24 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays; flexible scheduling accommodating work-life balance where operationally feasible; staff discounts on food and beverage purchases. Career development opportunities include comprehensive bartending training with progression to bartender roles within 6-12 months; ongoing education in cocktail techniques, product knowledge, and service skills; mentorship from experienced bartenders and bar management team. Additional benefits include access to industry events and networking opportunities; recognition programs for outstanding performance and reliability; supportive team environment with regular training sessions and skills development workshops; clear advancement pathways within our growing hospitality group.

Before a bar opens, Barbacks have a list of tasks to prepare for a smooth service. These tasks include restocking bar items like glassware, napkins, and garnishes, cutting fruit for drinks, filling ice bins, sanitising and organising bar stations, and conducting simple maintenance checks on equipment. These preparations are crucial for ensuring everything is ready and accessible for the bartenders during service.

Common misunderstanding: Pre-service tasks are just about cleaning.

While cleaning is a part of the pre-service routine, Barbacks also handle various setup tasks that are essential for operational efficiency, such as restocking and prep work, which are just as important as cleaning.

Common misunderstanding: All bars have the same pre-service tasks.

Pre-service tasks can vary significantly depending on the type of bar and its specific needs. For example, a cocktail bar might require more extensive setup of mixology tools and ingredients compared to a beer pub that might focus more on stocking beers and setting up taps.

Why should pre-shift preparation be clearly outlined?

Clear outlines for pre-shift preparations ensure that all necessary tasks are completed before the bar opens, preventing operational hiccups. It helps maintain a standard of service and efficiency, making sure that everything needed during the service is in place and ready to use. This preparation is key to a smooth running shift, reducing stress for staff and improving the customer experience.

Common misunderstanding: It’s enough to know the tasks, no need for detailed instructions.

Knowing the tasks is a start, but detailed instructions on how to perform each task can significantly improve the quality and consistency of the setup. This ensures that all team members perform tasks correctly and uniformly.

Common misunderstanding: Pre-shift preparation is only the Barback's responsibility.

While Barbacks play a major role in pre-shift preparations, teamwork is often necessary, especially in larger or busier venues. Bartenders and other staff may also need to be involved to ensure that everything is set up efficiently and correctly.

How do I describe setup responsibilities without being vague?

When describing setup responsibilities in a job description or training manual, be specific about each task. For example, instead of saying "prepare the bar," specify what preparation entails: "Restock the bar with glasses, ensure all mixers are full, and prepare garnish trays." This clarity helps staff understand exactly what is expected of them and how to execute their duties effectively.

Common misunderstanding: General descriptions are sufficient for experienced staff.

Even experienced staff benefit from specific descriptions as they clarify expectations and reduce the likelihood of assumptions that might lead to mistakes or inconsistencies in service.

Common misunderstanding: Detailed task descriptions are only necessary for new employees.

Detailed task descriptions help maintain standards and consistency across the board, regardless of an employee's experience level. They are essential for quality control and ensuring that all staff members, new or experienced, are aligned with the venue’s operational standards.