What should I say about shift patterns and scheduling in a Bartender job description?

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.

Bartender 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 contemporary cocktail bar and restaurant serving 200+ covers daily with focus on craft cocktails, premium spirits, and exceptional guest experiences in a vibrant urban setting. Our bartenders are the focal point of our beverage program, creating expertly crafted cocktails while providing engaging hospitality, extensive product knowledge, and seamless service coordination with our floor team. The atmosphere combines sophisticated cocktail culture with approachable hospitality, welcoming diverse clientele from after-work professionals to special occasion celebrations, requiring adaptability, technical skill, and genuine passion for the craft of bartending.
• Prepare and serve expertly crafted cocktails, wine selections, and premium spirits with attention to recipe accuracy and presentation standards • Provide knowledgeable recommendations on cocktails, spirits, wine pairings, and seasonal drink selections based on guest preferences • Maintain comprehensive product knowledge including spirits, cocktail techniques, glassware, and garnish preparation for menu items • Execute efficient bar service during peak periods while maintaining quality standards and guest engagement • Handle cash and card transactions accurately using POS system, processing payments and managing bar tabs efficiently • Coordinate with kitchen and service teams on drink orders, timing, and special preparations for seamless guest experience • Maintain bar cleanliness, organization, and proper mise en place including stock rotation and equipment maintenance • Prepare fresh juices, syrups, and garnishes daily while managing bar inventory and ingredient quality standards • Ensure responsible alcohol service compliance including age verification, monitoring guest consumption, and intervention when necessary • Handle guest feedback professionally, adapting drinks to preferences and resolving concerns with management support • Complete opening duties including bar setup, equipment checks, and inventory preparation for service • Execute closing responsibilities including cleaning, cash reconciliation, and preparation for following service period
Essential Skills: Strong cocktail preparation abilities with knowledge of classic recipes, techniques, and modern mixology trends; excellent guest communication skills for engaging conversation and recommendation delivery; efficient multitasking capability during busy service periods; attention to detail for drink accuracy, presentation, and inventory management; physical stamina for extended periods of standing and rapid drink preparation; cash handling accuracy and POS system proficiency; team collaboration skills for coordinating with service and kitchen staff. Preferred Qualifications: Previous bartending experience in cocktail bars, restaurants, or hospitality environments; formal mixology training or certification from recognized institutions; extensive spirits and wine knowledge including production methods and flavor profiles; experience with craft cocktail techniques including muddling, shaking, stirring, and garnish preparation; understanding of responsible alcohol service regulations and certification; multilingual capabilities for diverse guest demographics.
We're looking for both experienced bartenders and enthusiastic newcomers who are passionate about cocktail craft and guest hospitality. While previous bar experience is valuable, we prioritize attitude, work ethic, and genuine interest in learning over extensive background. We provide comprehensive training covering our cocktail recipes, product knowledge, service standards, and bar operations, with experienced bartenders mentoring new team members through hands-on learning. Career development opportunities include advanced mixology training, wine education, and progression to bar supervisor or management roles for dedicated team members.
We're seeking someone who genuinely enjoys creating great drinks and connecting with guests while maintaining professionalism and efficiency during busy periods. The ideal candidate demonstrates natural hospitality, stays calm under pressure, and takes pride in craft cocktail preparation and presentation. You should be outgoing and personable while reading guest preferences appropriately, able to multitask effectively without sacrificing quality, and excited about continuous learning in cocktail techniques and product knowledge. Reliability, punctuality, and positive team attitude are essential for success in our collaborative bar environment.
Competitive hourly rate of £11.50-£14.00 based on experience, plus tips and service charge distribution (typically £35-60 per shift depending on service period and performance). Comprehensive benefits package includes: staff meals during all shifts; 25 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays; flexible scheduling accommodating work-life balance where operationally feasible; staff discounts on food and beverage purchases. Professional development opportunities include advanced mixology training, spirits education, and wine course support; clear progression pathways to senior bartender, bar supervisor, and management roles; team recognition programs and performance-based advancement opportunities. Additional benefits include access to industry events and cocktail competitions; ongoing product education with suppliers and brand ambassadors; supportive team environment with regular social events and skills development workshops.

When writing a job description for a bartender, it's important to clearly outline the expected shift patterns and scheduling details. This helps potential candidates understand what will be expected of them and decide if the job fits their availability. Mention typical working hours, any expectations for weekend or evening shifts, and the frequency of such shifts.

Common misunderstanding: It’s better to leave shift details vague to attract more applicants.

Being vague about shifts can lead to confusion and potential dissatisfaction, which might cause turnover if the job doesn't meet the employee's expectations. Clear communication from the start helps attract candidates who are genuinely able to commit to the required schedule.

Common misunderstanding: Specifying shift patterns will limit the number of applicants.

While this might reduce the quantity of applications, it increases the quality of candidates who are prepared for and can manage the specified hours, leading to better hiring outcomes.

Do I need to be specific about weekend and evening work?

Yes, it's crucial to be specific about weekend and evening work in a bartender job description. Bartending often requires working during these times when bars are busiest. Clearly stating this requirement helps set the right expectations and attracts applicants who are available during these critical hours.

Common misunderstanding: Candidates assume they can choose their shifts.

Without clear information, candidates might assume there is flexibility to choose or swap shifts easily. Specify if the role requires mandatory weekend and evening shifts to avoid any misunderstandings.

Common misunderstanding: All bartending jobs have the same scheduling requirements.

Different establishments have different peak times; for example, a hotel bar may have different busy periods compared to a nightclub. Be clear about your specific needs.

How can I signal flexibility or strictness around scheduling?

To communicate flexibility or strictness in scheduling within a bartender job description, use clear and direct language. If you offer flexible scheduling, mention how shifts can be negotiated or swapped. If the schedule is strict, state that shifts are fixed and non-negotiable to ensure clarity and manage expectations.

Common misunderstanding: Flexibility means employees can work whenever they want.

Clarify that while there may be some flexibility, it is within certain limits and must be coordinated with management to ensure proper coverage.

Common misunderstanding: Strict scheduling is inflexible under any circumstances.

Even with strict scheduling, it’s helpful to explain any processes in place for requesting time off or dealing with emergencies, so candidates understand that while the schedule is generally fixed, there are systems to handle exceptional situations.