How much experience should we ask for in a Barback 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.

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.

When writing a Barback job description, it's important to match the experience level you ask for with the specific needs of your bar. For instance, if your bar has a complex cocktail menu and a fast-paced environment, you might need someone with more experience. However, if you're willing to provide training, you could consider hiring someone with less experience who is eager to learn.

Common misunderstanding: Asking for more experience than necessary.

It's a common mistake to ask for more experience than the job actually requires. This can discourage potentially great candidates who might lack years of experience but possess the right skills and attitude. Focus on what is truly necessary for the role.

Common misunderstanding: Equating experience with effectiveness.

More years in the industry doesn't always mean a candidate is the best fit. Skills, personality, and the ability to mesh with your team are often just as important as the length of time someone has worked in a bar.

How do we define the difference between entry-level and mid-level barbacks?

Defining the difference between entry-level and mid-level barbacks is crucial for setting clear expectations. Entry-level barbacks might not have any bar experience and are typically in a learning phase, requiring more guidance and training. Mid-level barbacks, however, should have some bar experience, understand basic operations, and be able to handle more responsibilities with less supervision.

Common misunderstanding: Assuming all entry-level candidates lack skills.

While entry-level barbacks may not have specific bar experience, they might bring other valuable skills from different jobs or industries, such as customer service or fast-paced work environments.

Common misunderstanding: Overlooking the potential of promoting from within.

Sometimes, the best mid-level candidates are your own entry-level barbacks who have grown and excelled in their roles. Consider internal training and promotion opportunities.

Should we require time served or specific contextual experience?

It's more effective to require specific contextual experience rather than just time served. This means looking for experience that directly relates to the environment and pace of your bar. For example, a candidate with six months in a high-volume, fast-paced bar might be more suitable than someone with two years in a slow-paced, low-volume establishment.

Common misunderstanding: Valuing quantity of time over quality of experience.

Long tenure at a job doesn't necessarily translate to a good fit for your bar. Focus on the relevance of their experience to your specific needs.

Common misunderstanding: Ignoring transferable skills.

Candidates might have worked in different but related roles or industries with skills that are transferable to the barback position. Consider how these experiences might benefit your operations.