How do I identify and list the right skills for our Barback role?

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 you're setting up a job description for a Barback, it's crucial to think about the specific tasks they'll be doing. Start by reviewing the daily responsibilities and then think about what skills are needed to perform these tasks well. For example, if the Barback needs to quickly restock items during busy periods, they'll need good organisational and time management skills.

Common misunderstanding: All barbacks need the same skills, regardless of the bar.

Each bar operates differently, so the skills needed can vary. A high-volume nightclub might need a Barback who is very fast and efficient, while a smaller, more relaxed bar may need someone who is good at interacting with customers as well as managing stock.

Common misunderstanding: Skills are less important than experience.

While experience is valuable, the specific skills a Barback brings can make or break their effectiveness. Focus on identifying skills that directly improve their ability to support your bar's operations.

Why is it better to focus on real skills over generic traits?

Focusing on specific skills rather than generic traits helps you attract candidates who are better suited for the actual work they'll be doing. For instance, saying a Barback needs to be "hard-working" is less helpful than specifying they need "the ability to lift heavy weights" or "excellent time management skills" to keep up with a fast-paced environment.

Common misunderstanding: Generic traits make it easier to find a good cultural fit.

While cultural fit is important, it's the specific skills that will determine how well a Barback performs their job. You can always help someone to align with your culture through orientation and training, but they need to come with the right skills set.

Common misunderstanding: Detailed skills make the job seem too demanding.

Being clear about the skills needed actually helps set realistic expectations for the role. It ensures candidates know what they are applying for and can self-assess their suitability, which leads to more appropriate applications.

How do I match tasks to necessary skill sets?

To match tasks to the necessary skills, first list out all the tasks that a Barback is expected to perform. Next, think about what it takes to perform each task effectively. For example, if a task involves setting up the bar before it opens, the necessary skills might include attention to detail, ability to follow instructions, and good organisational skills.

Common misunderstanding: All tasks require the same level of skill.

Different tasks can require different levels of skill or different types of skills. For instance, restocking might need physical strength and speed, while maintaining the cleanliness of the bar might require meticulousness and a good understanding of hygiene practices.

Common misunderstanding: It’s enough to just list tasks in the job description.

While listing tasks is important, linking them to specific skills helps potential candidates understand what is expected of them and assess their own suitability for the role. It also helps you evaluate candidates more effectively during the hiring process.