What does a Bartender typically do during active service?

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.

During active service, a bartender is mainly responsible for creating drinks, engaging with customers, and managing the bar area efficiently. They mix and serve both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, take orders, and ensure that customers are satisfied with their service. It's a busy time where speed and accuracy are key.

Common misunderstanding: Bartenders only need to know how to mix drinks.

While mixing drinks is important, bartenders also need to manage payments, interact with customers, and sometimes serve food. Their role is diverse and requires good interpersonal skills alongside their technical drink-making skills.

Common misunderstanding: Bartenders have the same responsibilities in all types of bars.

The specific duties of a bartender can vary significantly depending on the type of bar. For example, a bartender at a high-volume sports bar may focus more on speed and efficiency, while one at a cocktail lounge might spend more time on crafting unique drinks and engaging in detailed conversations with patrons.

Which customer service duties should be included?

Customer service duties for bartenders include greeting customers, taking drink and food orders, making recommendations, and ensuring that guests are enjoying their experience. They should also handle customer complaints gracefully and efficiently to maintain a pleasant atmosphere.

Common misunderstanding: Customer service is just about being friendly.

While friendliness is crucial, effective customer service also involves active listening, problem-solving, and the ability to handle stressful situations without affecting the customer's experience negatively.

Common misunderstanding: Bartenders don’t need to check on guests after serving them.

Follow-up with guests is essential. Checking back not only shows care and attention but also provides an opportunity to rectify any issues before they leave, enhancing customer satisfaction and the likelihood of return visits.

How do I explain multitasking requirements clearly?

To clearly explain multitasking requirements, outline that bartenders must be able to handle multiple orders, interact with different customers, and manage various tasks simultaneously without compromising the quality of service or drink preparation.

Common misunderstanding: Multitasking means doing everything at once.

Multitasking effectively is more about prioritising tasks and managing time efficiently rather than doing everything simultaneously. It's crucial for bartenders to know when to switch between tasks to maintain smooth operations.

Common misunderstanding: All bartenders naturally excel at multitasking.

While multitasking is a critical skill, it often requires training and experience. New bartenders might need practice and guidance to develop this ability, and it should be a key focus in their training.