What legal or compliance information belongs 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.

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 include specific legal and compliance details to ensure both you and the potential candidates understand the legal requirements. This includes any necessary certifications, health and safety regulations, and legal obligations related to serving alcohol.

Common misunderstanding: It’s enough to just mention that the job involves serving alcohol.

Simply stating that the job involves alcohol isn't sufficient. You must specify any legal certifications or training required, such as holding a valid alcohol serving certificate or completing a responsible service of alcohol course.

Common misunderstanding: Compliance details can be discussed after hiring.

It's crucial to outline compliance requirements in the job description to attract candidates who are already qualified or willing to meet these standards before they apply, ensuring a smoother hiring process and compliance with the law from day one.

Do I need to mention age restrictions or licensing requirements?

Yes, mentioning age restrictions and licensing requirements is essential. In many places, there are legal age limits for serving alcohol, and bartenders may need specific licenses. Clearly stating these requirements helps prevent applications from those who are not legally eligible to work as bartenders.

Common misunderstanding: Age restrictions are the same for all hospitality jobs.

Age restrictions can vary significantly between different types of hospitality roles, especially in roles involving alcohol. Always specify the legal age requirement for serving alcohol in your location.

Common misunderstanding: All bartenders need the same type of license.

Licensing requirements can differ based on the location and the type of establishment. Specify whether your venue requires a special bartender license or if a general hospitality license is sufficient.

How do I show candidates we take food and alcohol safety seriously?

To demonstrate your commitment to food and alcohol safety in your job description, highlight any relevant training programs you offer, such as food handling certifications or alcohol responsibility courses. Also, mention your establishment's policies on these matters and how strictly they are enforced.

Common misunderstanding: Safety training is only for kitchen staff.

While kitchen staff certainly need safety training, bartenders also handle consumables and therefore must be trained in food and alcohol safety to prevent contamination and ensure safe service.

Common misunderstanding: Mentioning safety makes the job seem less appealing.

On the contrary, emphasizing a commitment to safety standards can attract candidates who value professionalism and wish to work in a responsible, reputable environment.