How should I start writing 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.

Begin by describing your bar's unique atmosphere and the type of customer base it attracts. This helps potential candidates understand the environment they might be working in and sets the tone for the rest of the job description.

Common misunderstanding: A job description should start with duties and responsibilities.

Starting directly with duties might miss giving a sense of the workplace culture and environment, which is crucial for attracting the right candidates who fit into your bar's vibe.

Common misunderstanding: The introduction is not as important as the list of responsibilities.

The introduction sets the stage and can engage potential applicants right from the start by making your venue stand out. It's essential for drawing in candidates who are a good match for your bar's atmosphere and customer interaction style.

What details should be included in the responsibilities section of a bartender job description?

Detail the key responsibilities that are divided into preparation, service, and closing duties. Be specific to your bar's operations, reflecting the actual tasks the bartender will handle daily.

Common misunderstanding: It's sufficient to use generic responsibilities in the job description.

Generic responsibilities can lead to misunderstandings about the job's actual demands and might attract unqualified applicants. Tailoring the job description to reflect specific duties ensures you attract candidates capable of handling the tasks required at your venue.

Common misunderstanding: All bartender jobs have the same responsibilities.

Responsibilities can vary significantly depending on the type of bar, its size, and customer service style. It's important to outline duties that are unique to your setting to ensure candidates know what to expect and can self-assess their suitability.

How can I effectively describe the skills required for a bartender position?

Identify and list the essential skills necessary for handling the equipment and service style of your bar. Distinguish between must-have skills and those that are nice to have, which can be developed over time.

Common misunderstanding: All bartending positions require the same skills.

Skills needed can vary greatly depending on the bar's focus. For example, a craft cocktail bar may require different skills compared to a high-volume sports bar. It's crucial to specify which skills are necessary for your particular setting.

Common misunderstanding: It's unnecessary to differentiate between essential and preferred skills.

Clarifying which skills are essential and which are preferred helps manage applicants' expectations and ensures you attract candidates who meet the core requirements of the position while also being open to those who can grow into the role.