How to record a barback video job description

Step 1: Describe Your Bar Environment

Start your video by painting a clear picture of your bar's identity and culture. Your barback needs to understand the business they're supporting and the environment they're working in every day.

This section sets the foundation for everything that follows. When your barback understands your bar's concept, values, and way of operating, they can make better decisions and represent your business authentically.

Your goal is to help your barback understand:

• Your bar's concept and what makes it unique
• The culture and values that drive how you operate
• The operational environment and what a typical shift looks like
• How their role fits into the bigger picture of the business

Use this 3-part approach:

1. Explain Your Bar Concept and Identity

Be specific about what your bar is: "We're a bustling urban lounge / a classic cocktail bar / a casual seaside pub with lively nights..."

Share the details that bring your bar to life:

• What type of bar are you and what's your focus?
• What do you want to be known for in your area?
• Are you independent or part of a larger group?
• What makes you different from other bars nearby?

2. Share Your Culture and Values

Explain what it's like to work at your bar and the values that guide how you operate:

• "We believe in craft beverage excellence and creating genuine connections with every guest."

• "We focus on efficiency and consistency — our guests know exactly what to expect from us."

• "We're a tight-knit team where everyone supports each other, especially during busy periods."

• "Our bar is committed to sustainability by using biodegradable materials and minimising waste."

Help your barback understand the working environment:

• How does your team work together day-to-day?
• What pace do you operate at — relaxed or high-energy?
• What do you value most in how your team delivers service?
• How do you handle challenges or busy periods as a team?

3. Explain Their Place in the Business

Help your barback understand where they fit and who they work with:

• "As our barback, you're the foundation that keeps our bartenders operating at their best — without you, service would grind to a halt."

• "You'll work closely with our team of bartenders and floor staff to deliver seamless service."

• "You're the connection point between our stock room, our bar stations, and our guests' experience."

Tips if you're unsure what to say

Ask yourself these questions:

• If someone asked your team what it's like to work here, what would they say?
• What do you want your bar to be famous for?
• How would you describe a typical busy night?
• What makes a great shift at your bar?
• What's unique about how you do things compared to other bars?

Example 1: Vibrant Cocktail Bar

We're a vibrant cocktail bar known for our creative drinks and upbeat atmosphere. We serve a bustling crowd with a high energy level, and our team values precision and quick service. As our barback, you're the backbone of our operation — keeping the bartenders stocked, the stations clean, and the service flowing. We review and curate our menu every season, and we involve the whole team in tasting sessions. You'll be part of a close-knit crew that works hard during service and celebrates wins together.

Example 2: Relaxed Corner Pub

Our neighbourhood pub is a laid-back spot where locals gather to enjoy a steady pour and good conversation. We offer a variety of beers on tap and classic pub food. As our barback, you're an essential part of keeping things running smoothly — from changing kegs to keeping the bar area spotless. The team operates like a well-oiled machine, focusing on friendly service and fostering a welcoming environment. We trust each other and support each other through busy periods and quiet ones alike.

Step 2: Outline Your Key Responsibilities

This is the core of your video job description — telling your barback exactly what they're responsible for in their role. Be specific about what you expect them to own and deliver.

Avoid vague statements like "assist bartenders." Instead, be clear about the actual tasks and areas they're accountable for. This helps them understand their role and gives them clarity on what success looks like.

Your goal is to clearly communicate: "These are YOUR responsibilities in this role."

Cover 6–10 specific responsibilities, organised into clear areas:

1. Pre-Service Preparation

These are the responsibilities that get the bar ready before guests arrive:

• What needs setting up before opening?
• How is the bar prepped for service?

Example responsibilities:

• "You're responsible for restocking glassware, napkins, and garnishes before each shift"
• "You set up bar stations with ice, fruit, and all necessary supplies"
• "You ensure all equipment is clean and ready for service"
• "You conduct stock checks and flag any shortages to the bartender or manager"

2. Active Service Support

These are the day-to-day responsibilities during operational hours:

• How do you support bartenders during busy periods?
• What do you own in terms of keeping service flowing?

Example responsibilities:

• "You keep ice bins full and restock spirits and mixers as needed"
• "You collect and wash glassware to ensure bartenders never run out"
• "You change kegs and restock refrigerators throughout the shift"
• "You clear empty glasses and wipe down the bar area continuously"
• "You run food or drinks to tables when needed"

3. Post-Service Duties

These are the responsibilities focused on closing and reset:

• How do you ensure the bar is ready for the next shift?
• What cleaning and organisation tasks are yours to own?

Example responsibilities:

• "You deep clean all bar areas and equipment at the end of each shift"
• "You ensure all stock is replenished and properly stored"
• "You dispose of waste and recycling according to our procedures"
• "You secure unused perishable items in proper storage"

Tips if you're unsure what to include

If you're not sure what responsibilities to cover, ask yourself:

• What does your barback spend most of their time on?
• What would cause problems if it didn't get done?
• What do your bartenders rely on them for most?
• What tasks are critical to smooth service?

You can also ask your current barback:

• What do you see as your core responsibilities?
• What takes up most of your time each shift?
• What do you wish was clearer about your role?

Example 1: High-Volume Cocktail Bar

As our barback, here's what you're responsible for:

• You set up all bar stations before service — ice, garnishes, glassware, and backup stock
• You keep the bartenders supplied throughout service by restocking spirits, mixers, and ice without being asked
• You collect, wash, and polish glassware continuously to keep up with demand
• You change kegs and restock fridges as they empty
• You maintain cleanliness of the bar area, clearing spills and empty glasses constantly
• You assist with breaking down and deep cleaning at the end of each shift
• You ensure all stock is stored properly and the bar is reset for the next day

Example 2: Traditional Pub

As our barback, these are your responsibilities:

• You stock fridges and prep condiments before opening every day
• You replace kegs and assist with heavy lifting during service
• You keep the bar counter and seating areas clean and tidy throughout the shift
• You collect glasses from throughout the pub and run them through the wash
• You ensure bins are emptied and waste is disposed of properly
• You help with end-of-shift clean-up to ensure a smooth start for the next crew
• You flag any stock issues or equipment problems to the manager

Step 3: Explain the Skills They Need

This section tells your barback what skills are essential for their role — and importantly, how you'll help them develop those skills over time.

The goal isn't to list every possible skill, but to be clear about what matters most for success in your bar. Be honest about what they need now and what they can grow into.

Your goal is to communicate: "These are the skills that will help you succeed, and here's how we'll support your development."

1. Think about what skills matter most

Look at the responsibilities you outlined and ask what skills enable someone to do them well:

• Restocking and prep work → organisational skills and anticipation
• Supporting bartenders → teamwork and communication
• Maintaining cleanliness → attention to detail
• Working during busy service → stamina and working under pressure
• Managing multiple tasks → prioritisation and time management

2. Separate core skills from development areas

• Core skills: What they need to have now to do the job
• Development areas: Skills they can build over time with your support

Key skill areas for barbacks:

• Physical stamina and ability to lift heavy items
• Organisation and multitasking ability
• Attention to cleanliness and detail
• Teamwork and communication
• Ability to stay calm under pressure
• Anticipation of needs before being asked

Focus on what's genuinely important for your specific bar.

Example 1: High-Volume Cocktail Bar

Core skills you need:

• Physical stamina — you'll be on your feet and lifting throughout every shift
• Organisation — keeping multiple stations stocked requires constant prioritisation
• Attention to detail — cleanliness standards are high and guests notice everything
• Ability to anticipate — great barbacks see what's needed before being asked
• Communication — you need to coordinate with bartenders efficiently during busy service

Skills we'll help you develop:

• Product knowledge — we'll teach you about our spirits, cocktails, and ingredients
• Bar operations — you'll learn how everything works behind the scenes
• Cellar management — we'll train you on keg changes and stock rotation
• Career progression — many of our bartenders started as barbacks

Example 2: Traditional Pub

Core skills you need:

• Physical ability to handle kegs and stock
• Reliable and punctual — the team depends on you being there
• Organised approach to keeping the bar stocked
• Good communication with the rest of the team
• Willingness to do whatever's needed to keep service running

Skills we'll help you develop:

• Knowledge of our beer range and cellar care
• Understanding of pub operations and how everything connects
• Customer service skills for when you interact with guests
• Opportunities to learn bartending if that's your goal

Step 4: Describe the Personality Fit

Beyond skills and responsibilities, this section helps your barback understand the personal characteristics that will help them thrive in your environment.

This isn't about telling them who to be — it's about helping them understand what kind of behaviours and attitudes lead to success at your bar. It's also a chance to show them how you'll support their personal development.

Your goal is to communicate: "These are the personal characteristics that will help you succeed, and here's how we'll help you develop them."

1. Think about what makes people successful here

Consider:

• What do your best team members have in common?
• What kind of attitude thrives in your environment?
• How does your team handle pressure and challenges?
• What communication style works best with your bartenders and guests?

2. Be specific, not generic

Instead of vague phrases like "hard worker" or "team player," describe what these actually look like:

• "You notice when ice is running low and refill it before anyone has to ask"
• "You stay calm and focused when we're three deep at the bar"
• "You take pride in how clean and organised your stations are"
• "You communicate clearly with bartenders during busy service"
• "You're honest about problems rather than hiding them"

3. Consider how personality fits your environment

• In a high-volume cocktail bar: anticipation, efficiency, and composure under pressure
• In a traditional pub: reliability, friendliness, and a genuine willingness to help
• In a craft bar: attention to detail, curiosity about the craft, and pride in presentation

Example 1: Dynamic City Bar

The personality traits that will help you succeed here:

• You thrive in fast-paced environments and stay calm when it gets busy
• You take initiative — you see what needs doing and do it without being asked
• You take pride in cleanliness and organisation, even when no one's watching
• You communicate clearly and efficiently with the bar team during service
• You're reliable — the team knows they can count on you every shift
• You're curious about bartending and want to learn more about the craft

We'll support you by giving you feedback, involving you in tastings, and creating a clear path to bartending if that's your goal.

Example 2: Cosy Local Tavern

The personality traits that will help you succeed here:

• You're friendly and approachable — our regulars will get to know you
• You're dependable and consistent — the team relies on you being there
• You take ownership of your tasks and do them well
• You stay positive even during busy periods
• You're flexible and happy to help wherever needed
• You genuinely enjoy being part of a team

We'll support your development through regular feedback, opportunities to learn, and a supportive team environment.

Step 5: Define What Success Looks Like

This final section is crucial — it helps your barback understand how they'll know they're doing a great job. It's not about setting rigid KPIs, but about painting a clear picture of what success looks like in their role.

When people understand what good looks like, they can aim for it. This section gives them clarity on expectations and helps them self-assess their performance.

Your goal is to communicate: "This is how you'll know you're succeeding in this role."

1. Think about what success actually looks like

Consider both the measurable and the less tangible:

• What does a great shift look like for your barback?
• How do you know when things are going well?
• What feedback would you give them when they're excelling?
• What do the bartenders say when the barback is doing a great job?

2. Include a mix of indicators

Some things you can measure:

• Bar stations stay stocked throughout service
• Glassware never runs out
• Cleanliness standards are consistently met
• Stock is properly rotated and stored

Some things you observe:

• Bartenders can focus on guests because they trust the barback has their back
• The bar area stays clean and organised even during the busiest periods
• They anticipate needs before being asked
• They communicate well and flag issues early
• They're constantly improving and asking how to do things better

3. Be honest about what matters most

Every bar is different. Be clear about what you actually care about:

• "For us, the most important thing is that bartenders never have to stop making drinks to restock"
• "Success here means the bar looks immaculate no matter how busy we get"
• "What matters most is reliability — being there, being ready, and being consistent"

Example 1: High-Volume Cocktail Bar

You'll know you're succeeding when:

• Bartenders can focus entirely on guests because you've got everything else covered
• Stations stay stocked and ice bins stay full throughout the busiest service
• The bar area is spotless and organised, even when we're slammed
• You're anticipating what's needed and acting before anyone has to ask
• The team seeks you out because they enjoy working with you
• You're learning about our cocktails and showing genuine interest in the craft
• You feel proud of what we achieve together each night

Example 2: Traditional Pub

You'll know you're succeeding when:

• The bar runs smoothly because everything's stocked and ready
• Glasses are always clean and available, even on our busiest nights
• The team enjoys working with you and trusts you to handle your responsibilities
• Regulars start to recognise you and appreciate your contribution
• You're solving problems before they become issues
• The pub looks great and you've played a big part in that
• You're learning and growing, and the team notices your progress