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What does a Barback do?

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Published 3 min read

A barback is a person who assists the bartender in a bar or nightclub. They are responsible for keeping the bar stocked with liquor, glasses, and other supplies, and for cleaning up the bar area.

Barback job duties include:

  • Restocking supplies of napkins, straws, and other bar needs
  • Sweeping and mopping the floor around the bar area
  • Wiping down the bar counter and stools
  • Cleaning all glassware used by bartenders and customers
  • Emptying trash cans and taking out garbage
  • Washing used dishes and utensils
  • Assisting bartenders in making drinks
  • Serving food to customers sitting at the bar
  • Checking ID’s to ensure customers are of legal drinking age
  • Answering customer questions and providing them with information about menu items

Barback Job Requirements

Most barbacks have at least a high school diploma, although some jobs may require postsecondary education, such as a certificate or associate degree in hospitality or bartending. Many barbacks gain on-the-job training through apprenticeships or other types of hands-on training. Some states have certification programs for barbacks, which may require completing a certain number of hours of work experience and passing an exam.

Barback Skills

  • Pouring drinks
  • Stocking supplies
  • Cleaning glasses and bar
  • Assisting bartenders
  • Preparing garnishes
  • Restocking liquor shelves
  • Organizing bar area
  • Helping customers
  • Checking IDs
  • Collecting payments
  • Opening and closing duties

Related: Top Barback Skills: Definition and Examples

How to become a Barback

A barback is an important member of a bar or restaurant team. They are responsible for keeping the bar organized and stocked, and for helping the bartenders make drinks. If you are interested in becoming a barback, there are a few things you should know.

First, it is important to be organized and efficient. A barback needs to be able to keep the bar area clean and tidy, and to know where everything is so that they can quickly restock when necessary. They also need to be able to keep track of inventory and order supplies as needed.

Second, it is important to be able to work well under pressure. A busy bar can be chaotic, and a good barback needs to be able to stay calm and focused in order to keep things running smoothly.

Third, it is important to have good people skills. A barback interacts with customers and other staff members on a regular basis, so it is important to be friendly and professional at all times.

If you have these qualities and are interested in pursuing a career as a barback, there are a few things you can do to get started. First, look for open positions at bars or restaurants in your area. You can also reach out to bartenders or other staff members that you know and ask if they have any recommendations or advice. Finally, consider taking some bartending classes so that you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role.

Related: Barback Resume Example

Related: Barback Interview Questions (With Example Answers)

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Editor

Brenna Goyette

Expert Verified

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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