How to Write a Barback Job Description (Duties, Responsibilities)

How to Write a Barback Job Description (Duties, Responsibilities)

A Barback is a right-hand person to the bartender, making this role invaluable to any successful drinking establishment. While the bartender is deftly shaking that specialty Martini or pouring the perfect pint, the Barback is feverishly working behind the scenes. 

This person ensures that all the supplies are in place, the garnishes are cut, and the liquor bottles are full so the customer has a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience. Barbacks are assistant or junior roles and often a training ground for future bartenders and bar managers. 

Whether it is a nightclub, restaurant, or even a coffee house, many barbacks rise through the ranks through a strong work ethic and dedication. Successful candidates are organized and flexible enough to handle any obstacles during service. If the bar area runs out of ice or a beer keg is getting low, it’s up to the barback to jump in and replenish supplies without being asked. In addition to stocking the bar, they are the key to a tidy and pleasant drinking environment. 

Barbacks oversee the cleaning and sanitizing of the bar area, from wiping down counters to mopping the floors before closing time. When creating a Barback job description, desired qualities to highlight are good communication, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to work.

List of Duties for the Job

Stock the service area

Barbacks juggle many tasks, and without strong organizational skills, they can quickly lose track of important details. To stay caught up, the best barbacks keep an eye on customers and anticipate supply needs based on service activity. 

They’re in charge of keeping the bar stocked with liquor, beer, spirits, garnishes, ice cubes, and other essentials. They ensure that glasses, stirrers, shakers, strainers, and other bartending tools are clean and in the proper position for the bartenders. The organized barback can find items quickly and keeps the operation running smoothly.

Clean and sanitize

Rarely does a barback have the chance to move at a leisurely pace and focus on one thing at a time. After the supplies have been refreshed, there are counters to wipe, glasses to wash, and spills to clean up. 

It’s up to the barback to ensure the service area is clear of debris and spills so customers can enjoy their time and the bartenders can provide top-notch service. 

Depending on the establishment, their responsibilities can extend to mopping the floors, taking out the trash, and sometimes cleaning the bathrooms.

Handle basic prep work

Savvy barbacks are multi-taskers and can pivot on a moment’s notice when a need arises. They must take changes in stride and know how to prioritize effectively. 

If the bartender suddenly requests sliced lemons or a salted rim on a margarita glass, the barback should be ready to jump in and complete the task. A familiarity with knife safety is especially handy in this position, as is a knowledge of mixology, bars, and service.

Barback Job Description Sample

To make it easier to create a barback job description, here’s a sample you can use. 

Job Title: Barback 

Salary: $10–$15/hour 

Tip Income: Yes 

Schedule: Full-Time (40 hours per week). Monday–Friday 

Role: We are looking for an enthusiastic Barback who has what it takes to grow with our restaurant and share in our success. You will assist the bartenders in maintaining our high service standards by ensuring the lounge, bar, and bar storage areas are stocked, clean, and organized. Strong time management and organizational skills are key to this position.

Duties: 

• Restock liquor and replace kegs 
• Clear away and wash empty glasses and plate ware 
• Refill ice bins Handle basic prep work such as cutting garnishes 
• Stock and organize the bar and bar storage areas 
• Remove trash and clean up drink spills 
• Clean tables, counters, and all bar areas 
• Basic understanding of beer, wine, and spirits 
• Must be 18 years of age or older or in accordance of state law 
• Must be able to work different shifts, including holidays, nights and weekends 
• Must be able to work overtime as required

Additional requirements: Able to walk or stand for long periods. 

Tips for Writing Effective Job Descriptions

• Highlight opportunities for career growth and development at your restaurant, along with the valuable skills acquired on the job. 
• Emphasize the unique and positive aspects of your work culture that sets your restaurant apart. Is it a fun environment to work in? Do you offer full benefits?  Are meals offered every shift? 
• Provide clear expectations and minimum qualifications for the job. Barbacks are junior positions and often attract young candidates looking for experience.

Conclusion

The Barback is an entry-level role that is often a stepping stone to other positions, so enthusiasm and a strong work ethic are most important. In addition to posting on job boards, leverage your network of friends and contacts through social media and employee referrals. Remember: great people know great people.

Related Restaurant Resources

• Restaurant Assistant Manager Job Description
• Prep Cook Job Description
• Chef Job Description
• Sommelier Job Description
• Kitchen Manager Job Description
• Pastry Chef Job Description
• Restaurant General Manager Job Description
• Server Job Description
• Bartender Job Description
• Barista Job Description
• Dishwasher Job Description
• Host Job Description
• Busser Job Description
• Executive Chef Job Description
• Sous Chef Job Description
• Line Cook Job Description