Also called: bar back, bar assistant
What a barback does
Barbacks keep the bar running so bartenders can focus on guests and drinks. They restock ice, liquor, beer, and garnishes, wash glassware, change kegs, and clear empties. A good barback anticipates what the bartender needs before they ask and moves quickly without getting in the way. The role is hands-on and physical, with long stretches on your feet, and it is a practical way to learn the bar from the inside while working toward a bartending position.
Pay snapshot: the BLS reports a national median of $16.34/hr for dining room and cafeteria attendants and bartender helpers, and $16.72/hr in the Boston metro. See the full salary breakdown.
Responsibilities
- Restock ice, liquor, mixers, beer, and wine before and during service
- Change kegs and keep beer lines flowing
- Cut and prep garnishes such as lemons, limes, and cherries
- Wash and polish glassware and bar tools
- Collect empties and trash from the bar and service stations
- Set up and break down the bar at open and close
- Deliver drinks and bar supplies to servers when asked
- Keep floors, mats, and bar surfaces clean and dry
- Track low stock and tell the bartender or manager early
- Follow safety and sanitation rules, including proper lifting
Requirements
- No bartending experience required, bar or restaurant experience preferred
- Ability to lift and carry kegs and cases up to the weight set by the restaurant
- Comfort working in tight, fast-moving spaces
- Minimum age to work in a bar as set by state law
- Alcohol-server training such as TIPS is often required or encouraged
- Evening, weekend, and holiday availability
Skills
- Physical stamina
- Awareness of the bartender's workflow
- Speed and efficiency
- Basic knife skills for garnishes
- Attention to cleanliness
- Teamwork and communication
- Willingness to learn bar basics
Schedule
Barbacks usually work evening and weekend shifts that start before opening for setup and run through close, with the heaviest work on Friday and Saturday nights.
Barback job posting template
Copy this, replace the bracketed parts, and post it.
Barback at [Restaurant Name], [City] About us [Restaurant Name] is a [concept] in [City] with a lively bar program. We are looking for a hard-working barback who wants to learn the bar from the ground up. What you will do - Stock ice, liquor, beer, and garnishes - Change kegs and keep the bar clean - Wash glassware and clear empties - Support bartenders during rushes - Help with opening and closing duties What we are looking for - Energy, reliability, and a team attitude - Ability to lift kegs and cases and stand for a full shift - Bar or restaurant experience a plus, not required - Alcohol-server training (such as TIPS) if required in [State] - A real interest in becoming a bartender Pay and perks [$XX-$XX/hr + tip share]. Paid training, shift drink, and a clear path to bartending. Shifts [Shift], including weekends. How to apply Send your info to [Email/Link], or come by [Address] and ask for [Manager Name].
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