Barback

A Barback is the assistant to the Bartender at a restaurant, bar or catered event. In this position, you complete whatever tasks need done so that the Bartender doesn’t have to leave his or her position at the well.

Duties include slicing garnishes and refilling olive containers, making sure the celery and straws are full, and washing glasses. You support the Bartender by replacing blown kegs, carbon dioxide cartridges, and empty liquor bottles. This requires a strong back and confident attitude. Once the Bartender has all the supplies he or she needs, you assist at the bar by taking orders, plucking empty glasses from the counter, wiping down the bar, and collecting unattended tips for the tip jar. You help the Bartender with clean-up before calling it a night…or, more likely, early morning.

After the last drink is served, you receive a percentage (generally 15-20%) of the Bartender’s tips. So, it is in your best interest to support him/her in every way possible. It means money out of your pocket if the Bartender has to leave his or her station to get supplies or refill a bottle.

Barback is a great position for someone starting out who wishes to move into Bartending. So, if you’re a night owl “who” enjoys working with people in a fast-paced environment, becoming a Barback might be the place to start.