Barback vs. Bartender: What Are the Differences?

A barback and bartender are both positions that work in a bar setting and require customer service skills. However, there are several key differences between the two. A barback is responsible for stocking supplies and assisting the bartender, while the bartender is responsible for making and serving drinks. In this article, we compare and contrast the job duties, responsibilities and skills of a barback and bartender.

What is a Barback?

A Barback is a bartender’s assistant who helps with stocking supplies, preparing garnishes and keeping the bar area clean. They typically work in high-volume bars or restaurants where they are responsible for keeping the bartenders stocked with liquor, ice and other supplies. Barbacks also help prepare mixed drinks and cocktails by chopping fruit, measuring liquor and assembling garnishes. They may also serve drinks to guests and collect payment from customers. In some cases, Barbacks may be responsible for cleaning glasses, utensils and the bar area itself.

What is a Bartender?

Bartenders are responsible for making and serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to guests at bars, restaurants, clubs and other establishments. They must be knowledgeable about a wide range of drink recipes and be able to make them quickly and accurately. Bartenders must also be able to upsell guests on higher-priced items and keep the bar area clean and organized. They may be responsible for handling cash and credit card transactions and for keeping track of the bar’s inventory. In some cases, bartenders may also be responsible for ordering supplies and stocking the bar.

Barback vs. Bartender

Here are the main differences between a barback and a bartender.

Job Duties

Barbacks and bartenders share some job duties, such as cleaning and maintaining the bar area. However, bartenders have additional job duties that involve interacting with customers. This can include greeting customers, taking orders, making recommendations and serving drinks.

Barbacks typically only interact with employees in the back of house area where they work closely with other bar staff. They may also help servers by clearing tables and washing dishes after a meal is served with drinks.

Job Requirements

There are no formal education requirements for barbacks or bartenders, but many employers prefer candidates who have at least a high school diploma. Many bartenders learn their trade through on-the-job training, though some may choose to complete a bartending program offered by a vocational school or community college. These programs typically last a few weeks and cover topics like drink preparation, customer service and responsible alcohol serving. Some states also require bartenders to obtain a license before they can start working.

Work Environment

Bartenders work in bars, restaurants and clubs. They may also work at private events or special occasions. Barbacks typically work in bars, nightclubs, restaurants and hotels. Some barbacks may work for a catering company to help bartenders set up their stations during large events.

Both professions can work long hours, especially if they’re working on the weekends or holidays. Bartenders often work late into the night, while barbacks usually work early in the morning when the venue opens.

Skills

Both bartenders and barbacks need to have excellent customer service skills. Bartenders need to be able to take orders from customers, make recommendations and upsell when appropriate, and provide a positive experience that will encourage customers to return. Barbacks need to be able to understand and respond to customers’ needs quickly and efficiently, as they are often responsible for keeping the bar stocked and clean.

Bartenders also need to have strong mixology skills. They need to be able to make a wide variety of drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, and know how to properly measure ingredients. They also need to be aware of different drink trends and be able to create new cocktails. Barbacks typically do not need to have mixology skills, but they should know the basics of cocktail preparation so they can assist bartenders when needed.

Both bartenders and barbacks need to be able to lift heavy objects and be comfortable standing for long periods of time. Bartenders also need to have good coordination and manual dexterity, as they will be handling glassware and bottles.

Salary

The average salary for a barback is $29,714 per year, while the average salary for a bartender is $36,780 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the location of the bar, the size of the bar and the level of experience the barback or bartender has.