20 Bart Interview Questions and Answers

Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) is a rapid transit public transportation system serving the San Francisco Bay Area in California. BART operates five routes on 104 miles of track connecting 46 stations, including four transbay tube stations.

If you’re applying for a job at BART, you can expect to be asked a variety of questions about your qualifications, work history, and availability. In this guide, we’ve assembled a list of BART interview questions and answers to help you prepare for your interview.

Bart Interview Process

The interview process at Bart can be lengthy, and may take up to two months or more to complete. It typically starts with a written examination, followed by a situational awareness test and panel interview. Candidates may also be required to take a physical ability test.

1. Do you have any experience working in a fast-paced environment?

Bartenders often work in a fast-paced environment, so employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable with that type of work. Bartending is also a physically demanding job, so they may want to know if you have any experience working in those conditions. When answering this question, it can be helpful to talk about a time when you worked in a fast-paced environment and how you handled it.

Example: “I’ve worked as a bartender for the past five years, so I’m very familiar with working in a fast-paced environment. In my last position, we were usually quite busy, which meant there was always something to do. However, I got used to it after a while and learned how to multitask effectively. I think I would be able to handle a similar situation well.”

2. Can you tell me about a time when you had to work with someone that was difficult, how did you handle it?

Bartenders often work with a variety of people, including customers and coworkers. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle working with others in a fast-paced environment. Use your answer to show that you are willing to help others when they need it. Showcase your communication skills by explaining how you helped the person or group.

Example: “I once worked with a coworker who was very quiet. I noticed he would get overwhelmed if there were too many customers at once. Instead of asking him questions about his behavior, I decided to try to be more friendly toward him. I asked him questions about himself and tried to include him in conversations. After a few weeks, he started talking more and even offered advice to other bartenders.”

3. What do you know about BART’s safety policies and procedures?

Bartenders need to be aware of the safety policies and procedures in place at their workplace. This question is your opportunity to show that you understand these policies and how they can help keep customers safe. You can answer this question by describing a time when you followed BART’s policies and helped ensure the safety of others.

Example: “I know that bartenders are required to check IDs for anyone who looks under 30, and I always do so. In my last position, I was working one night when two men came up to me and asked if I could make them some drinks without alcohol. I checked their IDs and saw that they were both over 21, but I still explained our policy to them. They understood and left the bar.”

4. How would you deal with an upset customer?

Bartenders often have to deal with customers who are upset about something. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to diffuse a situation and keep it from escalating. In your answer, explain that you would try to understand the customer’s problem and help them feel better. You can also mention that you would apologize if you made a mistake.

Example: “I once had a customer who ordered a drink that I accidentally gave to someone else. The customer was very upset when they realized their drink was gone, but I apologized and offered to make them another one for free. They were happy with that solution and left me a good tip.”

5. Are you comfortable driving at night?

Bartenders often work late hours, so employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable driving home at night. If you have a long commute, be honest about how you feel about it and what you do to stay safe.

Example: “I’m very comfortable driving at night. I’ve been doing it for years now, and I always keep my eyes on the road and drive safely. However, if I ever got tired while driving, I would pull over immediately and take a break until I felt alert again. I know that safety is more important than getting home quickly.”

6. Where do you see yourself in five years?

Employers ask this question to see if you have a long-term career plan. Bartenders are often promoted to management positions, so employers want to know that you’re interested in growing with the company. When answering this question, be honest about your career goals and how bartending can help you achieve them.

Example: “I would love to own my own bar one day. I think working as a bartender is an excellent way to learn more about running a business. I’ve been bartending for three years now, and I’m excited to continue learning new skills and techniques. I hope to work here until I save enough money to open my own place.”

7. Why are you interested in this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your intentions for applying. Bartenders are often the face of a bar, so employers want to make sure you’re interested in representing their establishment well. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific aspects of the job listing that attracted you to apply. This shows that you read through the job description and understand what is expected of you as an employee.

Example: “I’m interested in this position because I love working with people. I find bartending to be a fun way to interact with customers while also making sure they have a good time. I’ve worked as a bartender before, and I really enjoy being able to help someone create a unique drink or cocktail. I think I would be a great fit for this role.”

8. Describe your experience with taking initiative.

Bartenders often need to take initiative when their customers are in need of assistance. Bartenders may also be responsible for ordering supplies and ensuring the bar is stocked with drinks, so employers ask this question to ensure you have experience taking initiative. In your answer, explain a time when you took initiative at work or another job.

Example: “At my previous bartending job, I noticed that we were running low on several types of liquor. Rather than waiting until our shift was over, I asked one of my coworkers if they could cover me while I went to the store to buy more alcohol. They agreed, and I bought enough alcohol to last us through the rest of the night. My employer appreciated my initiative, and it helped them save money.”

9. If hired, what is the first thing you would change about BART?

This question is a great way to see how you would fit in with the current team. Bartenders are often creative and innovative, so your answer should show that you have ideas for improving BART’s service or operations.

Example: “The first thing I would change about BART is the music. It seems like there is always the same playlist, which gets old after a while. I think it would be fun to switch up the music every week or two. Maybe we could even get local bands to play at BART on certain nights.”

10. How well can you multitask?

Bartenders often need to multitask, such as taking orders and making drinks at the same time. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle a busy work environment. In your answer, explain how you have handled multiple tasks in the past. Explain that you are confident you can do so again if needed.

Example: “I am very good at multitasking. I’ve worked in many high-pressure environments where I had to take orders, make drinks and interact with customers all at once. I find it easy to balance multiple tasks because I am organized and efficient. If I get overwhelmed, I know I can always delegate some of my responsibilities to other bartenders.”

11. Tell us about a time when you were under pressure and still able to perform well.

Bartenders often work in high-pressure environments. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle the stress of working behind a bar and still provide excellent customer service. In your answer, share an example from your previous bartending experience or another job where you had to perform well under pressure.

Example: “When I was bartending at my last job, we were hosting a large event with many attendees. The night before the event, one of our main mixers broke. We didn’t have time to order a new one, so I had to learn how to use a different mixer that evening. It took me a few tries to get used to it, but by the end of the night, I was able to serve drinks just as quickly as I did with the other mixer.”

12. Give an example of a time where you were part of a team project, describe your role.

Bartenders often work in teams to ensure that customers receive the best service. Employers ask this question to learn more about your teamwork skills and how you interact with others. When answering, try to describe a specific situation where you helped your team achieve a goal or overcome an obstacle.

Example: “When I worked at my previous bar, we had a busy night on Friday nights. The bartenders would get so busy that it was hard for us to take breaks. One time, our manager asked us if there was anything we could do to help each other out. We decided to switch up who served which drinks every hour. This allowed us all to take a break every hour and still serve our customers.”

13. How would you approach a situation if you saw another employee not following company policy?

Bartenders often have to deal with other employees who may not be following company policy. Employers ask this question to make sure you know how to handle these situations in a professional way. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to address the situation and ensure it doesn’t happen again.

Example: “If I saw another employee breaking company policy, I would first try to speak with them privately about the issue. If they were aware of their mistake but continued to do it, I would report the incident to my manager so that they could handle it. If the employee was unaware of their actions, I would help them understand why it’s against company policy and offer to train them on proper procedures.”

14. Have you ever worked for a public transportation agency before?

Bartenders often work in bars, restaurants and other establishments that are close to public transportation. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working for a company like theirs before. Bartending is similar to working as a bus driver or train conductor because both jobs require excellent customer service skills. Show the employer that you understand how important it is to treat customers well.

Example: “I’ve never worked for a public transportation agency before, but I do have experience bartending at a bar near a train station. The bar was always busy on Friday nights when people got off work. I learned how to multitask while serving drinks and making food orders. It definitely helped me develop my communication and problem-solving skills.”

15. What do you think makes a good leader?

Bartenders often need to lead their staff and customers. Employers ask this question to see if you have the qualities of a good leader. Use your answer to explain what makes someone a good leader. Share some specific examples of leaders in your life who inspired you.

Example: “I think a good leader is someone who can inspire others to do their best work. A great leader knows how to motivate people, which helps them achieve goals. I’ve worked for several managers like that in my bartending career. One manager always knew when we needed a little extra motivation. She would give us small rewards for reaching our goals or doing something well. This helped me feel motivated to do my job well.”

16. What do you think is the most important quality for a train operator to have?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to assess your critical thinking skills and how you prioritize tasks. Your answer should show that you understand what’s important in this role, but it can also be an opportunity to highlight any unique qualities or experiences that make you a good fit for the job.

Example: “I think the most important quality for a train operator is attention to detail. Train operators need to be able to notice when something isn’t right with the tracks or other parts of the system so they can fix it before there are any problems. I’ve worked as a train operator for five years, and my ability to pay close attention to details has helped me avoid many accidents.”

17. What kind of training do you feel is necessary for a successful engineer?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have the necessary skills and training for a bartending position. They want to know that you are qualified for the job, so they might ask about your education and experience in engineering. When answering this question, consider what kind of training or certification you received while working as an engineer.

Example: “I feel that my degree in mechanical engineering has prepared me well for this role. I learned how to use many different types of software and equipment, which is helpful when troubleshooting problems at work. I also think it’s important to be able to communicate effectively with other engineers and technicians. This skill helps me collaborate with others on projects and solve problems more efficiently.”

18. Why should we hire you over other candidates?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can benefit their business. Before your interview, make a list of three or four reasons why you are the best candidate for the bartending position. Think about what skills you have that other candidates might not.

Example: “I am passionate about providing excellent customer service and making sure everyone has a great time at the bar. I also understand the importance of following all safety regulations when mixing drinks and serving alcohol. Another reason is that I am highly organized and detail-oriented, which makes me an efficient bartender who can serve customers quickly.”

19. What do you think is the most challenging aspect of being a station agent?

Bartenders often have to work quickly and efficiently, so employers ask this question to see if you can handle a fast-paced environment. Bartending is also a customer service job, so they want to make sure you’re comfortable with that aspect of the position. In your answer, try to show that you understand what it’s like to be in a busy bar while still showing enthusiasm for the challenge.

Example: “I think the most challenging part of being a bartender is when there are multiple orders at once. It’s important to get each drink out as quickly as possible, but I always strive to do it in a way that makes the customer happy. Sometimes, that means taking a little longer on one order to ensure the other drinks are made correctly.”

20. Why do you want to work at BART?

Bartenders need to be friendly and outgoing, but they also have to know how to make a variety of drinks. Bartenders should also be able to work quickly and efficiently while maintaining their positive attitude. Employers ask this question to see if you are passionate about bartending as a career. In your answer, explain why you enjoy working in the bar industry. Explain what drew you to this job listing.

Example: “I want to work at BART because I love interacting with people. I am always excited to meet new customers and help them have a good time. I think bartending is an excellent way to use my communication skills. I am also very creative when it comes to making unique cocktails. I would love to show off some of my skills here.”