Hiring a Barback: Job Description Template

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How to Hire a Barback

Hiring the right Barback is crucial for the efficient functioning of any bar or restaurant. This comprehensive guide outlines the step-by-step process to help you find and onboard an efficient and qualified Barback:

1. Define Your Barback Requirements

Before diving into the hiring process, it’s essential to have a clear understanding of your bar’s specific needs and requirements. 

Start by closely examining the core elements of your bar’s functioning:

• What are your service objectives?

• Who comprises your primary customer base?

• What types of drinks and beverages will the Barback be responsible for supporting?

• Are they anticipated to assist bartenders during busy periods, maintain the bar area, and ensure a seamless service flow?

• What qualities are essential for being successful in this role?

• What duties and responsibilities do you expect your Barback to complete?

Having answers to these queries can help you gain insights into the skills, attributes, and experience necessary for success in the role.

By thoroughly defining your Barback needs, you can create a solid foundation for the rest of the hiring process. This clarity will guide your Barback job description, candidate evaluation, and the overall success of your Barback’s role within your establishment.

2. Look for Talented Barbacks

Finding talented Barbacks to join your team is essential for maintaining the high standards of your bar’s service. Here are some effective places to search for top-notch Barback candidates:

• Industry-Specific Websites and Job Boards: Websites and forums dedicated to the hospitality industry, such as ProBrewer for the brewing industry, Hcareers, Poached or Barista Hustle for the coffee industry, can be excellent places to find professionals seeking opportunities in related fields like bartending and barbacking.

• Networking Events: Attend local hospitality or industry networking events where you can connect with professionals in the bar and restaurant industry.

• Referrals: Encourage your current staff to refer candidates they know personally or through their professional networks. Employee referrals often yield high-quality candidates more likely to fit well within your team.

• Recruitment Agencies: Partnering with recruitment agencies that specialize in the hospitality industry can help you find pre-screened and qualified candidates who match your requirements. For instance, you can use agencies like Gecko Hospitality, Horizon Hospitality, or Hospitality Staffing Solutions to hire professional Barback.

• Local Events and Competitions: Attend local bartending competitions, cocktail events, or industry gatherings. These events can provide opportunities to observe potential Barbacks and identify those genuinely interested in the industry.

By exploring these places, you can increase your chances of finding skilled and motivated Barbacks who can contribute to the success and reputation of your bar.

Remember to showcase your bar’s unique offerings and culture to attract the right candidates who align with your vision.

3. Evaluate Their Educational Qualifications

The educational qualifications when hiring a Barback can vary depending on the establishment and your specific requirements. Search for candidates with the following educational background:

• High School Diploma or GED: Most Barback positions typically require a diploma or General Educational Development (GED) certificate. These qualifications ensure that candidates have the basic education and communication skills.

• Hospitality or Culinary Courses: Candidates with formal education or training in hospitality, culinary arts, or related fields can demonstrate a foundational understanding of the industry.

• Bartending School: While not always mandatory, attending a bartending school or course can provide candidates with relevant knowledge about bar operations, mixing techniques, and beverage preparation. This can be especially valuable in establishments where barbacks are expected to assist bartenders with drink preparation.

• Food Handling Certification: Depending on local regulations and the specific tasks involved, having a food handling certification can indicate a candidate’s understanding of hygiene and safety standards in a hospitality environment.

Consider the qualifications that best align with your barback position’s requirements and the level of expertise needed to contribute effectively to your establishment’s operations.

4. Validate Their Work Experience

When evaluating candidates for the Barback position, investigate their work history to ascertain their suitability. 

Look for relevant industry experience that demonstrates their familiarity with bar operations and the demands of the hospitality sector. Prior experience in bars, restaurants, or similar establishments can provide valuable insights into their ability to handle fast-paced environments and navigate the unique challenges of the job.

Lastly, consider their career progression – whether they have shown growth and development in their previous roles, as this can indicate their potential for contributing to your bar’s success.

By thoroughly evaluating a candidate’s work experience in these aspects, you can make informed hiring decisions that lead to a capable and effective Barback that positively impacts your bar’s operations and customer satisfaction.

5. Conduct an Interview Process

Conducting a comprehensive interview can evaluate a candidate’s fit for the Barback role. Focus on preparing thoughtful interview questions that delve into their relevant experience, customer service skills, and ability to handle high-pressure situations. 

During the interview, pose situational scenarios to assess their problem-solving and adaptability and inquire about their approach to customer interactions. Gauge their teamwork and communication skills, ensuring they can collaborate effectively with bartenders and colleagues.

This thorough assessment will help you make a well-informed decision and select a candidate who positively contributes to your bar’s success.

6. Focus on Reference Verification

Before finalizing your hiring decision for a Barback, it’s essential to cross-verify the information candidates provide. Contact their listed references to gain insights into their work ethic, reliability, and interpersonal skills. It helps you understand whether the candidate is lying on their resume or telling the truth.

This step helps validate the candidate’s claims and clarifies their performance in previous roles. Additionally, conducting thorough reference checks is crucial to ensuring the safety and reputation of your establishment. 

Here are some questions we recommend you ask a reference:

• Can you describe the Barback’s attendance and punctuality? Were they dependable and consistent in showing up for their shifts?

• How well did the Barback handle busy shifts or unexpected situations? Can you give an example?

• How did the Barback interact with other staff, especially bartenders? Were there any conflicts, and if so, how were they resolved?