Occupation Profile for Bartenders

Mix and serve drinks to patrons, directly or through waitstaff.

Most jobs are part time and have few educational requirements, attracting many young people to the occupation—more than one-fifth of these workers were 16 to 19 years old, about five times the proportion for all workers.
Job openings are expected to be abundant through 2016, which will create excellent opportunities for jobseekers.
Tips comprise a major portion of earnings, so keen competition is expected for jobs in fine dining and more popular restaurants where potential tips are greatest.

Core — Collect money for drinks served.
Core — Check identification of customers to verify age requirements for purchase of alcohol.
Core — Attempt to limit problems and liability related to customers' excessive drinking by taking steps such as persuading customers to stop drinking, or ordering taxis or other transportation for intoxicated patrons.
Core — Clean glasses, utensils, and bar equipment.
Core — Take beverage orders from serving staff or directly from patrons.

Performing for or Working Directly with the Public — Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships — Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events — Identifying information by categorizing, estimating, recognizing differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
Communicating with Persons Outside Organization — Communicating with people outside the organization, representing the organization to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
Getting Information — Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.