Bartenders fill the drink orders taken by waiters and waitresses or from customers seated at the bar. Because some people like their cocktails made a certain way, bartenders are occasionally asked to mix drinks to suit a customer's taste. Most bartenders must know dozens of drink recipes and be able to mix drinks accurately, quickly and without waste, even during the busiest periods. Besides mixing and serving drinks, bartenders collect payment, operate the cash register, clean up after customers and may also serve food items to customers seated at the bar. Some bartenders acquire their skills by attending a bartending school or taking vocational and technical school courses that include instruction on state and local laws and regulations, cocktail recipes, attire and conduct, and stocking a bar.
Some schools help their graduates find jobs.
Moderate growth in job openings for bartenders, as consumption of alcohol outside the home is expected to decline. Job openings will be available as a result of the need to replace the high proportion of workers who leave this occupation every year. There is substantial movement into and out of the occupation because the limited formal education and training requirements allow easy entry. Bartenders derive their earnings from a combination of hourly wages and tips. Potential earnings are greatest in popular restaurants and fine dining establishments.