Bartenders
(NOC 6512)
in All Sales and ServiceBartenders mix and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. They are employed in restaurants, hotels, bars, taverns, private clubs, banquet halls and other licensed establishments. Supervisors of bartenders are included in this group.
Job Outlook
Average
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Compared to: All Sales and Service
The employment outlook over the next few years for this occupational group is “average”, which indicates the chances of a qualified individual finding work is comparable to the average for all occupations in Nova Scotia. This is a fairly large occupation in Nova Scotia so job opportunities occur fairly regularly. The number employed in this occupation is expected to decline moderately over the next few years, which will likely limit the number of new opportunities available. With a large percent of workers being 55 years of age and older, retirements are expected to be a key contributor to employment opportunities over the coming years. Bartenders may either be working full-time or part-time hours. Furthermore, the jobs may either be permanent or temporary positions, as both are common. With employment conditions being somewhat seasonal, periods of downtime or layoff throughout the year affect some workers. Also, a fair portion of the workforce is self-employed, so having the option to "work for yourself" may appeal to some individuals’ interests/motivations.
The median employment income for 35% of Bartenders who worked full-time, year-round in 2015 was $20,075. Across all occupations in Nova Scotia, 59% of those who worked full-time year round had a median employment income of $43,600.
(Source: 2016 Census)
Hourly Pay
$11.55
Minimum$12.25
Median$22.00
MaximumAnnual Pay
$4,300
Minimum$14,865
Median$25,304
MaximumCompared to: All Sales and Service
Hourly Pay
$11.55
Minimum$12.50
Median$21.17
MaximumAnnual Pay
$2,949
Minimum$16,629
Median$45,086
MaximumAbout the job
Nature of work
Bartenders mix and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. They are employed in restaurants, hotels, bars, taverns, private clubs, banquet halls and other licensed establishments. Supervisors of bartenders are included in this group.
Job duties
Bartenders perform some or all of the following duties:
- Take beverage orders from serving staff or directly from patrons.
- Mix liquor, soft drinks, water and other ingredients to prepare cocktails and other drinks.
- Prepare mixed drinks, wine, draft or bottled beer and non-alcoholic beverages for food and beverage servers or serve directly to patrons.
- Collect payment for beverages and record sales.
- Maintain inventory and control of bar stock and order supplies.
- Clean bar area and wash glassware.
- Ensure compliance with provincial/territorial liquor legislation and regulations.
- May train and supervise other bartenders and bar staff.
- May hire and dismiss staff.
Sample job titles
- bar attendant
- bar steward
- barkeeper
- barman/barwoman
- bartender
- bartenders supervisor
- head bartender
- lounge supervisor-bartender
- managing bartender
Skills
To work in these jobs, you should be friendly, well-spoken, well-groomed, and enthusiastic about the service. Good organizational and mathematical skills are necessary. You must be pleasant to both your customers and co-workers, even when working under pressure. The ability to remember details and orders is essential. You must also be able to move gracefully and quickly. Bartenders are on their feet most of the time and often have to carry heavy trays glassware, requiring physical fitness and stamina. For some positions, knowledge of a second language is an asset.
Job requirements
- Completion of high school may be required.
- Completion of college or other program in bartending or completion of courses in mixing drinks is usually required.
- Responsible beverage service certification may be required.
Other considerations
Progression to managerial positions in food and beverage service is possible with experience.
By the numbers
Quick look
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Compared to: All Sales and Service
employed in 2016
employed full-time
self employed
median age
Where will I likely work?
Halifax
Cape Breton
Annapolis Valley
Northern
Southern
Compared to: All NS Occupations
Halifax
Northern
Annapolis Valley
Cape Breton
Southern
Top Industries of Employment
Accommodation and Food Services
Other Services
Information, Culture & Recreation
Public Administration
Educational Services
What is the age of Employment?
15-24
25-34
35-44
55-64
45-54
65+
Compared to: All Sales and Service
25-34
35-44
55-64
Top levels of education
High school
$7,957 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$12,570 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$9,979 median annual incomeLess than high school
$3,043 median annual incomeTrades certificate
N/ACompared to: All Sales and Service
High school
$12,982 median annual incomeCollege certificate or diploma
$19,514 median annual incomeLess than high school
$9,486 median annual incomeBachelor's degree
$20,807 median annual incomeTrades certificate
$18,797 median annual incomeEducation & training
Adult high school/secondary diploma programs
This program is typically offered at the high school level.The Nova Scotia School for Adult Learning (NSSAL) administers, coordinates, and supports the development and delivery of adult education programs through learning partners in Nova Scotia. Our learning partners include the Nova Scotia Community College, Adult High Schools, Université Sainte-Anne, and community-based learning organizations that offer tuition-free programming across the province. NSSAL offers clear, accessible pathways from adult basic education to a high school credential or GED, empowering Nova Scotians to achieve their learning and employment goals.
Institutions providing this program
Siège Social: 1695, Route 1
Pointe-de-l'Église, NS B0W 1M0
(902) 769-2114
PO Box 220
Halifax, NS B3J 2M4
(866) 679-6722
Various, NS
Various, NS
Bartending/bartender
This program is typically offered at the trades/college level.This instructional program class includes any program that prepares individuals to professionally prepare mixed alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and related products and manage bars, lounges, and beverage service operations in the hospitality industry. These programs include courses in mixology, oenology, accounting and cash management, inventory and cellar management, bar and lounge management, applicable laws and regulations, customer service, and labour/employment regulations.
Employment requirements & contacts
No regulating bodies were found under this occupation profile
Contacts
Additional resources
There are no additional resources for this occupation.