Bartender
Prepare and serve drinks in a bar or other licenced premises.
Job opportunities
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Jobs in SEEK right nowJob growth
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In the last 3 monthsSalary
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Typical salaryJob satisfaction
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Job opportunities
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Jobs in SEEK right nowSalary
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Typical salaryJob growth
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In the last 3 monthsJob satisfaction
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On this page
- What's it like to be a Bartender?
- How to become a Bartender
- Top skills and experience for Bartenders
- Is Bartender the right role for you?
- Bartender role reviews
What's it like to be a Bartender?
A Bartender (Kaitiaki Pae Inu) serves customers in licenced premises including pubs, bars, clubs and hotels. They greet customers, mix drinks, check identification, collect and wash glassware, manage stock levels, process transactions and assist with cleaning duties. Bartenders often work on a part-time or casual basis including shifts on nights and weekends. They may work in noisy environments and be required to refuse service to intoxicated customers.
Tasks and duties
- Preparing, mixing and serving cocktails, wine, beer, cider, soft drinks, water and coffee.
- Cleaning and maintaining a bar area, especially where food and drinks are prepared.
- Taking and handling payments for orders.
- Collecting and washing glasses.
- Tapping kegs and cleaning beer lines.
- Maintaining compliance with liquor regulations and workplace health and safety laws.
- Liaising with a Bar Manager and security if an incident occurs.
How to become a Bartender
You can become a Bartender without qualifications, but certificates are required to serve drinks in a licenced premises.
Get your Licence Controller Qualification (LCQ) via the online application process.
Once you have your LCQ, you can apply for a Manager’s Certificate via your local council.
Consider completing a qualification to enhance your hospitality career options, such as the New Zealand Diploma in Hospitality Management (Level 5). This is a one-year, full-time course.
Latest Bartender jobs on SEEK
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Skills and experience employers are looking for
Having the right skills and experience can make you an in-demand applicant. Bartender employers on SEEK are looking for job seekers with expertise in the following areas. Cocktail Preparation
Bartending
Licence Controller Qualification
Hospitality
Food and Beverage Services
Neat Personal Presentation
Customer Service
Food Service
Coffee Brewing
Wine Knowledge
Resilience
Hygienic
Front of House
Communication Skills
Multitasking
Guest Experience
Waiting Tables
POS Systems
Team Work
Glass
Source: SEEK job ads and SEEK Profile data
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Latest Bartender reviews
Mar 2025
My experience as a bartender has been a dynamic blend of creativity, customer interaction, and managing the fast-paced energy of a lively environment.
Reviewer's QualificationBachelor of Commerce (Marketing)
Experience1 – 4 years
Organisation sizeMedium (20-199 employees)
SpecialisationHospitality & Tourism
The good thingsI appreciate the social interaction, meeting new people, and creating an inviting atmosphere. The ability to showcase creativity through drink-making and having a role in the energy of the space is ap...
The challengesdealing with difficult or unruly customers, long hours, or the physical strain of standing for extended periods. Sometimes also the late nights and dealing with tips.
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Jul 2025
It’s not always glamorous, but it’s taught me resilience, communication, and how to have fun while working hard.
Experience1 – 4 years
Organisation sizeSmall (1-19 employees)
SpecialisationHospitality & Tourism
The good thingsThe good things
If you enjoy connecting with people and creating a great vibe, bartending at a small local bar can be super rewarding. You get to know the regulars, share a laugh, and build a little c...
The challengesThe challenges
You’ll definitely come across a few difficult customers, whether it’s someone who’s had one too many or just brings bad energy into the bar. It’s part of the job, but it can take a toll...
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SEEK has not verified the truth or accuracy of these comments and does not adopt or endorse any of the comments posted on this page.SEEK collects and posts the comments for what they are worth and for information purposes only to assist candidates to find employment through nz.seek.com
