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Bartending Events Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Events Assistant

Bend, OR · On-site

$19/hr

A Day in the Life Responsibilities include event set up and tear down, bartending, general event support, spreading overall joy and positivity, and possibly soaking up some tunes in the Central ...

Have reliable transportation to and from events * Speak fluent English and write basic English * Must be okay working in a smoke-free environment * Food handler and bartending certifications a plus

Part time bartenders needed to work private events. Bartending experience needed. Must be friendly, outgoing, organized, and able to work weekends. We are an equal opportunity employer and all ...

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How much do bartending events jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for bartending events in the United States is $15.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $9.62 and $18.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are bartending events?

Bartending events refer to occasions where a professional bartender is hired to serve drinks, craft cocktails, and sometimes provide entertainment at private or public gatherings. These events can include weddings, corporate parties, birthdays, festivals, and other special occasions. Bartenders at these events are responsible for setting up the bar area, mixing and serving beverages, ensuring responsible alcohol service, and often engaging with guests to create a fun atmosphere. Bartending events may be organized by catering companies, event planners, or venues, and can range from casual to upscale depending on the client's needs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Bartending Events professional, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Bartending Events professional, you generally need strong mixology skills, knowledge of drink recipes, and any required alcohol server certifications. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems, inventory management tools, and bar equipment is typically necessary. Outstanding customer service, multitasking, and communication skills help you excel in fast-paced, social event environments. These competencies ensure efficient service, guest satisfaction, and adherence to safety and legal standards during events.

What are some common challenges bartenders face when working at events compared to traditional bar settings?

Bartenders at events often encounter unique challenges, such as adapting quickly to varying venues, managing high-volume crowds within limited timeframes, and working with a set selection of ingredients or equipment. Unlike a traditional bar, event bartenders may need to set up and break down mobile bars, coordinate with event organizers, and ensure smooth service in unfamiliar environments. Flexibility, strong organizational skills, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential for success in these dynamic settings.

What is the difference between Bartending Events vs Barbacks?

AspectBartending EventsBarbacks
CredentialsValid bartending license or certification often requiredNo specific certification typically needed
Work EnvironmentEvent venues, parties, weddings, festivalsBars, clubs, restaurants, assisting bartenders
Employer & Industry UsageEvent staffing agencies, catering companiesBars, nightclubs, restaurants
Job RoleMixing drinks, serving guests, engaging with attendeesSupporting bartenders, restocking supplies, cleaning

While both roles are essential in the beverage service industry, bartending events focus on serving drinks directly to guests at various events, requiring bartending skills and certifications. Barbacks support bartenders by handling behind-the-scenes tasks, often working in bars or clubs. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position based on their skills and career goals.

More about Bartending Events jobs
What cities are hiring for Bartending Events jobs? Cities with the most Bartending Events job openings:
What states have the most Bartending Events jobs? States with the most job openings for Bartending Events jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Bartending Events jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Bartending Events jobs are:
Infographic showing various Bartending Events job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 25% As Needed, 25% Full Time, 25% Part Time, and 25% Temporary. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,085 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Catering Barback | Part-Time | Iowa Events Center

Oak View Group

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$17/hr

Part-time

Retirement

Posted 7 days ago


Oak View Group rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 78 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

19th of 35 rated event venues


Job description

Oak View Group
Oak View Group (OVG) is the global leader in premium live entertainment infrastructure and services, with a platform spanning venue development and end-to-end capabilities across venue management, hospitality, and sponsorship sales. Founded in 2015, the company serves a collection of seven world-class owned venues and a client roster of the most iconic arenas, stadiums, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions, spanning four continents.
Position Summary
The Catering Barback is responsible for having bars set up & prepped prior to catered events. The Catering Barback will assist with receiving and storage of product and will prepare & stock bars. All equipment will be maintained, stored, cleaned, and organized. The employee must maintain excellent attendance and be available to work events as scheduled per business need.
This role pays an hourly rate of $17.00 and is tip eligible.
Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching.
This position will remain open until July 24, 2026.
Responsibilities
  • Responsible for having bars moved and set up according to the Banquet Event Order (BEO) on time for catered events. This includes transitioning a bar setup to an alternate location during an event.
  • Accountable for all received inventory & product storage while maintaining a clean, safe, & organized bar area
  • Report all unsafe working conditions & injuries immediately to manager on duty (MOD)
  • Transport all required beverages to the bars for catering events, including, but not limited to, beer, wine, liquor, garnishes, ice, and mixer products.
  • Responsible for prep, stock, and re-stock of all assigned bars, including changing out assigned kegs.
  • Responsible for completing accurate transfer paperwork with bartender every time an item is stocked
  • Responsible for cleaning, sanitizing & organizing work spaces, as well as garbage disposal
  • Communicate with guests, co-workers, and MOD in a respectful manner
  • Monitors guest activity in accordance with company policy disallowing outside beverages
  • Learn beverage products when training is available, including beer, wine, & liquor products
  • May assist the assigned bartender in serving beverages as required by the MOD. Must check guest's ID in accordance with state/federal regulations to verify minimum age requirement for the purchase of alcoholic beverages. The barback must serve alcoholic beverages responsibly in accordance with company policy, including, on occasion, "slowing down" or "cutting off" beverage service to certain guests.

Qualifications
  • Six months' experience bar-backing or in a similar position in a restaurant or related food industry preferred.
  • High school diploma or GED preferred.
  • Detail-oriented, able to multi-task, and effectively prioritize in a continuously changing event environment.
  • Ability to be self-directed on tasks as well as work with a team.
  • Ability to work a flexible event-based schedule, including nights & weekends.

Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference
At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis ("protected class") including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.

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