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Special Event Bartender Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lunch With Tony LLC

Event Bartender

San Jose, CA

$25/hr

Experience with providing warm + efficient bar service at special events * Knowledge of general bar ... RBS certification * Prior bartending experience * Friendly and upbeat attitude is a must!

the girl & the fig, LLC

Event Bartender

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

Event Bartender ID: 1036 Location: Sonoma, California Department: the girl & the fig CATERS! Salary ... special catered events. Service is limited to beer and wine. The Perfect Candidate... * Has a ...

Wooddale Barbecue

Event Bartender

Wood Dale, IL · On-site

$17 - $23/hr

... special event brands, all working collectively together to provide our clients with proven ... Previous bartending or hospitality experience preferred. Excellent communication and interpersonal ...

Haymarket

Event Bartender

La Grange, KY

$20 - $22/hr

Event Bartender | Ashbourne Farms Showbarn | LaGrange, KY Ashbourne Farms is looking for Event ... special requests, and addressing any complaints or concerns promptly and professionally.

the girl & the fig, LLC

Event Bartender

Sonoma, CA · On-site

$19 - $27/hr

... special catered events. Service is limited to beer and wine. The Perfect Candidate... * Has a ... General catering knowledge and a minimum of one year of bartending experience Physical Demands.

Three Oaks Michigan

Event Bartender

Valparaiso, IN · On-site

... friendly Event Bartender to join our dynamic team. In this role, you'll be serving up creative ... We work hard, push forward, and are focused on growing something special! At Journeyman Distillery ...

Blue Plate Catering

Event Bartender

Chicago, IL · On-site

As an Event Bartender, you'll play a key role in making these moments come to life, ensuring every ... Check in with your supervisor to receive your bar setup details, special drink requests, and ...

Somersett Owners Association

Event Bartender

Reno, NV · On-site

Event Server/Bartender About Somersett Owners Association: Somersett is a 2,391-acre master-planned ... spills or other special needs. * Concludes dining experience by acknowledging choice of ...

Blue Plate Catering

Event Bartender

Chicago, IL · On-site

As an Event Bartender, you'll play a key role in making these moments come to life, ensuring every ... Check in with your supervisor to receive your bar setup details, special drink requests, and ...

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Special Event Bartender information

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$5

$15

$34

How much do special event bartender jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for special event bartender 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 is a special event bartender?

Special Event Bartenders are professionals hired to serve drinks at events such as weddings, corporate gatherings, parties, and festivals. They are responsible for mixing and serving alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring guests have a positive experience, and sometimes managing a temporary bar setup. Special Event Bartenders must be skilled in customer service, knowledgeable about drink recipes, and able to work efficiently in fast-paced, dynamic environments. Their role may also include checking IDs, handling cash or drink tickets, and maintaining cleanliness at the bar area.

What does a special event bartender do?

A special event bartender mixes and serves drinks during events such as weddings, private parties, corporate meetings, and similar happenings. Your duties involve making drinks to order, setting up service stations before service, and managing inventory behind the bar. As a licensed bartender, you can serve drinks as a member of the staff at an events venue; this is important for special events, because many states have laws prohibiting the service of alcohol by unlicensed persons in public spaces. You can also work for catering or party planning companies or work as an independent contractor. Employers expect you to provide customer service during the event, and your responsibilities may include cleaning and equipment takedown afterward.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a special event bartender, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Special Event Bartender, you need a solid understanding of drink recipes, excellent customer service skills, and often a bartending certification or relevant experience. Familiarity with POS systems, bar tools, and sometimes knowledge of local alcohol regulations are typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure help bartenders stand out in event settings. These skills ensure smooth, enjoyable guest experiences and efficient service during high-demand occasions.

What are some common challenges faced by special event bartenders, and how can they be managed effectively?

Special Event Bartenders often work in fast-paced, unpredictable environments where they must serve large crowds efficiently while maintaining high-quality customer service. Challenges may include adapting to different event themes, handling last-minute changes, and managing inventory with limited supplies. Effective time management, strong communication with event coordinators, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential for success. Building flexibility and a proactive approach to problem-solving will help bartenders thrive in this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Special Event Bartender vs On-Premise Bartender?

AspectSpecial Event BartenderOn-Premise Bartender
CredentialsFood handler permits, alcohol service certificationFood handler permits, alcohol service certification
Work EnvironmentEvents, weddings, private partiesBars, restaurants, clubs
Employer & IndustryEvent planning companies, catering servicesHospitality industry, bars, restaurants
Search & ComparisonOften compared for event-specific rolesMore permanent, location-based roles

Special Event Bartenders focus on providing beverage services at temporary events like weddings and parties, often requiring event-specific permits. On-Premise Bartenders work in bars or restaurants, serving customers in a fixed location. Both roles require similar certifications but differ mainly in work setting and employment type.

How much money do special event bartenders make?

Special event bartenders typically earn between $15 and $30 per hour, with total earnings depending on the event size, tips, and location. Many also receive tips from guests, which can significantly increase overall income, especially at high-profile events or in busy environments.

How to get into private event bartending?

To become a private event bartender, gain bartending experience and obtain a bartending license or certification if required locally. Build a network of event planners or catering companies, and consider creating a professional profile or portfolio to showcase your skills and reliability for private events.
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Special Event Bartender jobs near you
Infographic showing various Special Event Bartender job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 79% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $33,085 per year, or $15.9 per hour.

Catering & Special Event Bartender

Appalachian State University

Boone, NC • On-site

$20/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 15 days ago

Appalachian State University rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 29 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

545th of 619 rated colleges and universities

Job description

Request to Recruit
Working Title Catering & Special Event Bartender Location Boone, NC Position Number B32305 Department Catering - 170400
Position Summary Information
Minimum Qualifications
Minimum age 21 years old
Experience in bartending or service activities in a restaurant, country club, event venue, commercial kitchen or other hospitality space. Equivalent training will also be considered
License/Certification Required
Alcohol Seller-Server Training Program by eTIPS, ABC, ALE or other approved resource. (May be completed once hired.)
Essential Job Functions
Grandview Catering & Events provides handcrafted fare and unique experiences brought to life by culinary and event professionals. We focus on attention to detail, quality ingredients and sustainable practices with exceptional customer service. We proudly serve Appalachian State University campuses as well as off-site events for university affiliated businesses, community members and alumni with Grandview Ballroom featured as our premiere event space.

What You'll Do:
As a Grandview Bartender, you'll help bring a wide variety of events to life from vibrant student celebrations and campus traditions to high-profile donor galas and local community gatherings. Events may be on weekday afternoons/evenings, or weekends, and scheudling options are flexible.
Your main responsibilities will include:
  • Crafting the Experience: Greet guests with a smile, mix classic cocktails, pour beer and wine confidently, and keep the good vibes flowing throughout the event.
  • Bar Setup & Styling: Help the Hospitality team by setting up bars with linens, glassware, ice, and products.
  • Event Execution: Work events from start to finish alongside a team. This includes arriving on time, providing stellar service, and wrapping up with a smooth event breakdown.
  • Keeping it Sharp: Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient bar area while looking professional. While the majority of our events feature standard beer and wine service, you will also have the opportunity to utilize basic mixology skills and practice safe alcohol service at select premium events.
  • Handling Sales: Use user-friendly, handheld point-of-sale devices to process guest payments accurately.
  • Being a Team Player: Stay in sync with your supervisors and coworkers, build relationships with our diverse team (including awesome student staff), and jump in to help with other team duties as assigned.

This highly flexible role features a varying schedule based on our booked events, making it the perfect opportunity for someone looking to easily pick up just a few shifts a month.
Preferred Qualifications
Full-service bar experience, especially with liquor mixed drinks
Available to work occasional weekends and evenings.
Work Schedule/Hours
Hours, days, and frequency will change depending on business needs.
Catering employees are required to work special events including, but not limited to, home football games, University commencement, other large scale events
Number of Hours Per Week Varies Number of Months Per Year 12 Mandatory Staff No Physical Demands of Position
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.
Hiring Range $20.00
Pay will be commensurate with applicant competencies, budget, equity and market considerations.
Posting Details Information
Posting Date 06/05/2026 Closing Date Open Until Filled Yes Applicant Pool Preference External (Post on the Web) Special Instructions to Applicants
Applications will be reviewed by the Catering department based on employment needs.
Please include the following document(s):
Resume
List of 3 professional references
Cover Letter (optional)
Not Eligible for Visa Sponsorship Quick Link https://appstate.peopleadmin.com/postings/54563 Posting Number 201500854P

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