Bar attendants generally work in licensed dining or drinking establishments, but may be required to work at special events like festivals, parties or weddings. They are generally on their feet for long periods and may be required to lift or stack heavy stock. They may have to check patrons’ identification and deal with difficult or intoxicated customers. Their work environment can be cramped, noisy, humid, slippery and incredibly busy. Bar attendants are often required to work on weekends and in the evening.

Bar attendants use beer taps, spirit measures, glasses of varying size and shape, drink mixers and shakers, blenders and dishwashing equipment. They also use a wide range of alcohol, non-alcohol mixers, soft drinks, fruit, vegetables and dairy products to create and garnish drinks. Their public presentation and hygiene is very important, so they may be required to wear uniforms and closed shoes. There is also a great deal of cash-handling in their job, and they frequently use cash registers, EFTPOS machines and electronic-ordering devices.