Hospitality & Food

How to become a Bar Manager

From bartender: every step, how long it takes, and the credential it earns.

Time to get there

1–3 years

Typical pay

$48k–$68k

Starting from

Bartender

Pay is an estimate of typical US entry-level pay for this role and varies by state, employer and shift. The timeline assumes you are starting from bartender and includes any licence or programme legally required — not just course length.

The route

1. 1

   2–3 years

   Bartend for a couple of years

   Managing a bar you have never worked does not go well.

   Course that covers thisBartending Mastery - Cocktail & Bartending MasterclassUdemy · around $24.99 →
2. 2

   6–12 months

   Learn inventory and pour cost

   Shrinkage, par levels and margin. The reason the job exists.

   Course that covers thisHotel Management - Foundation Course for Hotel ManagersUdemy · around $19.99 →
3. 3

   1–2 months

   Learn your liquor liability

   Over-service is a legal exposure for the venue and sometimes for you personally.

   ◆ State responsible alcohol service certification

4. 4

   1–2 years

   Take the management role

   Scheduling, ordering, and closing the building. Salaried, so the late nights stop paying overtime.

5. ✓

   Destination

   Bar Manager

   Browse jobs now →

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