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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