How to Be Bartending Instructor - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jul 4, 2022 / 5 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The rise of craft cocktails has caused an increase in the demand for bartending instructors. This has led to a growth in educational programs, online resources and hands-on classes that teach the nuances of cocktail preparation and service. With the increased knowledge and skills bartenders gain, they are able to create unique and complex drinks, as well as provide a higher level of customer service.

In addition to the direct benefits of these courses, bartenders are better equipped to handle the busy bar atmosphere and higher customer expectations. As a result, bartenders are becoming more confident in their craft, leading to increased job opportunities and overall career satisfaction.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a degree in hospitality or restaurant management. A degree in a related field such as business, communication, or education may also be beneficial.
Take the required courses for a bartending instructor. Depending on your state, these courses may include basic mixology and bartending, food service safety and sanitation, and customer service.
Get certified as a Bartending Instructor. This certification is available through the National Bartenders Association (NBA). You will need to submit proof of completion of the required courses and pass an examination in order to receive your certification.
Gain experience working in a bar or restaurant. You must have at least three years of experience working as a bartender in order to qualify for the NBAs Bartending Instructor certification.
Develop a teaching portfolio detailing your experience, education, certifications, and other relevant qualifications. This portfolio will be used when applying for positions as a bartending instructor.
Look for positions at universities, culinary schools, and other educational institutions that offer bartending courses. You can also look for positions at bars and restaurants that offer bartending classes.
Apply for positions as a bartending instructor and include your teaching portfolio with your application. Be prepared to demonstrate your teaching ability and knowledge of bartending during interviews.
Once you have been hired, create lesson plans and curriculums for your classes. Ensure that you are up to date on the latest trends and techniques, and stay informed about any new regulations or laws related to bartending.
Maintain your certification with the NBA by completing the required continuing education hours each year. This will help you stay current and up to date on the latest developments in the field of bartending.

When it comes to becoming a skilled and competent bartender, there are several key elements that must be mastered. First, one must have a thorough knowledge of the different types of alcoholic beverages, their ingredients, and how to mix them in various cocktails. a bartender must be well-versed in the laws and regulations governing alcohol service, and be able to serve responsibly.

Finally, one must also possess excellent customer service skills in order to properly interact with patrons and create an enjoyable experience. With the proper instruction from a qualified bartender instructor, these skills can be quickly acquired and can lead to a successful career in bartending.

You may want to check Beer Pourer, Bartending Assistant, and Draft Beer Technician for alternative.

Job Description

Prepare lesson plans and teaching materials for bar and beverage classes.
Guide students in developing their bartending skills and knowledge.
Provide instruction on proper bar and beverage preparation techniques, including stirring, pouring, measuring, and garnishing drinks.
Develop and maintain knowledge of all current and popular drink recipes.
Create and teach classes on basic and advanced bartending techniques.
Ensure that all students adhere to safety guidelines for handling equipment and alcohol.
Evaluate students performance and provide feedback to improve skills.
Monitor student progress to ensure mastery of course material.
Keep accurate records of student attendance, test scores, and grades.
Maintain cleanliness of bar area and equipment during classes.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of liquor varieties and recipes
Ability to mix drinks quickly and accurately
Knowledge of common garnishes and drink presentation
Ability to assess customer preferences regarding taste and alcoholic content
Knowledge of state and local alcohol laws
Knowledge of bar equipment and tools
Ability to maintain a clean and organized work area
Ability to troubleshoot equipment malfunctions
Knowledge of responsible alcohol service practices
Ability to provide excellent customer service

Having the ability to effectively communicate is an essential skill for a successful bartending instructor. Communication allows the instructor to create a productive and enjoyable learning environment, while also being able to effectively demonstrate techniques, answer questions, and provide feedback. it is equally important to have good organizational skills.

Being organized allows the instructor to plan and prepare lessons in advance, ensuring that all of the necessary materials are available and that the class runs smoothly. Finally, it is essential for a bartending instructor to have knowledge of the beverage industry, including understanding the different types of drinks, their ingredients, and the methods of preparation. With this knowledge, they can provide students with the necessary information to become professional bartenders.

Having these skills will enable an instructor to provide an effective learning experience for their students and ensure that they learn the necessary knowledge and skills to become a successful bartender.

Bar Chef, Craft Cocktail Maker, and Cocktail Server are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have as a bartending instructor?
What approaches do you take when teaching students to become bartenders?
Describe a lesson plan you have created for a bartending instruction class.
How do you help students develop their skills and knowledge?
Describe an experience teaching a difficult student to become a great bartender.
How do you keep students engaged and motivated during class?
How do you stay current with the latest trends in bartending?
What strategies do you use to ensure compliance with local laws and regulations?
Describe your experience working in a bar or restaurant setting.
What methods do you use to assess student learning and progress?

Common Tools in Industry

Blender. Used to mix and blend cocktails. (eg: Margarita)
Bottle Opener. Used to open beer, soda and other bottled drinks. (eg: Corona)
Bar Spoon. Used to stir and measure drinks. (eg: Martini)
Jigger. Used to measure precise amounts of liquor. (eg: Daiquiri)
Muddler. Used to muddle fruits and herbs. (eg: Mojito)
Ice Scoop. Used to scoop and transfer ice from one container to another. (eg: Highball)
Juicer. Used to extract juice from fruits. (eg: Mimosa)
Strainer. Used to strain out ice cubes, fruits and herbs from a drink. (eg: Cosmopolitan)
Shaker. Used to combine ingredients and chill them quickly. (eg: Manhattan)
Cocktail Picks. Used to skewer fruits and other garnishes. (eg: Old Fashioned)

Professional Organizations to Know

United States Bartenders' Guild (USBG)
International Bartenders Association (IBA)
The Bartenders' Association of Canada (BAC)
American Bartenders School
National Restaurant Association (NRA)
Professional Bartending Schools of America (PBSA)
Nightclub & Bar Media Group
Society of Professional Bartenders (SPB)
International Sommelier Guild (ISG)
American Beverage Licensees (ABL)

We also have Head Bartender, Pub Bartender, and Beverage Director jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Alcohol. A type of beverage, usually containing ethyl alcohol, that is used as an intoxicant.
Bartending. The practice of mixing drinks and serving them to customers in a bar or other establishment.
Mixology. The art and practice of creating mixed drinks and cocktails.
Muddling. The act of crushing ingredients in a glass or shaker with a muddler (a tool used for crushing).
Garnish. An edible decoration placed on the top or side of a drink for presentation.
Free Pour. The act of pouring liquor from a bottle to a glass without measuring the amount.
Blending. Mixing together two or more ingredients to produce a desired taste or texture.
Shaking. Agitating a mixture of ingredients in a shaker to produce an even consistency.
Stirring. Mixing ingredients together in a glass using a stirring rod.
Float. Adding one ingredient on top of another in a glass to create a layered effect.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do you need to become a Bartending Instructor?

To become a Bartending Instructor, individuals typically need to have extensive experience in the bartending field and must hold a valid food and beverage certification from an accredited institution.

How many hours of training does a Bartending Instructor usually provide?

Bartending Instructors typically provide between 10-20 hours of training, depending on the individual's learning style and the complexity of the course material.

What topics do Bartending Instructors cover in their courses?

Bartending Instructors typically cover topics such as alcohol laws and regulations, drink recipes, proper pouring techniques, customer service, and responsible alcohol sales and service.

What type of certification do Bartending Instructors typically hold?

Bartending Instructors typically hold a valid food and beverage certification from an accredited institution, such as the ServSafe Alcohol program.

What skills are important for a successful Bartending Instructor to possess?

Successful Bartending Instructors must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, as well as the ability to teach complex concepts in a clear and concise manner. They should also be knowledgeable about all aspects of bartending, including alcohol laws and regulations, drink recipes, proper pouring techniques, customer service, and responsible alcohol sales and service.