Are you ready to shake (or stir) things up in your career and become a bartender in Houston? With its vibrant nightlife, diverse culinary scene, and thriving bar culture, Houston is an ideal city to pursue a career in bartending. In this article, we’ll take you through the steps to become a bartender in Houston, from meeting the basic requirements to advancing your skills and finding job opportunities.
Meet the Basic Requirements
Before you start mixing drinks and charming customers, you need to meet the basic requirements to become a bartender in Houston. These requirements include:
Age and Education
- You must be at least 18 years old to apply for a bartender position in Houston.
- While a high school diploma or equivalent is not always required, having one can be beneficial in securing a job.
- Some bars and restaurants may prefer or require a degree in hospitality, culinary arts, or a related field.
Licenses and Certifications
- In Texas, bartenders are required to obtain a Food Handler’s Certification within 60 days of employment. This certification ensures that you have the knowledge and skills to handle food safely and prevent foodborne illnesses.
- While not mandatory, obtaining a TABC (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission) Certification can be beneficial in securing a job and advancing your career. This certification demonstrates your knowledge of Texas liquor laws, responsible serving practices, and alcohol safety.
Gain Bartending Skills and Knowledge
To become a successful bartender in Houston, you need to acquire the necessary skills and knowledge. Here are some ways to do so:
Bartending Schools and Courses
- Enroll in a bartending school or course that teaches you the fundamentals of bartending, such as mixing drinks, handling cash and credit transactions, and providing excellent customer service.
- Some popular bartending schools in Houston include the Houston Bartending School, The Bartending Academy, and The Mixology School.
Online Training and Resources
- Utilize online resources, such as BarSmarts, The Bartender’s Guild, and Cocktail Kingdom, to learn about mixology, cocktail recipes, and bartending techniques.
- Watch YouTube tutorials, online courses, and webinars to improve your skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
Practice and Experience
- Practice your bartending skills by experimenting with different recipes, techniques, and ingredients.
- Gain experience by working as a server, host/hostess, or barback in a bar or restaurant.
- Volunteer to bartend at events, parties, or charity functions to gain hands-on experience and build your network.
Build Your Professional Network
Building a professional network is crucial in the bartending industry. Here are some ways to connect with other bartenders, bar owners, and industry professionals:
Attend Industry Events
- Attend cocktail competitions, bar conferences, and industry events to meet other bartenders, learn about new trends and techniques, and stay updated on industry news.
- Join Facebook groups, online forums, and social media groups dedicated to bartending and the hospitality industry.
Join Professional Associations
- Join the United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG), The Bartender’s Guild, or other professional associations to connect with other bartenders, access educational resources, and stay updated on industry news.
Find Job Opportunities
Now that you have the skills, knowledge, and network, it’s time to find job opportunities in Houston. Here are some ways to do so:
Job Boards and Websites
- Search for bartending jobs on Indeed, LinkedIn, Craigslist, and other job boards.
- Utilize industry-specific job boards, such as BarZone and Hospitality Jobs.
Networking and Referrals
- Leverage your professional network to find job opportunities. Ask your friends, colleagues, and mentors about job openings or referrals.
- Attend job fairs and industry events to meet bar owners, managers, and other industry professionals.
Bar and Restaurant Websites
- Check the websites of popular bars and restaurants in Houston for job openings.
- Look for “Help Wanted” signs or “Now Hiring” posts on social media.
Advance Your Career
Once you’ve secured a bartending job, it’s time to advance your career. Here are some ways to do so:
Continuing Education
- Attend workshops, seminars, and conferences to improve your skills and knowledge.
- Take online courses or certification programs to advance your career.
Leadership Roles
- Look for opportunities to take on leadership roles, such as shift leader, assistant manager, or bar manager.
- Develop your management skills by taking courses or attending workshops on leadership, management, and hospitality.
Competitions and Awards
- Participate in cocktail competitions to showcase your skills and creativity.
- Enter awards programs, such as the USBG’s Most Imaginative Bartender Competition, to recognize your achievements and advance your career.
In conclusion, becoming a bartender in Houston requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and networking. By meeting the basic requirements, gaining bartending skills and knowledge, building your professional network, finding job opportunities, and advancing your career, you can succeed in the competitive world of bartending. So, shake, stir, and succeed – your bartending career in Houston awaits!
What skills do I need to become a bartender in Houston?
To become a bartender in Houston, you’ll need a combination of technical, business, and interpersonal skills. On the technical side, you should have knowledge of various cocktails, beers, and wines, as well as the ability to operate a point-of-sale system and handle cash transactions. You should also be able to multitask, work well under pressure, and maintain a clean and organized workspace.
In addition to technical skills, you’ll also need strong interpersonal skills to interact with customers, colleagues, and management. This includes being able to communicate effectively, handle conflicts, and provide excellent customer service. You should also be able to work well in a team environment and be willing to take direction and feedback from others.
Do I need a license to bartend in Houston?
In Texas, bartenders are required to obtain a Food Handler’s Certification and a TABC (Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission) Certification. The Food Handler’s Certification is required by the Texas Department of State Health Services and can be obtained by completing a food safety training program. The TABC Certification is required by the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission and can be obtained by completing a training program that covers topics such as responsible serving practices and Texas liquor laws.
Both certifications are typically valid for two years and can be obtained online or in-person. It’s also a good idea to check with your employer or the City of Houston to see if there are any additional requirements or certifications needed to bartend in the city.
How do I get hired as a bartender in Houston?
To get hired as a bartender in Houston, you’ll typically need to have some experience in the industry, either as a bartender or in a related role such as a server or host. You can also consider taking a bartending course or getting certified as a bartender to increase your chances of getting hired. Many bars and restaurants in Houston also require applicants to have a strong knowledge of cocktails, beers, and wines, as well as excellent customer service skills.
When applying for a bartending job, be sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills, and be prepared to provide references. You should also be prepared to audition or interview with the bar or restaurant, where you may be asked to demonstrate your bartending skills or answer questions about your experience and qualifications.
What are the best bartending schools in Houston?
There are several bartending schools in Houston that offer training programs for aspiring bartenders. Some of the most well-known schools include the Houston Bartending School, the Texas Bartending School, and the Mixology Wine Institute. These schools offer a range of programs, from basic bartending courses to more advanced programs that cover topics such as mixology and wine service.
When choosing a bartending school, consider factors such as the school’s reputation, the qualifications of the instructors, and the curriculum. You should also look for schools that offer hands-on training and job placement assistance to help you get started in your bartending career.
How much money can I make as a bartender in Houston?
The amount of money you can make as a bartender in Houston will depend on a variety of factors, including the type of establishment you work in, your level of experience, and the number of hours you work. On average, bartenders in Houston can earn around $25,000 to $40,000 per year, although experienced bartenders can earn significantly more.
In addition to your base salary, you can also earn tips, which can significantly increase your earnings. In fact, many bartenders in Houston earn more in tips than they do in base salary. To maximize your earnings, focus on providing excellent customer service, developing a strong knowledge of cocktails and drinks, and building a loyal customer base.
What are the best bars to work at in Houston?
Houston has a thriving bar scene, with a wide range of establishments to choose from. Some of the best bars to work at in Houston include the Anvil Bar & Refuge, the West Alabama Ice House, and the Pastry War. These bars are known for their creative cocktails, lively atmosphere, and excellent customer service.
When choosing a bar to work at, consider factors such as the bar’s reputation, the quality of the drinks, and the atmosphere. You should also look for bars that offer opportunities for advancement and professional development, as well as a positive and supportive work environment.
How do I advance my career as a bartender in Houston?
To advance your career as a bartender in Houston, focus on developing your skills and knowledge, and building a strong network of contacts in the industry. Consider taking advanced courses or certifications, such as a mixology certification or a wine certification, to increase your knowledge and skills. You should also look for opportunities to work with experienced bartenders and learn from them.
In addition to developing your skills and knowledge, you should also focus on building a strong reputation in the industry. This can be done by providing excellent customer service, creating innovative cocktails, and participating in industry events and competitions. With hard work and dedication, you can advance your career as a bartender in Houston and achieve your goals.