Similar careers
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
Bartenders mix and serve alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to customers. They are skilled in the art of drink-making and provide excellent customer service in various social settings.
Education: No formal educational credential
Years in related career: None
On-the-job training: Short-term
Projected Growth: 3.3% (average)
Annual job openings: 129 600
Direct AI exposure: 8% of tasks
Potential AI exposure: 19% of tasks
| Income data is from Employment and Social Development Canada's 2025 wage tables. The closest match for this career in Canada’s occupational classification system is Bartenders. According to the wage tables, average income is $42K per year. | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bottom 10% | Bottom 25% | Median (average) | Top 25% | Top 10% |
| $31K per year | $35K per year | $42K per year | $52K per year | $62K per year |
| Compared to other careers: Median is $23K below the national average. | ||||
Bartenders typically work in bars, restaurants, clubs, hotels, and other hospitality venues. The environment is fast-paced and social, often requiring work during evenings, weekends, and holidays. Bartenders must be adept at handling busy periods and interacting positively with a diverse range of customers.
Bartending is a dynamic and interactive occupation that combines skill, personality, and customer service. Bartenders must have a thorough knowledge of drink recipes, the ability to multitask, and the dexterity to make drinks quickly and accurately. They are responsible for ensuring that customers have a pleasant drinking experience, which requires good communication skills and the ability to manage different customer personalities.
The role demands a high level of energy and the ability to work in a potentially loud and crowded environment. Bartenders also need to be mindful of responsible service of alcohol and be able to handle challenging situations, including the refusal of service when necessary.
A career in bartending can be highly rewarding for those who enjoy social interaction and the fast pace of the hospitality industry. It offers opportunities for creativity, especially for those who delve into mixology or specialty areas of drink service.
Formal education beyond high school is not typically required, but bartenders often go through on-the-job training. Many have completed bartending courses or vocational training programs. Some jurisdictions require bartenders to complete an approved alcohol awareness training program.
Similarity is based on what people in the careers do, what they know, and what they are called. The process of establishing similarity lists is described in this white paper.
