Barback

Position Summary

As barback at Keeneland Hospitality, you play a vital support role in Keeneland’s beverage operations, ensuring bartenders and service staff are fully stocked, organized, and able to provide an exceptional guest experience. This position involves managing inventory, transporting products, and maintaining a clean and efficient workspace, all while keeping up with the fast pace of race meets and events.

The ideal candidate demonstrates a positive, team-focused attitude and thrives in both high-energy and premium service environments.

Key Responsibilities

Assist with opening and closing duties, including stocking garnishes, napkins, straws, and bar tools to ensure readiness for service. Maintain inventory by transporting and organizing beer, wine, spirits, ice, and other bar supplies using proper transfer documentation. Ensure all taps, draft systems, and appliances are working properly; change kegs as needed.

Keep bar and prep areas clean and organized by wiping down surfaces, removing soiled glassware, emptying trash, sweeping/mopping floors, and sanitizing equipment. Support batching of cocktails, juice preparation, and mise en place as directed by beverage leads. Maintain excellent guest service and a positive demeanor when interacting with guests, co-workers, or managers.

Monitor product levels and communicate reorder needs to the bartender or manager to avoid shortages during service. Adhere to all Keeneland safety, food safety, and sanitation policies.

Qualifications

Previous experience as a Beertender, Bartender, or Barback in a fast-paced or high-volume setting. Working knowledge of domestic and craft beer styles, ABV, glassware, proper pour techniques, and keg cocktail preparation. Ability to serve basic food items with speed and attention to detail. Excellent communication skills with a warm, guest-first mindset.

Ability to lift kegs, cases, and stand for extended periods in varying weather conditions. Must be 20 years or older and possess or obtain a valid Kentucky Alcohol Server Permit. Flexible availability, including weekends, evenings, holidays, and Keeneland Race Meets. Licensing Requirements: A valid Fayette County Food Handler’s License is required for all food and beverage staff.

Must be obtained prior to the first scheduled shift. A Kentucky Horse Racing Commission license is required for all track workers. This license will be provided to you on behalf of Keeneland upon hire.