Bar Back | Part-Time | Portsmouth Pavilion
Company : SPECTRA
Location : Portsmouth, VA, 23704
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 11 January 2026
Oak View Group
Oak View Group is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. Offering an unmatched, 360-degree solution set for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster that includes the most influential, highest attended arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions on the planet.
Position Summary
The Bar Back is responsible for backing up the bartender by restocking products to ensure the bartenders stay fully stocked during events while ensuring all policies and procedures regarding alcohol dispensing are followed. The employee must maintain excellent attendance and be available to work events as scheduled per business need.
This role will pay an hourly rate of $8.00-$10.00 and is tip eligible.
For Part-Time roles: Benefits: 401(k) savings plan and 401(k) matching.
EVERGREEN ROLE: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis; there is no application deadline.About the Venue
Portsmouth Pavilion is a 7000 capacity "boutique style" ampitheater on the Elizabeth River in Historic Old Towne Portsmouth, Virginia.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for stocking products for the bar including N/A beverages, alcoholic beverages, icing wells, sweeping and moping the bar, moving kegs in and out of keg coolers and tapping kegs.
- Drafting beer and pouring wine for guest orders, running supplies for bartenders back up fruit, napkins, cups, utensils and stirrers.
- Assures that the location equipment is operable and clean prior to start of event.
- Maintain cleanliness of bar and surrounding areas utilizing sanitation procedures, this includes mopping floors, cleaning and stacking floor mats, emptying and relining trash cans and keeping closet areas clear of debris and clutter.
- Responsible for recognizing guests that are visibly intoxicated and taking action to make bartenders aware of such individuals.
- Maintains sanitation, health and safety standards in work areas.
- Must show demonstrated ability to meet the company standard for excellent attendance.
Qualifications
- Ability to work in a team-oriented, fast-paced, event-driven environment.
- Ability to communicate with employees, co-workers, management staff and guest in a clear, business-like and respectful manner which focuses on generating a positive enthusiastic and cooperative work environment.
- Possess valid food handling certificate and alcohol service permit if required by state and federal regulations.
- Ability to calculate basic math functions (addition, subtraction, multiplication, division, percentages) as they relate to product inventory.
- Ability to speak, read and write in English.
- Experience working in a fast-paced, high volume bar capacity is preferred.
Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference
At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.
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Frequently asked questions
Portsmouth's nightlife and event venues create a steady demand for part-time bar back roles. With a growing entertainment scene, applicants may face moderate competition, especially for positions at popular spots like Portsmouth Pavilion. Local networking and flexible availability can improve your chances to secure these sought-after jobs.
While a valid food handling certificate and alcohol service permit might be required depending on state and federal laws, many Portsmouth venues also prioritize experience in fast-paced bar environments. Obtaining these permits locally can enhance employability for bar back roles in the Virginia area.
Emphasize your ability to manage inventory efficiently, maintain cleanliness, and support bartenders under pressure. Communication skills and teamwork are critical, especially in busy venues like Portsmouth Pavilion. Experience handling beverages and familiarity with sanitation standards will also make your application stand out.
Absolutely, starting as a bar back offers valuable industry exposure and hands-on experience in live event hospitality. This role can be a stepping stone toward bartender, bar manager, or other venue operations positions within companies like SPECTRA and Oak View Group, renowned for career development.
SPECTRA values punctuality, teamwork, and adherence to safety policies. Candidates who demonstrate reliability, effective communication, and the capacity to maintain a clean, well-stocked bar environment align well with their standards at Portsmouth Pavilion’s boutique amphitheater.
At Portsmouth Pavilion, the bar back supports high-volume, event-driven service with a focus on maintaining equipment and compliance with alcohol policies. This contrasts with typical bar work by emphasizing event readiness and collaboration within a premium hospitality setting managed by Oak View Group.
For part-time bar back positions in Portsmouth, including those at Portsmouth Pavilion, hourly wages typically range from $8.00 to $10.00. Additionally, these roles are usually tip-eligible, which can significantly boost overall earnings during busy event nights.
Yes, the dynamic nature of large-scale events demands quick restocking, vigilance for over-intoxicated guests, and maintaining cleanliness amidst high traffic. Bar backs must efficiently support bartenders while ensuring compliance with health and safety standards in a fast-paced environment.
Portsmouth’s historic charm and vibrant community foster a friendly yet fast-moving work atmosphere. Bar backs here often engage with diverse crowds at events, requiring adaptability and strong communication skills to deliver excellent guest service in a culturally rich setting.
Situated in historic Old Towne Portsmouth, the Pavilion is accessible via main roads and public transit options. Commuters benefit from proximity to residential areas, but parking during large events might require planning to ensure timely arrival for scheduled shifts.