StartenderStartender

How to Become a Bartender in Washington, D.C.

No experience needed to start. Here’s the real path to your first shift in DC — and how to get discovered once you’re ready.

Build your free profile →

The fast path

  1. Learn the basics. Take a short bartending course or start as a barback in a busy DC bar — both teach you the craft fast.
  2. Get certified. Grab your alcohol-service certification (TIPS or your local equivalent). Quick, cheap, and venues expect it.
  3. Get real reps. Work the volume — speed and consistency behind a real bar are what get you hired and tipped.
  4. Get discovered. Build a profile that shows your work and personality so DC venues find and book you directly.

Where to start in DC

These are the busiest nightlife pockets — where the shifts (and the tips) are:

● LIVE ON STARTENDER

49 bartender gigs open right now in DC

Real openings at real venues, newest first. Applying takes one tap in the app — your STARCARD goes straight to the venue.

RRasika - West End
Bartender NEW
Rasika - West End
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

Rasika West End, a Modern Indian cuisine restaurant, seeks a skilled bartender with 3 years of experience in high-volume, fine dining settings. The ideal candidate has a passion for craft cocktails and food. Experience in cocktail creation is preferred.

Apply now → 18 hrs ago
OOne Washington Circle, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Bartender
One Washington Circle, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion
Apply now → 3 days ago
CCapital Yacht Club
Bartender
Capital Yacht Club
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Upscale club seeking a skilled bartender with a passion for hospitality and mixology expertise. Excellent communication skills are a must. Competitive opportunity for a charismatic and organized individual.

Apply now → 4 days ago
OOne Washington Circle, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Bartender - Ten Ten
One Washington Circle, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion
Apply now → 4 days ago
FFISH SHOP
Bartender
FISH SHOP
Bartender📍 Washington DC$12/hr

Upscale restaurant seeking an experienced bartender with extensive drink knowledge and a passion for hospitality. At least 2 years of high-volume experience required. Excellent communication skills are a must.

Apply now → 4 days ago
OOne Washington Circle, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Bartender *Must Work Weekends* | Ten Ten at Once Washington Circle, Tapestry by Hilton
One Washington Circle, Tapestry Collection by Hilton
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion
Apply now → 4 days ago
MMGM National Harbor
Bartender Lobby Bar - MGM National Harbor
MGM National Harbor
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion
Apply now → 1 wk ago
B
Bartender
Bowl America
Bartender📍 AlexandriaOpen to discussion
Apply now → 1 wk ago
BBowl America
Bartender
Bowl America
Bartender📍 FairfaxOpen to discussion
Apply now → 1 wk ago
LLucky Strike
Bartender
Lucky Strike
Bartender📍 BethesdaOpen to discussion
Apply now → 1 wk ago
TThe Palm
Bartender (Upscale / Fine Dining)
The Palm
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion
Apply now → 1 wk ago
H
Bartender
Hilton Fairfax
Bartender📍 FairfaxOpen to discussion
Apply now → 1 wk ago
ZZeppelin DC
Bartender
Zeppelin DC
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

Zeppelin DC, an elevated neighborhood restaurant, seeks a skilled bartender to act as an ambassador. This role requires precision, knowledge, and a warm welcoming demeanor. The ideal candidate is a hospitality-driven professional.

Apply now → 1 wk ago
P
Bartender (Experienced)
Presidential Restaurant Group
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Teddy, a 12-year downtown dining staple, seeks an experienced bartender to enhance its renowned cocktail program. The ideal candidate is skilled in craft cocktails and cost management. A positive and skilled professional is desired to maintain high standards and excellent customer service.

Apply now → 1 wk ago
TThe Saga
Bartender
The Saga
Bartender📍 Washington DC$12/hr

Seven Restaurant Group seeks a humble and high-energy bartender for theSaga/Quadrant. This role is ideal for enthusiastic individuals who thrive in fast-paced environments. The group is behind award-winning restaurants including Seven Reasons and Imperfecto.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
AAstoria, Washington DC
Bartender
Astoria, Washington DC
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

ASTORIA in DuPont Circle seeks a professional bartender to join their team. This role offers health benefits, PTO, and annual raises in a hospitality-driven environment. Career-minded individuals are preferred for this full-time position.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
DDel Frisco's
Bartender (Upscale / Fine Dining)
Del Frisco's
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion
Apply now → 2 wks ago
JJackie Restaurant
Bartender
Jackie Restaurant
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

Upscale venue seeks charismatic bartenders with extensive product knowledge and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences. Must thrive in fast-paced environments and maintain high standards of hospitality. Offers a professional and team-oriented work setting.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
DDacha Navy Yard
Bartender
Dacha Navy Yard
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

Upscale waterfront venue seeks charismatic bartenders with strong beverage knowledge and a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences. Polished and attentive service is a must in this fast-paced environment. Professionalism and teamwork are highly valued.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
TThe Oak Room
Bartender
The Oak Room
Bartender📍 Washington DC$18/hr

Ten Five Hospitality's new Georgetown lounge seeks experienced professionals with fine dining backgrounds. Dynamic individuals with a strong service record are ideal for this role. The Oak Room offers an elevated dining experience.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
MMasseria
Bartender Wanted
Masseria
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Masseria is hiring a bartender to join their team. They're looking for a skilled and hard-working individual. Competitive hourly position available.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
FFat Daddy's Bar & Grill
Bartender Wanted
Fat Daddy's Bar & Grill
Bartender📍 AlexandriaOpen to discussion

Fat Daddy's Bar & Grill seeks a skilled bartender. The ideal candidate is a team player with excellent communication skills. Apply in person or by email with a resume.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
OOld Hat Bar
Bartender Wanted
Old Hat Bar
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Old Hat Bar seeks a skilled bartender to join their team. They want a fun and energetic individual who can provide top-notch service. Apply in person or send a resume to their staffing email.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
RRosebar
Bartender Wanted
Rosebar
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Rosebar is seeking a skilled bartender to join their team. The ideal candidate is a charismatic and experienced professional. Apply online for a chance to work at this premium venue.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
DDudley's Sport & Ale
Bartender Wanted
Dudley's Sport & Ale
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Dudley's Sport & Ale seeks a skilled bartender. This sports-focused venue needs a charismatic team player. Competitive candidates should have relevant experience.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
RRocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company
Bartender Wanted
Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Rocklands Barbeque and Grilling Company seeks a skilled bartender for their team. They want a charismatic and experienced professional to join their Arlington, VA location. Competitive opportunity for a hospitality expert.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
MMeze
Bartender Wanted
Meze
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Meze is hiring a bartender to bring energy to their team. They'll provide the training for the right person. Apply to join their crew.

Apply now → 2 wks ago
RRiver Club DC
Bartender
River Club DC
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

River Club, a Mediterranean-focused restaurant, seeks a skilled bartender to craft expertly made cocktails. The ideal candidate is knowledgeable and passionate about mixology. Excellence in hospitality and beverage service is expected.

Apply now → 3 wks ago
FFiola Mare
Bartender
Fiola Mare
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Fiola Mare, a luxury coastal Italian seafood restaurant, seeks experienced bartenders with a hospitality focus. The ideal candidate is refined and driven, with a passion for world-class service. Fiola Mare offers a sophisticated waterfront dining experience with global seafood and elegant crudo.

Apply now → 5 wks ago
WWashington Marriott Capitol Hill
Bartender
Washington Marriott Capitol Hill
Bartender📍 Washington DC$12.00 per hour
Apply now → 5 wks ago
EEl Presidente
Bartender
El Presidente
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

Bartender job at El Presidente in Washington DC.

Apply now → 6 wks ago
PPappe
Bartender
Pappe
Bartender📍 Washington DC$15/hr

PAPPE Indian Restaurant in Washington, D.C. seeks a dedicated bartender to deliver exceptional service. The ideal candidate has a passion for excellent hospitality and a love for Indian cuisine. Authentic Indian restaurant with warm hospitality.

Apply now → 6 wks ago
TThe Graham Georgetown
Bartender
The Graham Georgetown
Bartender📍 Washington DC$12.50 to $18.40 per hour

Bartender job at The Graham Georgetown in Washington DC.

Apply now → 7 wks ago
DDeath & Co
Bartender
Death & Co
Bartender📍 Washington DC$17.95/hr

High-volume bar looking for someone who genuinely connects with guests while crafting drinks with precision. You'll own the whole front-of-house experience—drinks, food runs, tables, greeting—bringing energy and professionalism every shift. Must show up ready to learn and deliver.

Apply now → 9 wks ago
NNed's Club
Bartender
Ned's Club
Bartender📍 Washington DC$14/hr

Ned's Club in Washington DC seeks a charismatic bartender to serve drinks in their upscale restaurants and bars. The ideal candidate is a skilled mixologist with a passion for hospitality. A unique and luxurious work environment awaits.

Apply now → 9 wks ago
CChart House
Bartender (Upscale / Fine Dining)
Chart House
Bartender📍 AlexandriaInquire for pay

Bartender job at Chart House in Alexandria.

Apply now → 9 wks ago
MMastro's Steakhouse
Bartender (Upscale / Fine Dining)
Mastro's Steakhouse
Bartender📍 Washington DCInquire for pay

Bartender job at Mastro's Steakhouse in Washington DC.

Apply now → 9 wks ago
VVera Cocina & بار
Bartender
Vera Cocina & بار
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

Vera Cocina, a Lebanese-Mexican restaurant and nightlife spot, seeks a skilled Bartender to craft creative cocktails. The ideal candidate is professional, polished, and thrives in high-energy environments. Outstanding guest experience skills are a must.

Apply now → 9 wks ago
AAltair DC
Bartender
Altair DC
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

Bartender job at Altair DC in Washington DC.

Apply now → 11 wks ago
BBarcelona Wine Bar-Cathedral
Bartender-Cathedral
Barcelona Wine Bar-Cathedral
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Friendly and outgoing professionals with excellent communication skills are needed to provide top-notch service at Cathedral. This role requires a people person who can deliver exceptional experiences. Outstanding communication skills are a must.

Apply now → 11 wks ago
BBarcelona Wine Bar-14th Street
Bartender-14th Street
Barcelona Wine Bar-14th Street
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Upscale venue on 14th Street seeks a skilled bartender. Open interviews are being held this week, no appointment necessary. Walk in to meet the team.

Apply now → 11 wks ago
SSwingers Dupont Circle
Bartender
Swingers Dupont Circle
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Bartender job at Swingers Dupont Circle in Washington DC.

Apply now → 12 wks ago
OOyamel DC
Bartender
Oyamel DC
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Upscale restaurant group José Andrés seeks a skilled and charismatic bartender to join their team. The ideal candidate is passionate and knowledgeable about craft cocktails. Competitive pay and opportunities for growth are offered.

Apply now → 13 wks ago
SSt Anselm
Bartender
St Anselm
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

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Apply now → 13 wks ago
OOsteria Mozza DC
Bartender
Osteria Mozza DC
Bartender📍 Washington DC$10/hr

Mozza, a James Beard Award-winning Italian restaurant, seeks a skilled bartender to join its team. The ideal candidate is passionate about hospitality and thrives in a vibrant atmosphere. Outstanding culinary experience and perks await.

Apply now → 13 wks ago
Bbartaco Wharf
Bartender
bartaco Wharf
Bartender📍 Washington DCOpen to discussion

Join a vibrant restaurant serving creative food from scratch, seeking a charismatic bartender to drive great vibes. A passion for people and exceptional service skills are a must. Scratch-made food and lively atmosphere set the tone.

Apply now → 13 wks ago
Bbartaco Pike & Rose
Bartender
bartaco Pike & Rose
Bartender📍 North BethesdaOpen to discussion

Join a vibrant restaurant serving creative food from scratch. They're looking for a charismatic bartender to bring great vibes to the table. Excellent service skills are a must.

Apply now → 14 wks ago
Bbartaco Mosaic
Bartender
bartaco Mosaic
Bartender📍 FairfaxOpen to discussion

Upscale casual restaurant seeking a charismatic bartender to deliver great vibes. Scratch-made food and high-energy atmosphere. Passionate team players wanted.

Apply now → 14 wks ago
EExtra Fancy
Bartender
Extra Fancy
Bartender📍 Washington DCInquire for pay

Bartender job at Extra Fancy in Washington DC.

Apply now → 14 wks ago

What you’ll make

DC nightlife concentrates on U Street and 14th Street — busy lounges and clubs plus steady event and rooftop work. Plan around roughly $170–$370 on a strong night with tips.

Get discovered

Once you’re ready, Startender gets you in front of the venues actually hiring. It’s a private, invite-only network where Washington, D.C. bars and clubs find and book bartenders directly — free for talent. Build a profile that works like a portfolio and get found.

There are 49 bartender gigs open in DC right now — get discovered for them.

Build your free profile →

FAQ

How long does it take to become a bartender in Washington, D.C.?
Most people can start in a few weeks. A bartending course runs 1–2 weeks; many Washington, D.C. bars also train barbacks on the job and promote them. The real timeline depends on how fast you get reps behind a busy bar.
Do you need a license or certification to bartend in Washington, D.C.?
You typically need an alcohol-service certification (like TIPS or your state/local equivalent) — it’s quick and inexpensive. Beyond that, Washington, D.C. venues care most about speed, reliability and real experience.
Can you bartend in Washington, D.C. with no experience?
Yes — most pros start as a barback, learn the bar, and move up. Pair that with a course or certification and a profile that shows you’re ready, and you can land your first shift fast.
How much do bartenders make in Washington, D.C.?
DC nightlife concentrates on U Street and 14th Street — busy lounges and clubs plus steady event and rooftop work. Plan around roughly $170–$370 on a strong night with tips.

Startender — the private network for nightlife pros. Bartender jobs in DC →