The Ultimate Guide to Back of House Careers

Updated On: February 01, 2024 by   Ciaran Connolly

Across the Irish Tourism & Hospitality Sector, several opportunities are available for ambitious and hardworking Back of House professionals. These roles are incredibly diverse, meaning that duties can be broad and varied in nature. From Kitchen Managers and Porters to Chefs and Cleaners, staff in these roles play a crucial role behind the scenes, often working as part of a wider operations team.

Skills and Experience

• Willingness to work Front of House when required
• Previous experience working in a Back of House environment
• Third-level qualifications when relevant
• Strong levels of numeracy and literacy
• Good communication skills
• Impeccable customer service skills
• Experience in cash handling and till operation
• Willingness to work overtime shifts as and when required
• Ability to work as part of a busy Back of House team
• Can-do, problem-solving approach to work

What does it take to become part of a Back of House Team?

A willingness to work unsociable and overtime hours is essential, as is the ability to work as part of a busy Back of House Team. Whilst many roles are available at entry level, some senior positions require extensive previous experience and related third level qualifications. Many jobs will require you to work Front of House if and when required.

Whilst Back of House Roles can be demanding, many excel thanks to the diverse nature of the sector and the opportunities it can offer. An ability to work as part of a busy team is highly desirable, as is the ability to work in what are often pressurised situations. Many jobs offer full training to successful candidates, but in some cases extensive experience and related qualifications are essential. Put simply, you will work in a behind-the-scenes role to ensure that the experience of visitors is enjoyable, memorable and recommendable. 

Entering a Back of House role for the first time can be a daunting, yet rewarding experience. Understanding the variety of roles offered by this sector can help you to understand the many career options available.

Kitchen Manager

As a Kitchen Manager, you will bring to the role extensive experience working in a previous Back of House situation, preferably in a kitchen environment. You will have a strong knowledge of what makes the sector tick, contributing to changing menus and special offers. Previous experience managing a kitchen team is essential, as is experience working within a set budget.

Top Kitchen Manager Vacancies:

Kitchen Porter

As a Kitchen Porter, you will work in a varied and fast-paced role. You will provide an efficient and professional porterage service to guests, whilst delivering the highest levels of customer service at all times. The ability to work independently and in a timely manner is essential, as is the ability to work as part of a busy Kitchen team. Strong communication skills are essential, as are skills in basic numeracy and literacy.

Top Kitchen Porter Vacancies:

Catering Assistant

As a Catering Assistant, you will work as part of a wider Food and Beverage team in the preparation and serving of Food and Beverages. You will have a natural passion for food, bringing into the role previous experience working in a catering environment. Whilst training is provided in some cases, many vacant roles will require educational certificates in food hygiene or food preparation.

Top Catering Assistant Vacancies:

Bar Manager

As a Bar Manager, you will have strong experience working as a bartender, cocktail mixer or in a Front of House role. Bar Managers typically work closely with General Managers and Operations Managers, and will be responsible for the daily management of the bar and its assets. Strong customer service experience is essential, along with a commitment to shift work and overtime.

Top Bar Manager Vacancies:

Cleaner

Professional cleaning staff form the backbone of the Tourism & Hospitality Sector, taking ultimate responsibility for the hygiene and presentation of hotels, resorts and venues across the country. A keen eye for detail is highly desirable, as is experience working within a previous cleaning environment. In most cases, full training is provided.

Top Front of House Vacancies:

Head Chef

As a Head Chef, you will take ownership of your venue’s kitchen, including its output around food, beverages and service. You will bring extensive experience to your role working in previous senior chef roles, creating and updating menus that truly inspire your guests. Whilst management experience is highly desirable, successful candidates will also have experience working within a kitchen budget.

Top Head Chef Vacancies:

Now that you have a full oversight of the roles available within a Back of House environment, you are ready to find the perfect role to start your career in the sector.