Cocktail server jobs all deal with the entertainment industry, so almost all cocktail server jobs will be in a bar, nightclub, casino, or other entertainment venue. All of these jobs will require the server to be social and friendly, as well as a quick worker and accurate cashier. Some cocktail server jobs may require the server to wear a specific outfit or costume that fits the theme of the establishment. Almost all servers work for tips, so the busier the establishment gets nightly, the better a server's wages will be.
Most bars and nightclub have cocktail server jobs available for experienced and non-experienced candidates. In this setting, a server will take drink orders, enter those orders into any sort of computer system the establishment might use, deliver the drinks, and keep track of the patron's tab. A server may also be responsible for cleaning tables after patrons have left, and preparing the table for the next guests. Less defined responsibilities include being friendly and gregarious with customers and making them feel comfortable in the establishment; generally speaking, the friendlier and more outgoing a server is, the better his or her tips will be.
Some specialized establishments have cocktail server jobs available as well, though these tend to be more difficult jobs to obtain. Most casinos and nightclubs hire only experienced servers, and the establishment may have other requirements excluding the majority of candidates from the job. Casino cocktail server jobs are the most difficult to get, not only because the jobs themselves are scarce, but also because casinos are highly selective in choosing servers who can deliver drinks through crowds for long periods of time without spilling or making mistakes. These jobs also may require servers to wear special outfits that fit the theme of the casino, which may make some servers feel uncomfortable.
Other specialized clubs may require that a cocktail server possess other skills beyond just serving. Some specialized theaters and entertainment clubs may require the cocktail server to sing, dance, or otherwise perform while serving drinks. Casinos, too, will often require the servers to perform other tasks beyond simply serving drinks. Most restaurants and bars, however, do not require such things unless the establishment caters to a specific audience. Restaurant and bar cocktail server jobs are the best choice for a beginner server, as it is usually a lower stress environment with fewer crowds to work around.