A bouncer is hired security for an establishment where alcohol is served. They have many different duties, including vetting patrons on entry to ensure they are of age and not intoxicated to the degree that they may be a danger to others or themselves. In addition to monitoring who enters the establishment, they watch for situations that could escalate as alcohol or drugs is added to the social environment: arguments that may escalate, physical altercations, unwanted advances that are turned down and the message to move on is ignored, unsafe conduct (climbing onto a stage when intoxicated, dancing on a speaker when it is against club rules, etc.), watching for movements and actions that could turn violent, patrons that become unruly or over-intoxicated, harassment of staff, and monitoring all areas within the club for safety. They also monitor for situations that could put the club at legal risk (illegal drugs being sold and consumed, people attempting to drink and drive, etc.)

A bouncer is typically very fit and imposing, and if necessary, will rely on the intimation factor to discourage situations from escalating that could put other patrons in danger. Physical interaction is used as a last resort to expel a customer when it becomes necessary to do so. Instead, quick wit, humor, and the ability to keep the situation as relaxed as possible by talking the situation out while steering the person to the exit are tools used to deescalate the situation. Reasoning with patrons that leaving is in their best interest to avoid involving the police and so they can get on with their night elsewhere where they will have more fun is the goal. If the situation escalates and becomes physical, or the bouncer, club employees, patrons, or the person being evicted themselves is in danger, then police will be called to take over the situation.

What a bouncer can and cannot do to remove someone from the premises varies greatly depending on the laws of the state or province, so if you are writing a real-world bouncer, check into local laws. In most cases the bouncer has no more rights that an average citizen, and so rough handling and fights will rarely happen as this puts the bouncer and the establishment at risk for legal charges and being sued. They typically only engage physically to defend themselves, and only use reasonable force. Most will not carry a weapon, even if it is legal to do so. Their work attire may be casual (a t-shirt or collared shirt with the bar's logo) or upscale (business suit) depending on the event and venue.

Training will vary depending on where the nightclub is located, but most bouncers do enter a training program so they better understand the scope of their work and learn techniques to spot problems before they start and how to deescalate and remove patrons in a safe and legal way for all involved. Bouncers may have to pass a drug test, have a background check, have a high school diploma, or other conditions in place depending on the venue's location and hiring policies.

Bouncers may work a variety of venues: clubs, concerts, beer gardens, celebrity functions, special celebrations, strip clubs, invite-only private functions, casinos, restaurants, bars, etc. and their role may be tailored to suit the location and event.

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