Barback Salary in Arlington, VA
Barbacks in Arlington, VA, earn approximately $17.33 per hour, which equates to about $693.20 per week, $3,003.87 per month, and $36,046.40 per year.
The job market for Barbacks in Arlington is looking positive with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for support roles in the vibrant hospitality scene.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Arlington, VA?
The earnings of a Barback in Arlington vary based on experience and skill level. Below is a general breakdown of salaries across different experience stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.33 | $693.20 | $3,003.87 | $36,046.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Barbacks in Arlington Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips in addition to their base wage, usually making an extra estimate of around $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue and shift, which can significantly boost total earnings during busy nights.
Barback Salary in Arlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.82 per hour and roughly $30,825.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Arlington earn higher wages, averaging $17.33 per hour and $36,046.40 per year. This reflects the competitive hospitality industry in Arlington and the area's higher cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arlington for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Barbacks as well:
- Clarendon: $18.50 per hour
- Rosslyn: $19.00 per hour
These neighborhoods provide attractive pay scales, often reflecting bustling nightlife and active bar scenes.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Arlington?
Several factors play into how much a Barback earns in Arlington, including:
- Experience Level: More experienced Barbacks command higher salaries and better tip opportunities.
- Skills and Efficiency: Skills in quick restocking, cleanliness, and supporting Bartenders can make a Barback more valuable.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and busy nightclubs tend to offer higher wages and more tips compared to casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often yield more tips and sometimes higher pay rates.
- Local Demand: Arlington’s vibrant hospitality scene influences wages to remain competitive.
How To Become a Barback in Arlington
Starting a career as a Barback involves a mix of practical experience and formal preparation:
- Attend Bartending School of Arlington: Their programs cover key components like mixology, bar operations, and customer service—valuable for any Barback aiming to advance in the field.
- Enroll in Northern Virginia Community College Hospitality Program: These courses provide foundational knowledge in hospitality management, including bar and restaurant operations.
- Acquire Required Licenses: Obtaining the Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) License is essential for legal compliance and responsible alcohol service.
- Earn ServSafe Alcohol Certification: This nationally recognized certification certifies knowledge of alcohol safety and service practices often required by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Arlington
If you're seeking Barback positions, these employers frequently hire in Arlington:
- Busboys and Poets
- Ambar - Clarendon
- MHG Cafe Clarendon LLC
- Washington Golf & Country Club
- Silver Diner Development LLC
Establishments That Barbacks in Arlington Work At
Barbacks in Arlington typically find employment in various hospitality settings:
- Casual Bars: These often provide steady work hours but may offer moderate salaries.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Employment here may involve supporting both the bar and dining areas, potentially increasing pay and tip opportunities.
- Nightclubs and High-Volume Bars: These venues usually offer the highest wages and tips due to the fast-paced environment and large crowds.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Often paying competitive salaries with chances for overtime and additional tips.
The type of establishment strongly influences salary and tip potential, with high-energy, upscale venues tending to pay more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arlington for Barbacks
Barbacks interested in exploring similar hospitality roles might consider expanding into related careers that build on their skills and experience.
Related roles include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Backwaiter, each offering different responsibilities and salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Arlington
Barbacks should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations governing their employment to ensure fair work conditions and legal compliance.
- Federal labor regulations can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws and employment rules are available at the Commonwealth of Virginia official site.
- Local employment resources and county-specific regulations can be found on the Arlington County official website.