Barback Salary in Baton Rouge, LA
Barbacks in Baton Rouge, LA, in 2026, earn approximately $11.92 per hour, which translates to about $476.80 per week, $2,066.13 per month, and $24,793.60 per year.
The job market for Barbacks in Baton Rouge is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a rising demand for this vital support role within the hospitality and nightlife industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Baton Rouge, LA?
The salary of a Barback in Baton Rouge varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown of earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.36 | $334.40 | $1,446.93 | $17,388.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.92 | $476.80 | $2,066.13 | $24,793.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.01 | $680.40 | $2,945.47 | $35,380.80 |
Do Barbacks in Baton Rouge Earn Tips?
Barbacks generally earn tips, often receiving an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips depending on the establishment's busyness and customer generosity. This can significantly supplement their base pay and overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Baton Rouge vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average hourly wage of about $14.83 per hour and approximately $30,846.40 per year. Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Baton Rouge earn slightly less on an hourly basis with $11.92 per hour and roughly $24,793.60 yearly.
This difference can be attributed to regional cost of living and local market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Baton Rouge for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer these hourly wages for Barbacks:
- Downtown: $12.50 per hour
- Southdowns: $13.00 per hour
Working in Southdowns can offer a slight salary advantage, while Downtown also remains competitive for Barbacks commuting from Baton Rouge.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Baton Rouge?
Several factors influence a Barback’s salary in Baton Rouge:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks who efficiently support bartenders and manage bar stock tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, clubs, and high-volume venues often offer better pay compared to casual or neighborhood bars.
- Certifications: Having certifications such as Responsible Vendor Training or ServSafe Alcohol Certification can increase employability and salary potential.
- Shift Timing: Late-night and weekend shifts sometimes come with shift premiums or more tip opportunities.
- Work Performance and Reputation: Reliable and hardworking Barbacks may be tipped better and promoted quicker.
How To Become a Barback in Baton Rouge
To become a Barback in Baton Rouge, consider these steps:
- Complete Hospitality Management Courses: Programs like Baton Rouge Community College Hospitality Management Program provide foundational skills useful for bar support roles.
- Attend Beverage Management Training: The Louisiana Culinary Institute Beverage Management Course offers knowledge about bar operations and service techniques.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: Responsible Vendor Training is required in Louisiana for alcohol service, ensuring compliance with laws and responsible serving.
- Acquire National Certifications: Earning ServSafe Alcohol Certification further enhances credentials and job prospects.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Barbacks start by working in fast casual or casual drinking venues to learn the ropes.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Baton Rouge
Several well-known venues actively hire Barbacks in Baton Rouge, including:
- Queen Baton Rouge
- Belle of Baton Rouge
- Tiger Paw Grill
- Daiquiris
Establishments That Barbacks in Baton Rouge Work At
Barbacks typically work in a range of establishments such as:
- Casual Bars: These are common places where Barbacks earn moderate salaries and gain valuable experience.
- Fast Casual Venues: These places often have high turnover and steady workflow, leading to consistent hourly wages.
- Nightclubs and High-Volume Bars: These establishments usually provide higher pay and tipping potential due to large customer bases.
- Hotels and Casinos: More formal environments may offer better benefits and pay.
The salary can often vary widely depending on the venue’s size, clientele, and reputation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Baton Rouge for Barbacks
If you're exploring career options similar to Barback, consider roles that also support hospitality and bar operations.
Relevant careers include Bartender, Barback, and Barista, each with their own roles and earning potentials within bars and foodservice establishments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Baton Rouge
It’s important for Barbacks to understand labor laws and tax responsibilities at the federal, state, and local levels.
- Federal labor regulations can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific workforce development and labor laws are available on the Louisiana Workforce Commission site.
- Local employment resources and ordinances can be accessed through the City of Baton Rouge official website.