Barback Salary in Bellevue, WA
Barbacks in Bellevue, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $20.76 per hour, which translates to about $830.40 per week, $3,598.40 per month, and $43,180.80 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Bellevue is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry for this position.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Bellevue, WA?
The salary of a Barback in Bellevue can vary depending on experience and employer, but here’s a general breakdown based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.76 | $830.40 | $3,598.40 | $43,180.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Barbacks in Bellevue Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips in addition to their base pay, typically making an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift. This can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Bellevue vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.82 per hour, translating to about $30,825.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Bellevue earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $20.76 and an annual salary of about $43,180.80.
This difference is often influenced by local economic factors and the hospitality industry's structure in Bellevue.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bellevue for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Barbacks:
- Downtown Bellevue: $22.00 per hour
- Bellevue Square: $21.50 per hour
Barbacks working in Downtown Bellevue tend to earn the highest wages among the nearby locations, possibly due to the area's vibrant nightlife and upscale venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Bellevue?
Several factors can influence how much a Barback earns in Bellevue:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with strong knowledge of bar operations and multitasking abilities tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, nightclubs, and hotels typically pay more compared to casual or fast-casual venues.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Working evening or weekend shifts can sometimes yield higher pay or more tips.
- Location: Positions in busier or high-end parts of Bellevue often command better salaries.
- Special Certifications: Having permits like the Washington State MAST Permit or Food Handler’s Permit can make a candidate more desirable.
How To Become a Barback in Bellevue
To become a successful Barback in Bellevue, consider these steps:
- Training Programs: Enroll in training centers such as the Bartending School of Seattle, which offers comprehensive barbacking and bartending skills training including mixology and customer service.
- Educational Courses: Courses from Seattle Central College Culinary Arts Program provide valuable knowledge in hospitality management and beverage service.
- Required Permits: Obtain the mandatory Washington State MAST Permit and Food Handler’s Permit which are essential for legal alcohol service and food safety compliance in Washington.
- Gain Experience: Start by working in entry-level hospitality roles to build practical skills and industry knowledge.
- Networking: Connect with local hospitality professionals and seek opportunities for advancement within restaurants and bars.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Bellevue
Several notable venues in Bellevue that regularly hire Barbacks include:
- Nectar Lounge
- Rob Roy
- McDonald's
Establishments That Barbacks in Bellevue Work At
Barbacks in Bellevue typically find employment across a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Bars and Neighborhood Pubs: These offer steady shifts and a friendly environment with moderate earning potential.
- Nightclubs and Upscale Lounges: Working here often results in higher pay and better tips due to the busy, high-energy setting.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues may provide benefits and consistent work but might pay slightly less in tips.
- Fast Casual Chains: While these usually have lower salaries, they often offer flexible hours and entry-level opportunities.
The type of establishment has a direct impact on salary and tipping potential, with upscale and busy venues typically providing the highest earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bellevue for Barbacks
If you're exploring options close to a Barback role, consider these related careers that require similar skills and offer diverse opportunities.
These roles include Bartender, Barback, and Barista, all of which share a focus on bar service and customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Bellevue
Barbacks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax responsibilities relevant to their work to protect their rights and ensure compliance.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for detailed information on workplace rights and labor regulations.
- For federal labor laws and support, the U.S. Department of Labor's official site is a comprehensive resource.