Barback Salary in Birmingham, AL
Barbacks in Birmingham, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The job market for Barbacks in Birmingham is showing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating rising demand and opportunities in bars and nightlife establishments across the city.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Birmingham, AL?
The salary of a Barback in Birmingham varies with level of experience and skills. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Barbacks in Birmingham Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in Birmingham typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. On average, they can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and shift, which can substantially boost their total earnings.
Barback Salary in Birmingham vs. National Average
Across the United States, Barbacks earn an average hourly wage of about $14.82, with annual salaries around $30,825.60.
Compared to these figures, Barbacks in Birmingham earn
Highest-Paying Areas Near Birmingham for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer significantly higher wages for Barbacks:
- Mountain Brook: $24.04 per hour
- Homewood: $22.50 per hour
Barbacks working in Mountain Brook and Homewood can expect nearly double the pay compared to Birmingham city, which may be worth considering for those willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Birmingham?
The salary of a Barback in Birmingham depends on several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Barbacks with more experience and strong knowledge of bar operations, beverage restocking, and customer service often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end bars, nightclubs, or luxury hotels typically results in better pay and larger tips than casual neighborhood bars.
- Work Hours and Shift Type: Night and weekend shifts can provide opportunity for increased tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Certifications and Training: Possessing certifications like responsible alcohol service can improve a Barback’s attractiveness to employers and possibly salary.
How To Become a Barback in Birmingham
For those interested in starting or advancing a career as a Barback in Birmingham, there are several practical steps to consider:
- Enroll in local Culinary Arts or Bartending programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Jefferson State Community College or specialized courses at the Bartending School of Birmingham. These provide foundational skills in beverage service and bar operations.
- Obtain certifications in alcohol service, like the Alabama Responsible Vendor Program and the ServSafe Alcohol Certification, which are often required by employers and enhance job prospects.
- Gain hands-on experience by working entry-level bar or restaurant support roles to build familiarity with bar setups and customer interactions.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Birmingham
Some of the prominent employers actively hiring Barbacks in Birmingham include:
- Dave & Buster's
- The Elyton Hotel
- J WINGS
Establishments That Barbacks in Birmingham Work At
Barbacks typically find employment in various types of establishments, including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Often provide steady work but generally lower wages and tips.
- Fast Casual and Nightclubs: May offer higher earning potential with busy environments and frequent tip opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages and provide opportunities for career advancement within hospitality.
- Event Venues and Large Restaurants: Seasonal work with varying pay scales depending on the size and prestige of the venue.
Differences in salary among these establishments are noticeable, with upscale locations and nightclubs typically offering the best overall compensation including tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Birmingham for Barbacks
Many career paths relate closely to that of a Barback, often sharing skills and work environments. If you’re looking to explore related roles, consider the following:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista roles, which provide different responsibilities and potentially higher salaries while staying within the hospitality and beverage service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Birmingham
Barbacks should be familiar with key labor laws and tax requirements to ensure their work rights and financial responsibilities are managed properly.
- Consult the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information on minimum wage, overtime, and workplace protections.
- The State of Alabama's Department of Labor website provides local employment rules and workers’ rights.
- The City of Birmingham's official website offers resources related to labor conditions and local ordinances.