Barback Salary in Boise, ID
Barbacks in Boise, ID, in 2025, earn approximately $18.29 per hour, which translates to about $731.60 per week, $3,170.27 per month, and $38,043.20 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Boise is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating positive job opportunities and a stable market for hospitality support roles in this region.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Boise, ID?
The salary of a Barback in Boise varies based on experience, skills, and employer. Below is a typical breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.22 | $528.80 | $2,289.07 | $27,468.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.29 | $731.60 | $3,170.27 | $38,043.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.32 | $1,012.80 | $4,387.20 | $52,665.60 |
Do Barbacks in Boise Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in Boise often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. Tips can vary depending on the venue, but it’s common for Barbacks to make an extra $5-$15 per hour in tips during busy shifts, adding significant income potential to their base salary.
Barback Salary in Boise vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.83 per hour, which translates to roughly $30,846.40 annually.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Boise earn more per hour and annually, reflecting the city’s growing hospitality industry and competitive wages for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boise for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer different pay rates for Barbacks:
- Downtown Boise: $19.50 per hour
- North End: $18.00 per hour
Working in Downtown Boise generally offers higher pay, likely due to the concentration of upscale bars and nightlife venues requiring support staff.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Boise?
The salary of a Barback in Boise depends on several factors:
- Experience: More years in the industry generally lead to higher wages and better tip opportunities.
- Skills: Efficiency in multitasking, knowledge of drink preparation support, and excellent customer service can boost earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, cocktail lounges, and busy nightclubs typically pay more than casual bars or smaller venues.
- Location within Boise: Bars in high-traffic areas like Downtown may offer higher pay due to demand and clientele.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often yield more tips and sometimes shift premiums.
How To Become a Barback in Boise
Starting a career as a Barback can be accomplished through a few important steps:
- Complete Relevant Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Programs like the Boise State University Hospitality Management Program or the College of Western Idaho Culinary Arts Program provide foundational industry knowledge that can help Barbacks understand restaurant operations better.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications such as the Idaho Alcohol Server Training Certification and the nationally recognized ServSafe Alcohol Certification are important to ensure compliance with state laws and responsible service practices.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level roles in bars or restaurants, such as Barback or Busser, provide practical on-the-job learning opportunities.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude will enhance employment prospects and workplace success.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Boise
Several notable establishments hire Barbacks in Boise, including:
- Prost!
- North End Pizza
- Matlack’s
- Twin Peaks Restaurants
- Yard House
Establishments That Barbacks in Boise Work At
Barbacks typically work at a variety of venues within the hospitality sector:
- Casual Bars: These provide consistent hours and foundational experience but often offer lower pay compared to upscale venues.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Some serve alcohol, offering Barbacks opportunities to earn tips along with hourly wages.
- Nightclubs and Cocktail Lounges: These establishments often have higher foot traffic and bigger tip potentials, thus offering higher overall compensation.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Barbacks here may enjoy higher salaries, benefits, and more structured career advancement opportunities.
The type of establishment impacts both base salary and tip earnings significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boise for Barbacks
If you are interested in roles related to Barback, consider these similar careers which also play an important role in hospitality:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter positions, all of which are integral to bar and restaurant operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Boise
Barbacks working in Boise should be familiar with labor regulations and taxation to safeguard their rights and ensure compliance.
- Check federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment resources, visit the Idaho Department of Labor website.
- The City of Boise official website provides useful resources on local worker regulations and programs.