Barback Salary in Charlotte, NC
Barbacks in Charlotte, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $15.38 per hour, which translates to about $615.20 per week, $2,665.87 per month, and $31,990.40 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Charlotte is growing at a rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook in the hospitality and bar service industry locally.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Charlotte, NC?
The salary of a Barback in Charlotte varies depending on experience and employer, but here’s an overview of typical earnings across different levels of expertise.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Charlotte Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips as a supplemental income. On average, they can make around $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue and shift, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Charlotte vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which is about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Charlotte make slightly more hourly at $15.38 per hour, and their yearly salary is also higher at $31,990.40.
This reflects the competitive hospitality market in Charlotte and the city's growing bar and nightlife industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charlotte for Barbacks
Exploring specific neighborhoods near Charlotte gives insight into where Barbacks can earn the most:
- Uptown: $16.50 per hour
- South End: $17.60 per hour
South End offers the highest-paying opportunities for Barbacks nearby, likely due to its vibrant nightlife and growing number of trendy bars.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Charlotte?
Several factors play a role in determining how much a Barback can earn in Charlotte:
- Experience Level: More experienced Barbacks typically earn more as they develop efficiency and better knowledge of bar operations.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills like speed, multitasking, and certifications in alcohol service can enhance pay potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars and nightclubs tend to pay more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may come with higher pay due to demand.
- Location: Bars located in upscale neighborhoods or busy districts often offer better wages.
How To Become a Barback in Charlotte
To start a career as a Barback in Charlotte, consider the following steps:
- Training and Education: Enroll in programs like the Bartending School of Charlotte, which offers comprehensive courses covering bar operations and mixology fundamentals.
- Community College Courses: The CPCC Hospitality Education Program offers relevant education in beverage management and hospitality skills.
- Certification: Completing mandatory programs such as NC Alcohol Server Training or the nationally recognized ServSafe Alcohol Certification enhances employability and compliance.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions working under Bartenders allow development of skills and industry insight.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Charlotte
Some of the top employers currently hiring Barbacks in Charlotte include:
- Topgolf
- 131 MAIN Restaurant
- LBJ Commercial LLC
Establishments That Barbacks in Charlotte Work At
Barbacks in Charlotte typically find employment in a range of establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual venues, nightclubs, and upscale bars.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary levels and tips. For example, Barbacks in upscale bars and nightclubs tend to earn higher wages and more in tips compared to those working in casual or fast-casual setups.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charlotte for Barbacks
If you're interested in roles related to being a Barback, you might consider these similar careers:
These roles include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter, which share similarities in work environment and skills required.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Charlotte
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Barbacks to ensure proper work conditions and compliance.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide standards.
- Specific state labor rules can be found on the North Carolina Department of Labor's official site.
- Local ordinances and resources are available at the City of Charlotte's official website.