Barback Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Barbacks in Chattanooga, TN, in 2026, earn approximately $12.52 per hour, which translates to about $500.80 per week, $2,170.13 per month, and $26,041.60 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Chattanooga is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for career opportunities in the hospitality sector in this region.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of a Barback in Chattanooga can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| 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) | $12.52 | $500.80 | $2,170.13 | $26,041.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
Do Barbacks in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks often earn tips in this role. On average, a Barback can make an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. This can significantly increase overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.82 per hour, which amounts to about $30,825.60 per year.
In comparison, Barbacks in Chattanooga earn slightly less than the national average with about $12.52 per hour and $26,041.60 annually. This difference may reflect local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Barbacks, including:
- Downtown Chattanooga: $13.50 per hour
- North Shore: $14.00 per hour
Barbacks working in North Shore can expect some of the highest pay rates in the vicinity, which reflects the area's vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Chattanooga?
Several key factors impact how much a Barback can earn in Chattanooga:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Barbacks with strong knowledge of beverage preparation and inventory management can demand higher salaries.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, hotels, and busy nightclubs typically offer better pay and tip opportunities compared to casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with increased tipping potential and sometimes shift differentials.
- Location: Working in high-traffic areas like Downtown or North Shore tends to pay more due to higher demand and customer volume.
- Certification and Education: Additional certifications related to alcohol service and safety may improve employment prospects and salary.
How To Become a Barback in Chattanooga
To start a career as a Barback in Chattanooga, consider the following steps:
- Gain Foundational Knowledge: Enroll in hospitality programs such as the Chattanooga State Community College Hospitality Management Program, which provides valuable insights into the industry.
- Practical Training: Join courses like the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga Continuing Education Bartending Course, which covers essential bartending and Barback duties.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: Secure certifications like the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit and ServSafe Alcohol Certification to comply with state laws and employer requirements.
- Get On-the-Job Experience: Start in entry-level roles in bars or restaurants to learn the trade and build experience.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Chattanooga
Some of the leading employers seeking Barbacks in Chattanooga include:
- Embassy Suites Chattanooga
- The Daily Ration
- Osaka Sushi Steakhouse
Establishments That Barbacks in Chattanooga Work At
Barbacks in Chattanooga find employment in a variety of venues:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Often provide steady work with moderate tipping opportunities.
- Fast-Casual Restaurants: May offer opportunities but usually with less tipping potential.
- Hotels and Resorts: Typically provide higher wages and structured shifts with possible benefits.
- Nightclubs: Usually have higher pace and demand, with greater tip potential.
The type of establishment affects Barback earnings considerably, especially through varying tip amounts and base pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Barbacks
For those interested in roles similar to Barback, here are a few related positions worth considering:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter positions, all of which share certain skill sets and working environments with the Barback role.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Chattanooga
Barbacks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations affecting their work in Chattanooga:
- Learn about Tennessee state labor laws on the official Tennessee government website, which includes wage and workplace rules.
- For federal labor regulations and workplace standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's website.