Barback Salary in Costa Mesa, CA
In Costa Mesa, CA, Barbacks earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which amounts to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The job market for Barbacks in Costa Mesa is growing moderately at a rate of 5% per year, indicating an increasing demand for this supporting role in the hospitality and nightlife industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Costa Mesa, CA?
The salary of a Barback in Costa Mesa varies based on experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown illustrating average earnings across entry-level, mid-level, and top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.50 | $780.00 | $3,380.00 | $40,560.00 |
Do Barbacks in Costa Mesa Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks often earn tips that can significantly supplement their base pay. On average, a Barback in Costa Mesa may earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift.
Barback Salary in Costa Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour and approximately $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Barbacks in Costa Mesa earn a higher hourly wage of about $16.50 and make roughly $34,320 annually, reflecting the regional cost of living and local hospitality demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Costa Mesa for Barbacks
Nearby locations offer varied pay rates for Barbacks:
- South Coast Metro: $17.50 per hour
- Eastside Costa Mesa: $18.00 per hour
Barbacks in Eastside Costa Mesa typically earn the highest wages in the region, followed closely by South Coast Metro.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Costa Mesa?
Several factors impact how much a Barback can earn in Costa Mesa:
- Experience: Those with more experience handling busy bar environments or various beverage preparations typically earn higher wages.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills such as knowledge of bar inventory management or safety certifications can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, nightclubs, and high-volume venues may offer better pay and more generous tipping opportunities.
- Hours and Shift Times: Evening and weekend shifts may come with premium pay or increased tip earnings.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Costa Mesa's bustling hospitality scene and living expenses affect salary levels.
How To Become a Barback in Costa Mesa
Becoming a Barback in Costa Mesa involves building practical skills and often completing relevant certifications:
- Training Programs: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program offer foundational knowledge in culinary and beverage management helpful for Barbacks.
- Specialized Courses: The Bartending School of Orange County provides targeted courses focusing on Barback and bartending skills with practical experience.
- Certifications: Obtaining the California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification is mandatory for alcohol servers, ensuring the responsible service of alcohol.
- Additional Credentials: The ServSafe Alcohol Certification is another valuable credential recognized nationally, often required by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Costa Mesa
Some prominent employers currently hiring Barbacks in Costa Mesa include:
- Acapulco
- Yard House
- Water Grill South Coast Plaza
- The Winery Restaurant & Wine Bar
- Five Crowns
Establishments That Barbacks in Costa Mesa Work At
Barbacks usually find work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These venues may provide moderate wages but decent tipping opportunities.
- Nightclubs and High-Volume Bars: Higher pace and volume often correlate with better pay and larger tips.
- Upscale Restaurants and Lounges: These locations typically offer higher base pay and gratuities reflective of their clientele.
- Event Venues and Catering Companies: Often require employees to handle larger scale operations with competitive pay.
The type of establishment affects how much Barbacks can earn both in base salary and from tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Costa Mesa for Barbacks
For those interested in careers related to Barback, here are some similar roles worth exploring:
These positions include Bartender, Barista, and Bar Manager, which involve overlapping skills in beverage service and bar operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Costa Mesa
Barbacks in Costa Mesa should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations relevant to their employment.
- For California's labor laws and regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Employment services and tax information are available at the California Employment Development Department.
- For local government resources and regulations, explore the City of Costa Mesa Official Website.