Barback Salary in Davenport, IA
Barbacks in Davenport, IA, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Davenport is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for hospitality support roles in the region.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Davenport, IA?
The salary of a Barback in Davenport can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview of 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Davenport Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips as part of their compensation. In Davenport, a Barback can typically make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment's volume and generosity of patrons.
Barback Salary in Davenport vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Davenport earn slightly less with an average hourly wage of $13.90 and an annual salary of $28,912.
This small gap reflects differences in local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Davenport for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer higher salaries for Barbacks:
- Downtown Davenport: $15.50 per hour
- East Village: $17.60 per hour
Working in these areas could provide better compensation due to the busier nightlife and hospitality sectors.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Davenport?
Several factors can impact how much a Barback earns:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks usually command better wages.
- Skills: Those with strong multitasking and organizational abilities may earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and luxury hotels often offer higher pay than casual bars or clubs.
- Shift Timing: Night shifts and weekends might have higher pay or increased tipping potential.
- Tip Income: Variability in tips can significantly affect total earnings.
How To Become a Barback in Davenport
Starting a career as a Barback in Davenport involves a few steps:
- Gain on-the-job experience by working in entry-level hospitality roles.
- Consider formal education programs such as the Scott Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers training including bar operations.
- Eastern Iowa Community Colleges Hospitality Management Program provides coursework relevant to Barback duties.
- Obtain certifications like the Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division Certification, which is required for those serving alcohol.
- The ServSafe Alcohol Certification is nationally recognized and often sought by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Davenport
Key employers looking for Barbacks in the Davenport area include:
- Red Robin
- Sodexo
- DoubleTree by Hilton Davenport
Establishments That Barbacks in Davenport Work At
Barbacks work in a variety of hospitality establishments, such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Typically offer moderate wages but steady work with potential tips.
- Fast Casual and Chains: Standard pay with less variability in tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: May provide higher wages, benefits, and opportunities for advancement.
- Nightclubs: Often involve late shifts with higher tipping potential but demanding work.
The type of venue can significantly impact both wages and tips for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Davenport for Barbacks
If you're interested in careers similar to Barback, consider these related roles in hospitality:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter, which have related duties or require similar skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Davenport
Understanding local labor laws and taxes is important for Barbacks working in Davenport.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Iowa for state employment laws and regulations.
- The City of Davenport's official website offers local government and workforce resources.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor laws and worker protections.
