Barback Salary in Durham, NC
Barbacks in Durham, NC, 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 Durham is growing steadily at about 2% per year, indicating a positive outlook for those seeking opportunities in this supportive role within the bustling hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Durham, NC?
The salary of a Barback in Durham varies with experience and the establishment. Below is a breakdown across different 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 Durham Earn Tips?
Barbacks usually earn some tips in addition to their base salary. This can amount to about an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the venue and shift, providing a meaningful boost to their earnings.
Barback Salary in Durham vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn on average about $14.50 per hour, which equates to roughly $30,160 per year.
Comparatively, Barbacks in Durham earn slightly less per hour at $13.90, and below the national annual average of $30,160. This is reflective of local market conditions and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Durham for Barbacks
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Barbacks include:
- Downtown Durham: $15.50 per hour
- Ninth Street: $14.80 per hour
Those willing to commute to areas like Downtown Durham could benefit from an increased hourly wage compared to the city average.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Durham?
Several factors affect how much a Barback can earn in Durham:
- Experience: Those with more years supporting bars and knowledge of drink preparation techiques tend to earn higher wages.
- Skills: Multi-tasking and efficiency, along with familiarity with beverage service operations, can increase salary potential.
- Type of Establishment: Bars in upscale or busy nightlife districts often pay more than small casual bars or restaurants.
- Tips and Bonuses: The ability to earn substantial tips is influenced by the quality of service and venue popularity.
How To Become a Barback in Durham
Starting a career as a Barback in Durham can be supported by several educational and certification steps:
- Consider enrolling in the Durham Tech Hospitality Management Program that offers foundational knowledge about food and beverage operations valuable for Barbacks.
- The Bartending School of Durham provides practical courses tailored to bartenders and supporting bar staff, enhancing skill sets.
- Obtain certifications like NC Alcohol Server Training and the ServSafe Alcohol Certification to demonstrate responsible alcohol service qualifications that many employers require.
- Gain on-the-job experience starting as bar support staff or in similar hospitality roles to develop essential skills.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Durham
Some notable employers in Durham seeking Barbacks include:
- The Durham Hotel
- Motorco Music Hall
- Fullsteam Brewery
Establishments That Barbacks in Durham Work At
Barbacks in Durham are typically employed in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These tend to offer consistent hours, with salaries in the moderate range.
- Fast Casual and Restaurants: Barbacks here might have varied pay depending on the establishment’s size and clientele.
- Nightclubs and Live Music Venues: Often pay higher wages and provide greater tipping opportunities due to busy crowds.
- Breweries and Hotels: May offer more formal work settings with steady pay and occasional benefits.
The type of establishment significantly impacts wages and tips, with high-energy nightlife venues generally providing the best earning prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Durham for Barbacks
Those interested in careers similar to Barback roles can explore related hospitality positions that offer varied responsibilities and pay scales.
These related roles include Bartender, Barista, and Bar Manager, all offering progressive career pathways and different salary potential within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Durham
Understanding labor regulations and tax obligations is important for Barbacks working in Durham.
- Federal labor laws and workplace rights can be explored at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- North Carolina specific labor laws and workplace standards are detailed on the North Carolina Department of Labor’s official site.
- The City of Durham’s official website provides local regulations and resources beneficial to workers and employers alike.