Barback Salary in Elizabeth, NJ
Barbacks in Elizabeth, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $13.20 per hour, which translates to about $528.00 per week, $2,288.00 per month, and $27,456.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Elizabeth is growing moderately at about 2% per year, indicating a steady need for support roles in the local hospitality and nightlife industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Elizabeth, NJ?
The salary of a Barback in Elizabeth can vary based on experience and the type of establishment, but here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.90 | $476.00 | $2,057.33 | $24,752.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.20 | $528.00 | $2,288.00 | $27,456.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.40 | $616.00 | $2,653.33 | $31,984.00 |
Do Barbacks in Elizabeth Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks typically earn tips. While their base salary is hourly, tips can add a significant amount, sometimes an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the venue and shift.
Barback Salary in Elizabeth, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.80 per hour, translating to about $30,784 annually.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Elizabeth earn a bit less per hour at $13.20, which may reflect local market factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Elizabeth for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Barbacks:
- Downtown Elizabeth: $14.50 per hour
- Elmora: $14.00 per hour
These surrounding neighborhoods offer competitive wages, with Downtown Elizabeth providing the highest pay for Barbacks close to the city center.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Elizabeth?
Several factors can influence how much a Barback earns in Elizabeth:
- Experience and Skills: Experienced Barbacks who are efficient and knowledgeable tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and nightclubs usually pay better than casual or fast casual restaurants.
- Shift Timing: Late-night or weekend shifts often come with higher pay and better tips.
- Location: Barbacks working in downtown or busy entertainment districts may receive higher compensation due to increased customer volume.
- Certifications: Having certifications related to alcohol service and food safety can improve employability and wage potential.
How To Become a Barback in Elizabeth
Becoming a Barback in Elizabeth involves a combination of relevant training and hands-on experience.
- Enroll in Hospitality Courses: Programs such as Union County College Hospitality Management Program offer foundational knowledge in bar operations relevant to Barback roles.
- Take Bartending Courses: Courses like the Elizabeth Adult School Bartending Course provide practical skills that can help Barbacks assist Bartenders effectively.
- Obtain Certifications: Earning a TIPS Certification is often required and demonstrates responsible alcohol service knowledge.
- Food Safety Training: The Food Handler's Permit ensures compliance with safe food and beverage practices.
- Gain Entry-Level Experience: Many Barbacks start with part-time or assisting roles and advance through on-the-job learning.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Elizabeth
Some of the leading establishments seeking skilled Barbacks in Elizabeth include:
- The Lobby
- Dolce Lounge
- BarCode
Establishments That Barbacks in Elizabeth Work At
Barbacks typically find work at a variety of establishments, including casual bars, nightclubs, lounges, and fast casual restaurants.
The type of establishment can significantly influence salaried amounts. Upscale lounges or busy nightclubs often offer better pay and larger tips compared to smaller casual bars.
Additionally, working at venues with higher customer volumes may result in greater tip earnings for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Elizabeth for Barbacks
If you are exploring related roles to Barback, you might consider the following hospitality positions which have overlapping duties and skill requirements:
This includes Bartender, Barista, and Bar Manager roles, all of which require strong knowledge of bar operations and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Elizabeth
Barbacks should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax obligations at the federal, state, and local level to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Check the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor regulations.
- Refer to the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development for state-specific employment laws and resource guides.
- The City of Elizabeth official website provides information on local ordinances and employment services.