Barback Salary in Fort Collins, CO
Barbacks in Fort Collins, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $14.90 per hour, which translates to about $596.00 per week, $2,582.67 per month, and $30,992.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Fort Collins is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a promising outlook and increasing opportunities within the hospitality industry locally.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Fort Collins, CO?
The salary of a Barback in Fort Collins varies with experience and employer, but here is an overview based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.90 | $596.00 | $2,582.67 | $30,992.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Fort Collins Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically do earn tips as a part of their compensation, often receiving an extra approximately $3 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment's busyness and tipping culture.
Barback Salary in Fort Collins vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Fort Collins have a slightly higher average hourly pay of $14.90 and an estimated yearly pay of $30,992.00. This reflects a competitive market influenced by local hospitality demands and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Collins for Barbacks
Nearby areas feature slightly different pay rates for Barbacks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Old Town: $16.00 per hour
Barbacks working in Old Town enjoy the highest pay near Fort Collins, which may reflect the area's vibrant nightlife and volume of hospitality venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Fort Collins?
The salary of a Barback can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks who demonstrate efficiency and reliability often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and nightclubs typically offer better pay compared to casual pubs or smaller venues.
- Shift Timing: Working late-night or weekend shifts might yield higher hourly rates or more substantial tips.
- Local Demand and Competition: A busy bar district with multiple venues can increase pay due to competition for skilled Barbacks.
- Additional Responsibilities: Barbacks who take on extra tasks such as stocking or assisting Bartenders might negotiate better pay.
How To Become a Barback in Fort Collins
Starting a career as a Barback in Fort Collins involves several steps:
- Gain Basic Hospitality Knowledge: Education through programs like Front Range Community College Hospitality Program, which covers bar operations and customer service skills, provides a solid foundation.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as TIPS Certification and ServSafe Alcohol Certification enhance your qualifications and demonstrate responsible alcohol service knowledge.
- Get Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in bars help build practical skills and increase employability.
- Develop Physical Stamina and Speed: Being able to work quickly and stand for long periods is essential in this field.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Fort Collins
Some notable establishments currently hiring Barbacks in Fort Collins include:
- The Yeti
- Kavasutra Kava Bar
- Cheba Hut
Establishments That Barbacks in Fort Collins Work At
Barbacks commonly find employment in various types of establishments such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Typically have moderate wages but often good tipping environments.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: Tend to offer higher pay rates and more substantial tipping opportunities due to higher customer volume.
- Restaurants with Bars: Pay can vary depending on the restaurant’s size and clientele, as well as night-time business.
The type of establishment influences not only the hourly wage but also the volume of tips and work environment for a Barback.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Collins for Barbacks
If you are exploring careers similar to Barback, consider these related roles that align within the hospitality sector:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter positions, all of which require similar customer service skills and offer varied earnings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Fort Collins
Barbacks should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax obligations relevant to their employment:
- You can learn more about Colorado’s labor laws and employment regulations on the state official website.
- For federal labor standards, including minimum wage and overtime rules, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.