Barback Salary in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Barbacks in Fort Lauderdale, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $20.43 per hour, which translates to about $817.20 per week, $3,541.20 per month, and $42,494.40 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Fort Lauderdale is experiencing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market for hospitality support roles in the area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Fort Lauderdale, FL?
The salary of a Barback in Fort Lauderdale can vary depending on experience, specific establishment, and tips, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.87 | $634.80 | $2,740.40 | $32,937.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.43 | $817.20 | $3,541.20 | $42,494.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.44 | $1,057.60 | $4,569.07 | $54,995.20 |
Do Barbacks in Fort Lauderdale Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in Fort Lauderdale typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. These tips can range around $3 to $8 per hour, depending on the venue and shift, significantly boosting their overall income.
Barback Salary in Fort Lauderdale vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.82 per hour, which equates to around $30,825.60 per year.
Barbacks in Fort Lauderdale earn a notably higher wage compared to the national average, with an average pay of $20.43 per hour and $42,494.40 annually. This premium reflects local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lauderdale for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Barbacks, including:
- Downtown Fort Lauderdale: $22.50 per hour
- Las Olas Boulevard: $24.00 per hour
Barbacks working in these vibrant, high-traffic districts often enjoy higher earning potential due to more upscale venues and busy nightlife.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Fort Lauderdale?
Several factors influence a Barback’s salary in Fort Lauderdale:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with more experience or who have gained bartending skills often earn higher wages and more tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, nightclubs, and resorts typically pay better than smaller or casual establishments.
- Shift Timing: Late-night or weekend shifts may come with higher tips or shift differentials.
- Location: Working in busy nightlife districts or popular tourist areas often results in higher earnings.
- Certifications and Training: Completion of relevant hospitality or responsible alcohol service training can improve employability and pay.
How To Become a Barback in Fort Lauderdale
To start a career as a Barback in Fort Lauderdale, consider the following steps:
- Gain foundational knowledge in hospitality: Programs like the Hospitality Operations Certificate at Broward College provide valuable basics about bar service and customer interactions.
- Enroll in specialized training: The Bartending School of Fort Lauderdale offers hands-on lessons in barback duties and mixology that prepare you for entry-level roles.
- Obtain required certifications: Completing Responsible Vendor Training and Food Handler Certification ensures you meet state requirements for employment.
- Build experience: Working in entry-level hospitality jobs or bartending internships can help develop practical skills and open doors.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Fort Lauderdale
Contributing to Fort Lauderdale’s vibrant hospitality scene, these employers frequently hire Barbacks:
- Hilton Fort Lauderdale Beach Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton Fort Lauderdale
- Blue Martini Lounge
- Twin Peaks Restaurants
Establishments That Barbacks in Fort Lauderdale Work At
Barbacks typically work in various types of venues:
- Nightclubs and Bars: These often provide the highest tips and wages.
- Resorts and Hotels: Barbacks here may enjoy steady shifts and additional benefits.
- Casual and Fast-Casual Restaurants: Usually offer stable but generally lower wages.
- Event Venues and Banquet Halls: Seasonal work with variable pay depending on events.
The salary differences among these venues depend on the establishment’s size, clientele, and the volume of business during shifts.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lauderdale for Barbacks
If you're exploring roles similar to Barback, consider these related hospitality positions that may offer alternative career paths:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Bar Manager, roles within the beverage service industry that may have overlapping skills and career progression opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Fort Lauderdale
Barbacks in Fort Lauderdale should keep informed about local, state, and federal labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities:
- U.S. Department of Labor provides comprehensive information on federal labor laws and regulations.
- The Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation maintains state licensing and regulations for hospitality workers, which include requirements for bar staff.
- The City of Fort Lauderdale Official Website offers details on local employment ordinances and resources.