Barback Salary in Garden Grove, CA
Barbacks in Garden Grove, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which equates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The job demand for Barbacks in Garden Grove is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook in the hospitality industry for those seeking employment in this role.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Garden Grove, CA?
The salary of a Barback in Garden Grove can vary based on experience and workplace, but the following table provides an overview across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Barbacks in Garden Grove Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks often earn tips as part of their compensation. On average, they can make an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. Tips can substantially increase total earnings for Barbacks working in busy bars and restaurants.
Barback Salary in Garden Grove vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn about $14.50 per hour, translating to an average annual salary of around $30,160.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Garden Grove earn a higher hourly wage at $16.50 per hour and a greater annual salary of about $34,320, reflecting the local labor market and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Garden Grove for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer competitive pay for Barbacks:
- Downtown Garden Grove: $17.00 per hour
- West Garden Grove: $16.80 per hour
Barbacks working in Downtown Garden Grove tend to earn slightly more due to the concentration of popular nightlife and hospitality venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Garden Grove?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Barback in Garden Grove:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks are often rewarded with higher wages and better tips.
- Skills: Efficiency, knowledge of bar operations, and good customer service skills can affect earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy bars usually pay more compared to smaller or casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Night shifts or weekends typically provide opportunities for increased tip income.
- Location within Garden Grove: Different neighborhoods can have varying wage standards based on demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Barback in Garden Grove
Becoming a Barback in Garden Grove involves several steps to gain relevant skills and certifications:
- Gain Basic Experience: Start with entry-level positions in bars or restaurants to learn the basics of service and bar operations.
- Attend Training Programs: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program offer culinary and bar operation skills training in nearby Costa Mesa.
- Enroll in Specialized Courses: Take courses at the Bartending School of Santa Ana, which provides focused instruction on bartending and barback responsibilities.
- Obtain Certifications: Acquire the California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification, which is mandatory for alcohol servers in the state.
- Food Safety Certifications: The Food Handler's Card is required to demonstrate safe food handling knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Garden Grove
Several well-known employers in the area actively seek skilled Barbacks:
- Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort and Spa
- Marriott International, Inc
- Yard House
Establishments That Barbacks in Garden Grove Work At
Barbacks in Garden Grove typically work at an array of venues, including casual dining spots, fast casual restaurants, lively bars, clubs, and hotels.
The type of establishment can significantly influence a Barback's earnings. Upscale bars and resorts usually offer better hourly wages and more generous tips than smaller or fast-casual restaurants.
Working in high-volume nightlife districts may increase tip potential, while quieter locations may provide steadier but lower overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Garden Grove for Barbacks
If you are exploring careers related to being a Barback, consider these similar roles:
These roles include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista — all requiring strong customer service skills and offering varied earning potentials across different establishments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Garden Grove
Barbacks in Garden Grove should be familiar with local and state regulations affecting their work and compensation.
- Consult the California Department of Industrial Relations for comprehensive information on labor laws and workplace regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources regarding employment services, taxes, and benefits.
- For localized government resources and updates, visit the City of Garden Grove Official Website.