Barback Salary in Hartford, CT
Barbacks in Hartford, CT, 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 job market for Barbacks in Hartford is growing at a rate of about 5% per year, suggesting an increasing demand for this essential hospitality support role.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Hartford, CT?
The salary of a Barback in Hartford can vary based on experience and employer type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings across different experience 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Hartford Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically do earn tips when supporting busy Bars and Nightclubs. They can make approximately $10 per hour in tips in addition to their base wage, depending on the venue and shift.
Barback Salary in Hartford, CT vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Hartford earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 but remain competitive with a yearly salary of $28,912. This difference may reflect local economy and establishment types.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hartford for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer different salary prospects for Barbacks:
- West Hartford: $15.50 per hour
- East Hartford: $14.80 per hour
Barbacks may find better compensation opportunities in West Hartford, making it a notable location for job seekers willing to commute from Hartford.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Hartford?
The salary of a Barback in Hartford can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with knowledge of bar setup, inventory management, and customer service usually earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bars, high-volume Nightclubs, or luxury hotels can provide higher pay than casual or fast bar settings.
- Location: Wages differ based on the neighborhood or city; central Hartford vs. suburbs like West Hartford impact earnings.
- Shift Timing: Late-night or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials or increased tips.
- Certifications: Holding certifications related to alcohol service or hospitality can enhance earning potential.
How To Become a Barback in Hartford
Starting a career as a Barback in Hartford generally requires minimal formal education but benefits greatly from specialized training.
Prospective Barbacks can consider the following to boost their employment potential:
- Attend Bartending School of Hartford: This school offers comprehensive training in bartending and barback duties, including mixology and customer service.
- Enroll in Capital Community College Hospitality Program: Provides courses in hospitality management focusing on bar operations and service, ideal for developing relevant skills.
- Obtain ServSafe Alcohol Certification: Many employers in Connecticut require responsible alcohol service certification.
- Earn TIPS Certification: Training for Intervention ProcedureS certification enhances responsible alcohol serving skills valued in hospitality jobs.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Hartford
Several notable employers in Hartford regularly seek skilled Barbacks, including:
- Mohegan Sun
- Barcelona Wine Bar
- Union Kitchen
Establishments That Barbacks in Hartford Work At
Barbacks are employed in various hospitality settings in Hartford. These include:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Often entry points providing moderate wages and valuable experience.
- Fast Casual and Casual Dining Restaurants: Where bar service complements food service, offering stable employment.
- Nightclubs: Higher volume venues offering better tips but demanding faster pace and longer hours.
- Hotels and Casinos: Premium establishments may offer higher salaries and benefits.
The type of establishment affects the salary range significantly as busier and upscale venues tend to pay more and provide more opportunities for tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hartford for Barbacks
Those interested in similar hospitality roles to Barback might consider the following related careers:
This includes Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter positions which involve customer interaction, service, and operational support roles within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Hartford
Barbacks in Hartford should be familiar with local labor laws and federal tax obligations to ensure compliance and proper wage management.
- Connecticut Department of Labor website provides information on labor laws and employment regulations: Connecticut Department of Labor
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) site offers guidance on federal tax information and employer responsibilities: Internal Revenue Service (IRS)