Barback Salary in Hawthorne, CA
Barbacks in Hawthorne, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.00 per hour, which translates to about $680.00 per week, $2,946.67 per month, and $35,360.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Hawthorne is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities and need for support staff in the bar and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Hawthorne, CA?
The salary of a Barback in Hawthorne varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a general 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) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.00 | $880.00 | $3,813.33 | $45,760.00 |
Do Barbacks in Hawthorne Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips in addition to their base salary. Tips can range quite a bit depending on the establishment, but it is common for Barbacks to make an extra $5-$10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their total income.
Barback Salary in Hawthorne vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.80 per hour, translating to about $30,784 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Hawthorne earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $17.00 and an annual salary of $35,360.00.
This difference can be attributed to the higher cost of living and robust hospitality industry in the Hawthorne area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hawthorne for Barbacks
Nearby areas for Barbacks offer slight variations in pay:
- Downtown Hawthorne: $18.50 per hour
- Holly Park: $19.00 per hour
These neighborhoods may provide better compensation compared to other parts of Hawthorne, reflecting demand and types of establishments.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Hawthorne?
Experience and Skills: Barbacks with more experience and strong bartending support skills tend to earn higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, lounges, and busy nightclubs typically pay more compared to smaller, casual venues.
Work Hours and Shifts: Late night and weekend shifts may offer higher pay or additional tip opportunities.
Certifications: Holding certifications related to alcohol service can positively affect salary potential.
Local Labor Demand: The tight labor market for skilled hospitality staff in Hawthorne can drive wages upward.
How To Become a Barback in Hawthorne
To pursue a career as a Barback in Hawthorne, consider the following steps:
- Gain basic experience in hospitality or food service to build familiarity with bar operations.
- Complete specialized training such as the Bartending School of Los Angeles which provides courses tailored for Barbacks and Bartenders.
- Enroll in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College for comprehensive culinary and bar operation skills.
- Obtain mandatory alcohol service certifications such as California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification and ServSafe Alcohol Certification, which ensure responsible alcohol handling.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Hawthorne
Some of the main employers that frequently hire Barbacks in Hawthorne include:
- Yard House
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- BJ's Restaurant & Brewhouse
Establishments That Barbacks in Hawthorne Work At
Barbacks typically find employment across various types of establishments, such as:
- Casual Bars and Lounges: These venues offer a steady flow of customers and often provide tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants with Bars: May offer moderate pay with less tip income.
- Nightclubs and High-Volume Bars: Usually pay higher wages and tips due to the fast pace and customer volume.
The characteristics of an establishment such as size, clientele, and volume can significantly affect salary and tip earnings for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hawthorne for Barbacks
If you are interested in similar positions within hospitality, consider these related careers which share some overlapping skills and responsibilities:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista roles, all of which involve interaction with beverage service and hospitality operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Hawthorne
Barbacks in Hawthorne should be familiar with both California labor laws and federal regulations to ensure proper employment conditions and legal compliance.
- For state labor laws and regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources on employment services and tax information.
- Federal labor laws can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.