Barback Salary in Hilo, HI
Barbacks in Hilo, HI, in 2026, earn approximately $12.26 per hour, which translates to about $490.40 per week, $2,125.07 per month, and $25,500.80 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Hilo is growing significantly at about 27% per year, indicating strong employment opportunities and a positive outlook for those entering this role.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Hilo, HI?
The salary of a Barback in Hilo can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is an overview 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) | $12.26 | $490.40 | $2,125.07 | $25,500.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,516.67 | $30,160.00 |
Do Barbacks in Hilo Earn Tips?
Barbacks often receive tips as part of their income, mostly shared from bartenders. They can earn an estimated $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Hilo vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average hourly wage of about $14.82 and approximately $30,825.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Hilo earn slightly less, with about $12.26 per hour and $25,500.80 annually. This difference can be influenced by local factors such as cost of living and demand in the hospitality sector.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hilo for Barbacks
In areas near Hilo, Barbacks can find slightly higher wages:
- Downtown Hilo: $13.50 per hour
- Bayfront: $14.00 per hour
These locations offer better pay due to their busier nightlife and more upscale establishments, which often provide higher wages and greater tips.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Hilo?
Several factors play a role in determining the salary level of a Barback in Hilo:
- Experience and Skills: Barbacks with more experience and knowledge of bar operations can command higher wages.
- Establishment Type: Working in high-end bars, hotels, or busy nightclubs usually leads to better pay and tips compared to casual or smaller venues.
- Shift Timing: Night shifts or weekend shifts may offer extra compensation.
- Local Economic Conditions: The demand for hospitality workers and cost of living in Hilo impact wages directly.
How To Become a Barback in Hilo
Those interested in becoming a Barback in Hilo can prepare themselves through several avenues:
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs like the Hawaii Community College Culinary Arts Program provide training in bar operations and hospitality skills.
- Study Hospitality Management: The University of Hawaii at Hilo Hospitality and Tourism Program offers education that benefits aspiring Barbacks and other hospitality roles.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: Certifications such as the Hawaii Alcohol Server Certification and the Food Handler's Permit are often required for legal and safety standards in bar work.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in bars or restaurants provide valuable hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Hilo
Some notable employers frequently hiring Barbacks in Hilo include:
- Hilo Hawaiian Hotel
- Grand Naniloa Hotel
- Hilo Bay Cafe
Establishments That Barbacks in Hilo Work At
Barbacks typically find employment in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Bars: Often provide a steady flow of customers and tips, usually with moderate hourly wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While focused on quick service, bars attached to these venues offer consistent barback positions but with lower tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: These locations often pay higher wages and offer better benefits due to their upscale clientele.
- Nightclubs and Event Venues: High-energy environments with potentially high tips and overtime opportunities.
The type of establishment affects the salary through differences in hourly pay, tip opportunities, and shift schedules.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hilo for Barbacks
If you are interested in hospitality careers similar to Barback, you might consider these roles:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista positions, all of which share similar work environments and skill requirements.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Hilo
Barbacks in Hilo should familiarize themselves with state and federal labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and fair treatment.
- For information on local labor laws, visit the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
- To understand federal tax obligations and resources, see the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) official website.