Barback Salary in Hoboken, NJ
Barbacks in Hoboken, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Hoboken is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the hospitality and nightlife industry in the area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Hoboken, NJ?
The salary of a Barback in Hoboken can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, 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) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.33 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Hoboken Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in Hoboken often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. Tips can vary widely, but they typically can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment’s busyness and policies.
Barback Salary in Hoboken vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.80 per hour, translating to about $30,784 per year.
When compared to the national average, Barbacks in Hoboken earn slightly more at about $15.00 per hour and $31,200 annually.
This can be attributed to the local cost of living and the dynamic hospitality scene in Hoboken.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Hoboken for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer some variation in pay for Barbacks:
- Downtown Hoboken: $15.50 per hour
- Uptown Hoboken: $17.60 per hour
Those working Uptown Hoboken tend to earn higher pay relative to Downtown, reflecting differences in clientele and establishment types.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Hoboken?
A number of factors can impact how much a Barback earns in Hoboken:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with strong knowledge of bar operations and efficiency tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, clubs, or high-volume venues usually pay more compared to smaller or casual bars.
- Tips and Service Quality: Skills in customer service and teamwork can increase tip earnings significantly.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might pay more or have better tipping opportunities.
- Local Market and Cost of Living: Hoboken’s proximity to New York City influences wages and competition in the hospitality job market.
How To Become a Barback in Hoboken
Beginning a career as a Barback in Hoboken often involves the following steps:
- Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like the Hudson County Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational skills including bar operations.
- Specialized Bar Training: The New York Bartending School offers intensive courses that include training relevant to Barbacks.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the TIPS Certification and ServSafe Alcohol Certification can boost employability and ensure compliance with responsible alcohol service regulations.
- Gaining Experience: Entry-level roles often involve working as a bar helper, allowing hands-on learning before advancing.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Hoboken
Some notable employers in Hoboken regularly hiring Barbacks include:
- 8th Street Tavern
- The Madison Bar & Grill
- Pilsener Haus & Biergarten
Establishments That Barbacks in Hoboken Work At
Barbacks are commonly employed in a variety of hospitality venues including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These often offer consistent schedules but moderate pay.
- Nightclubs and Music Venues: Usually provide higher earning potential through tips and busier shifts.
- Restaurants with Full Bars: Barbacks here support bartenders and may receive steady wages and access to tipped income.
- Hotels and Event Spaces: May offer more formal environments and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment influences salary and tip structure, with upscale and busy venues generally providing the best overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Hoboken for Barbacks
If you are interested in roles related to Barback, consider the following similar positions:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista, all of which share skills related to beverage service and hospitality operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Hoboken
Barbacks should be knowledgeable about both federal and state labor laws governing wages, working hours, and taxes.
- On the Federal Department of Labor website, employees can find information on workplace rights and regulations.
- The State of New Jersey's official website provides detailed guidance on state labor laws, minimum wage, and taxation applicable to Hoboken workers.