Barback Salary in Honolulu, HI
Barbacks in Honolulu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $14.00 per hour, which translates to about $560.00 per week, $2,426.67 per month, and $29,120.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Honolulu is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting promising employment opportunities in the hospitality industry within this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Honolulu, HI?
The salary of a Barback in Honolulu can vary based on experience and workplace; here’s a breakdown of pay across different 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) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
Do Barbacks in Honolulu Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks often earn additional income through tips. Depending on the establishment, they can earn an estimated $5 to $15 extra per hour in tips, boosting their overall earnings substantially.
Barback Salary in Honolulu vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $13.90 per hour, translating to about $28,912 per year.
In comparison, Barbacks in Honolulu earn slightly more at about $14.00 per hour and $29,120 annually.
This modest increase is influenced by the higher cost of living and the strong hospitality industry in Honolulu.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Honolulu for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Barbacks:
- Waikiki: $15.00 per hour
- Downtown Honolulu: $14.50 per hour
Waikiki leads with higher wages likely due to its bustling tourist activity and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Honolulu?
Experience and skills are key: seasoned Barbacks with efficient restocking and speed skills earn more.
The type of establishment matters; high-end bars and luxury hotels pay more than casual venues.
Shift times can affect pay; late-night shifts often include shift differentials.
Certification and training in areas such as alcohol safety can also boost salary prospects.
How To Become a Barback in Honolulu
Becoming a Barback in Honolulu involves:
- Completing training programs such as those at Kapiolani Community College Culinary Arts Program, which covers bar and beverage management skills.
- Attending practical courses at the Bartending Academy of Hawaii, focusing on bartender support roles.
- Obtaining mandatory certifications like the Hawaii Alcohol Server Certification.
- Gaining experience through entry-level hospitality jobs and learning bar operations on the job.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Honolulu
Several well-known companies actively recruit Barbacks in Honolulu including:
- Yard House
- Dave & Buster's
- Marriott International
Establishments That Barbacks in Honolulu Work At
Barbacks commonly work in:
- Casual bars and nightclubs, where volume and pace can influence cueing tips and pay.
- Fast casual venues with busy service but lower tip volumes.
- Upscale hotels and resorts, usually paying better and tipping more generously.
- Event and catering companies, where workload varies but can offer higher pay for large events.
The type and prestige of the establishment play a significant role in salary and tip potential for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Honolulu for Barbacks
Barbacks can explore several similar careers within hospitality that share skills and responsibilities.
These include positions like Bartender, Barback, and Barista, which involve direct or indirect interaction with the bar area and customers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Honolulu
Barbacks should stay informed about the labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Hawaii.
- Visit the State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website for state-specific labor guidelines and worker protections.
- For federal labor standards and regulations, check the U.S. Department of Labor official website.