Barback Salary in Huntington, WV
Barbacks in Huntington, WV, in 2025, earn approximately $10.39 per hour, which translates to about $415.60 per week, $1,800.93 per month, and $21,611.20 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Huntington is growing steadily at about 9% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and increased need for support staff in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Huntington, WV?
The salary of a Barback in Huntington varies depending on experience, skill level, and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.58 | $383.20 | $1,658.93 | $19,902.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $10.39 | $415.60 | $1,800.93 | $21,611.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $11.20 | $448.00 | $1,930.67 | $23,296.00 |
Do Barbacks in Huntington Earn Tips?
Barbacks generally earn tips as part of their income, especially when working in busy bars or restaurants. They can often make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which supplements their hourly wage substantially.
Barback Salary in Huntington vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.82 per hour, with annual earnings of about $30,825.60.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Huntington earn less, at about $10.39 per hour and $21,611.20 annually. This difference is common due to local cost of living and market demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Barbacks:
- Downtown Huntington: $10.50 per hour
- Southside: $10.75 per hour
Working in Southside can offer better hourly wages compared to Downtown Huntington, potentially increasing overall earnings.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Huntington?
Several key factors influence a Barback's earnings in Huntington:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks tend to earn higher wages due to their efficiency and reliability.
- Skills: Additional skills such as bartending basics or knowledge of beverage service can boost salary.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, nightclubs, or hotels usually pay more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Work Hours and Shift: Evening or weekend shifts often provide higher pay or additional tips.
- Local Demand and Economy: The overall hospitality market and local economic conditions can impact pay rates.
How To Become a Barback in Huntington
Starting a career as a Barback involves several important steps:
- Obtain Basic Hospitality Knowledge: Enroll in programs like the Mountwest Community & Technical College Culinary Arts Program to learn foundational hospitality skills.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Many Barbacks start as bartenders’ assistants or in entry-level food service roles.
- Complete Required Certifications: Certifications such as the West Virginia Alcohol Server Training and ServSafe Alcohol Certification are important for responsible alcohol service.
- Develop Good Physical Stamina and Customer Service Skills: Barbacks often handle heavy lifting and need to maintain friendly interactions with patrons.
- Seek Opportunities to Advance: Experience can lead to Bartender or Bar Manager positions.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Huntington
Some prominent employers actively hiring Barbacks in Huntington include:
- Marshall University Dining Services
- Pullman Plaza Hotel
- Fat Patty's
Establishments That Barbacks in Huntington Work At
Barbacks typically work in a variety of hospitality venues, including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These venues often offer steady work but may have moderate pay.
- Nightclubs: Generally provide higher pay and more tips due to busy night crowds.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually offer more structured employment with benefits and slightly higher wages.
- Fast Casual and Restaurants: Pay can vary widely depending on the establishment size and clientele.
The type of establishment affects salary potential, with upscale or high-volume venues generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington for Barbacks
If you’re exploring hospitality roles related to Barback, consider these similar career options:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter positions, which involve customer interaction and hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Huntington
Barbacks in Huntington should understand relevant labor laws and tax obligations:
- For information on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- For state-specific labor laws and employment standards, the West Virginia Division of Labor is a valuable resource.