Barback Salary in Irvine, CA
Barbacks in Irvine, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.63 per hour, which translates to about $625.20 per week, $2,709.20 per month, and $32,510.40 per year.
The job demand for Barbacks in Irvine is expected to grow at about 2% per year, indicating a stable and slightly increasing need for support roles in the hospitality industry in this region.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Irvine, CA?
The salary of a Barback in Irvine varies based on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides insight into typical earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.63 | $625.20 | $2,709.20 | $32,510.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.75 | $750.00 | $3,250.00 | $39,000.00 |
Do Barbacks in Irvine, CA Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips in addition to their base salary depending on the establishment. They can typically make an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, which significantly supplements their income on busy shifts.
Barback Salary in Irvine, CA vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.82 per hour, or roughly $30,825.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Irvine earn slightly more, with an average hourly rate of $15.63 and annual pay of $32,510.40. This reflects the higher cost of living and demand in the Irvine hospitality sector.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Irvine, CA for Barbacks
Nearby areas with higher pay for Barbacks include:
- Downtown Irvine: $16.50 per hour
- Irvine Spectrum Center: $17.00 per hour
These locations tend to have more upscale bars and establishments offering better compensation for Barbacks.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Irvine, CA?
Several key factors influence how much a Barback can earn in Irvine:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with strong knowledge of bar operations and efficient service tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bars, nightclubs, or luxury hotels generally pays more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Tips and Service Quality: Excellent customer service can lead to higher tips, boosting overall earnings significantly.
- Shift Schedules: Working late-night or weekend shifts can sometimes include shift differentials or higher tip potential.
- Local Demand and Economy: Irvine's tourism and hospitality growth influence compensation trends.
How To Become a Barback in Irvine, CA
Starting a career as a Barback in Irvine involves several steps:
- Acquire basic knowledge of bar operations through practical experience or training programs such as those offered by the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program.
- Consider attending specialized courses at schools like the Bartending School of Orange County for skills directly related to bartending and barback duties.
- Obtain mandatory certifications, including the California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification which ensures compliance with responsible alcohol service regulations.
- Consider obtaining the ServSafe Alcohol Certification which is widely recognized and often required by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Irvine, CA
Some of the prominent companies and hospitality groups hiring Barbacks in Irvine include:
- The Irvine Company
- Marriott International
- Hilton Hotels & Resorts
Establishments That Barbacks in Irvine, CA Work At
Barbacks usually work in various hospitality establishments such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Often entry-level venues with moderate pay but opportunities for tips and experience.
- Fast Casual Dining Venues: These may offer consistent hours but generally lower salaries and tips.
- Upscale Bars and Nightclubs: Higher-paid positions with potential for significant tips and demanding responsibilities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Premium venues typically offering better wages and benefits for Barbacks.
The type of establishment greatly impacts the salary and tip potential of a Barback in Irvine.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Irvine, CA for Barbacks
If you are interested in careers similar to Barback, here are a few related roles to consider:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista positions, which offer varied responsibilities and salary ranges in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Irvine, CA
Barbacks should be aware of relevant labor laws and taxation at the state and federal level for proper employment compliance and financial planning.
- Consult the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor regulations including wage and hour laws.
- For employment information and tax services, visit the California Employment Development Department.
- Federal labor laws and resources are available on the U.S. Department of Labor website.