Barback Salary in Jersey City, NJ
Barbacks in Jersey City, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.46 per hour, which translates to about $738.40 per week, $3,199.73 per month, and $38,396.80 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Jersey City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the hospitality and nightlife industry in this area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Jersey City, NJ?
The salary of a Barback in Jersey City can fluctuate based on experience and employer type. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Barbacks in Jersey City Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks typically earn additional income through tips. While tips can vary, a Barback in Jersey City may earn approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall earnings on busy nights.
Barback Salary in Jersey City vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average hourly wage of around $15.75 per hour, with an annual salary of about $32,760.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Jersey City earn slightly more, at $18.46 per hour and $38,396.80 annually, reflecting the city's higher cost of living and vibrant nightlife industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jersey City for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Barbacks, with some locations paying more based on local demand and establishment types:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- Waterfront: $20.00 per hour
Barbacks working in Waterfront enjoy the highest hourly rates among the nearby areas, which may be due to a higher concentration of upscale bars and restaurants.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Jersey City?
Several factors affect the earning potential of a Barback in Jersey City including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks who are efficient, knowledgeable about bar operations, and skilled at multitasking tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, nightclubs, and busy restaurants often pay more due to higher demand and more extensive responsibilities.
- Location Within the City: Working in high-traffic nightlife spots like Waterfront or Downtown generally leads to higher pay and tips.
- Shift Timings: Late-night or weekend shifts might offer increased hourly pay or better tipping opportunities.
- Certification and Training: Some employers value formal training or certifications, which can improve salary prospects.
How To Become a Barback in Jersey City
To pursue a career as a Barback in Jersey City, consider the following steps:
- Complete a Barback Training Program at New Jersey Bartending School which provides comprehensive skills including bar setup and bartender support.
- Obtain Hospitality Management Certificate at Hudson County Community College to gain foundational knowledge of bar operations and customer service.
- Acquire a Food Handler's Permit as required in New Jersey to safely handle food and beverages.
- Secure an Alcohol Beverage Control (ABC) License if your role involves serving alcoholic drinks, this license is mandatory.
- Gain hands-on experience by working in entry-level bar or restaurant roles to understand workflow and expectations.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Jersey City
Several notable establishments in Jersey City actively hire Barbacks, including:
- The Ashford
- Six26
- PB&J Hospitality Group
Establishments That Barbacks in Jersey City Work At
Barbacks typically find employment across a variety of hospitality venues such as:
- Casual Restaurants: These venues often provide steady hours but generally offer moderate pay.
- Nightclubs and Bars: These establishments usually offer higher hourly wages and tip potential but may require working late hours.
- Fast Casual and Event Venues: Work environments can be dynamic with varying pay scales depending on the volume of guests.
The type of establishment significantly impacts a Barback’s earnings and work environment, with more upscale or busy bars often offering the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jersey City for Barbacks
If you are interested in roles similar to Barback, consider expanding your skills into related positions.
The related jobs include Bartender, Barback, and Barista, each offering different responsibilities and salary ranges within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Jersey City
Barbacks working in Jersey City should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax obligations to protect their rights and understand their pay structure.
- Visit the Official website of the State of New Jersey for detailed information about state labor regulations, minimum wage policies, and employment resources.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official website for federal labor standards and workplace rights.