Barback Salary in Kansas City, KS
Barbacks in Kansas City, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $7.79 per hour, which translates to about $311.60 per week, $1,350.27 per month, and $16,203.20 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Kansas City is growing positively by about 2% per year, signaling steady job opportunities and an expanding hospitality sector in the area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Kansas City, KS?
The salary of a Barback in Kansas City can vary depending on experience and employer type. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,253.33 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $11.70 | $468.00 | $2,030.00 | $24,336.00 |
Do Barbacks in Kansas City Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. While tips vary by venue and shift, Barbacks can often make an extra few dollars per hour in tips, boosting their overall earnings noticeably.
Barback Salary in Kansas City vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn about $12.00 per hour, which equates to roughly $24,960 per year.
Compared to this, Barbacks in Kansas City earn less hourly and annually, reflecting local market wage differences and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kansas City for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Barbacks:
- Downtown Kansas City: $9.50 per hour
- Westport: $10.00 per hour
Barbacks in Westport enjoy some of the highest wages locally, making it a desirable area for work within the city limits.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Kansas City?
Several factors influence how much a Barback can earn:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks who handle busy shifts or assist with additional duties often earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, clubs, and casinos tend to pay more than casual restaurants or smaller bars.
- Tip Earnings: Venues with higher customer volume or generous tipping cultures increase total compensation significantly.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with premium pay due to higher demand.
How To Become a Barback in Kansas City
Launching a career as a Barback involves key steps and some relevant certifications:
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions often require no formal education but benefit from some hospitality or bar experience.
- Attend Culinary or Bartending Courses: Programs like the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program or specialized training at Kansas City Bartending School can prepare candidates with essential bar knowledge and skills.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Securing a Kansas Food Handler's Permit and Alcohol Server Training Certification ensures compliance with state regulations and boosts employability.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Successful Barbacks must maintain a clean and efficient bar area while cooperating with bartenders and servers.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Kansas City
Some of the prominent employers looking for Barbacks in the Kansas City area include:
- Hollywood Casino
- Dave & Buster's
- Yard House
Establishments That Barbacks in Kansas City Work At
Barbacks can be found working in a variety of settings such as casual bars, fast casual restaurants, nightclubs, casinos, and fine dining establishments.
The type of establishment has a direct impact on wages; upscale venues and casinos often offer higher hourly rates and better tip opportunities compared to casual spots.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kansas City for Barbacks
Those interested in Barback roles may also consider related hospitality positions with similar skills and career trajectories.
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista positions, offering alternative or progressive career paths within the bar and restaurant industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Kansas City
Barbacks should familiarize themselves with labor regulations and tax responsibilities that affect their employment.
- Information on Kansas state labor laws can be found on the Kansas Department of Labor official website.
- Federal labor laws and workers’ rights details are available at the U.S. Department of Labor website.