Barback Salary in Lafayette, LA
Barbacks in Lafayette, LA, in 2026, earn approximately $12.50 per hour, which translates to about $500.00 per week, $2,166.67 per month, and $26,000.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Lafayette is growing steadily at about 4% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the hospitality and bar industry in this city.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Lafayette, LA?
The salary of a Barback in Lafayette varies depending on experience and employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
Do Barbacks in Lafayette Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically earn tips, which can significantly supplement their wages. On average, Barbacks in Lafayette might earn an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and shift.
Barback Salary in Lafayette vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $13.00 per hour, with an annual salary near $27,040.00.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Lafayette earn slightly less at $12.50 per hour and $26,000.00 per year. This difference partly reflects local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lafayette for Barbacks
Barbacks working in nearby areas can expect slightly varying pay:
- Downtown: $13.50 per hour
- River Ranch: $14.00 per hour
These areas typically offer better compensation due to higher-end bars or restaurants attracting more affluent clientele.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Lafayette?
Several key factors influence a Barback’s salary in Lafayette:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks tend to earn more as they can support bartenders more effectively and manage bar operations.
- Skills: Proficiency in multitasking, speed, and knowledge of bar supplies improves value.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale bars, nightclubs, or premium restaurants usually offers higher pay compared to casual bars or pubs.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might come with premium pay or better tips.
- Local Demand: Growing nightlife scenes increase demand and can raise salaries.
How To Become a Barback in Lafayette
Launching a career as a Barback in Lafayette can be achieved by following these steps:
- Get Basic Hospitality Training: Enroll in programs like the Lafayette Hospitality Training Center that offer barback training and customer service skills.
- Acquire Responsible Vendor Training: This mandatory Louisiana training teaches alcohol service laws and responsible serving practices.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: Certification for safe food and beverage handling is generally required in Louisiana.
- Gain Experience: Starting as a barback assistant or in related entry-level positions can help you learn the ropes quickly.
- Consider Culinary Training: Institutes like Cajun Culinary Institute provide useful knowledge of Cajun and Creole cuisine, improving your understanding of local beverage culture.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Lafayette
Some prominent employers in Lafayette actively hiring Barbacks include:
- Blue Dog Café
- The Grouse Room
- Social Southern Table & Bar
Establishments That Barbacks in Lafayette Work At
Barbacks typically work across a variety of establishments:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These often offer steady but moderate salaries and tips.
- Fast Casual and Restaurants: May pay moderate wages, with tips varying by customer volume.
- Nightclubs and Upscale Bars: Typically pay higher wages and allow for more in tips, attracting skilled Barbacks.
The type of establishment significantly influences the salary and the amount of tips a Barback can earn.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lafayette for Barbacks
If you're considering roles similar to Barback, here are a few related careers worth exploring:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Bar Manager positions, which involve overlapping skills and career progression opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Lafayette
Barbacks should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- For Louisiana-specific labor laws and employment services, visit the Louisiana Workforce Commission's official site.
- For federal labor regulations, you can consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.