Barback Salary in Little Rock, AR
Barbacks in Little Rock, AR, in 2025, earn approximately $10.75 per hour, which translates to about $430.00 per week, $1,863.33 per month, and $22,360.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Little Rock is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend in the hospitality industry and an increasing need for support staff in bars and restaurants.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Little Rock, AR?
The salary of a Barback in Little Rock varies depending on experience and employer, but the following breakdown shows typical earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.50 | $380.00 | $1,646.67 | $19,760.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.50 | $460.00 | $1,983.33 | $23,920.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
Do Barbacks in Little Rock Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in Little Rock typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. On average, they can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Little Rock, AR vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $15.24 per hour, translating to about $31,699.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Little Rock earn less hourly at about $10.75 per hour and $22,360.00 annually. This difference reflects local economic factors and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Little Rock for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer slightly better pay for Barbacks:
- Downtown: $12.50 per hour
- River Market District: $13.00 per hour
Working in these districts provides Barbacks with higher earnings potential due to the concentration of busy bars and entertainment venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Little Rock?
Several factors affect how much a Barback earns in Little Rock:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with strong knowledge of bar operations and faster service skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, clubs, and busy restaurants tend to pay better than casual or fast casual venues.
- Shift Times: Night shifts or weekend work may come with additional pay or higher tips.
- Location: Working in central commercial areas like Downtown or the River Market District can provide more opportunities for tips and higher base pay.
- Employer Size and Reputation: Larger hospitality groups or popular venues might offer better compensation packages.
How To Become a Barback in Little Rock
If you are looking to become a Barback in Little Rock, here are some steps you can take to get started and grow in this role:
- Gain Relevant Training: Enroll in programs such as the Pulaski Technical College Culinary Arts Program, which includes beverage management training beneficial for Barbacks.
- Consider Hospitality Education: The University of Arkansas at Little Rock Hospitality Management Program offers coursework that covers restaurant and bar operations, giving an edge in job readiness.
- Obtain Certifications: Securing the Arkansas Alcohol Beverage Control Permit is essential for handling alcoholic beverages legally.
- Earn Responsible Service Credentials: The ServSafe Alcohol Certification is often required or preferred by employers to ensure knowledge of responsible alcohol service.
- Develop Strong Work Ethic: Barback roles are physically demanding and fast paced, so reliability and stamina are crucial.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Little Rock
The following companies are some of the top employers looking for skilled Barbacks in Little Rock:
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Main Event Entertainment
- Mr Brews Taphouse
Establishments That Barbacks in Little Rock Work At
Barbacks typically work in a variety of hospitality venues including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Usually offer steady work but may offer lower base pay and tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Can provide opportunities for barback support in a quicker-paced environment, often with lower tips.
- Nightclubs and Entertainment Venues: Tend to pay higher wages and more tips due to busy, high-volume service.
- Fine Dining Restaurants with Bars: Often pay more and offer a better tipped income potential.
The type of establishment greatly influences earnings, with busier and upscale venues providing the best opportunities for higher salary and gratuities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Little Rock for Barbacks
If you are interested in roles similar to Barback, here are a few related positions you might consider that offer pathways for career growth:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista roles, which involve working within the bar and beverage service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Little Rock
Barbacks should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- Information about federal labor regulations can be accessed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Arkansas-specific labor laws and licensing information, check the Arkansas state government website.