Barback Salary in New Bedford, MA
Barbacks in New Bedford, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $12.38 per hour, which translates to about $495.20 per week, $2,145.87 per month, and $25,750.40 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in New Bedford is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry within the area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in New Bedford, MA?
The salary of a Barback in New Bedford varies by experience level and employer. Below is a breakdown of the typical earnings at different stages of employment.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.38 | $495.20 | $2,145.87 | $25,750.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,500.00 | $30,160.00 |
Do Barbacks in New Bedford Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically do earn tips as part of their compensation, often receiving an extra $3 to $6 per hour in tips depending on the venue and shift. This tips income can significantly boost overall earnings and is customary in many bars and restaurants where Barbacks assist Bartenders and serve customers.
Barback Salary in New Bedford vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equals roughly $30,160 per year.
In New Bedford, the average Barback earns about $12.38 per hour and $25,750.40 annually, which is below the national average. This difference can be attributed to cost of living variations and the size of the local hospitality market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near New Bedford for Barbacks
Nearby neighborhoods offer slightly different pay scales for Barbacks, such as:
- Downtown: $13.50 per hour
- Waterfront: $14.00 per hour
Working in the Waterfront area typically yields higher wages, reflecting the upscale venues and tourist traffic prevalent there.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in New Bedford?
Several factors affect how much a Barback can earn in New Bedford, including:
- Experience and Skills: Barbacks with more experience and stronger skills in bar maintenance, stocking, and customer service typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Employment at upscale bars, hotels, or busy nightlife venues usually offers higher pay and more tips compared to smaller local pubs.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can result in higher earnings due to increased customer volume and tips.
- Local Demand: Areas with vibrant hospitality sectors see more competition for qualified Barbacks, raising wages.
How To Become a Barback in New Bedford
Starting a career as a Barback in New Bedford involves a combination of experience, education, and certifications:
- Gain Hospitality Experience: Entry-level positions in hospitality or food service provide a foundation for working as a Barback.
- Complete Relevant Education: Consider programs like the Bristol Community College Culinary Arts Program or the UMass Dartmouth Hospitality Management Program to learn foundational skills related to food, beverages, and service management.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications such as TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) or ServSafe Alcohol Certification teach responsible alcohol handling and are often required by employers in Massachusetts.
- Develop Physical Stamina and Teamwork Skills: Barbacks often work long hours stocking and cleaning, so physical fitness and collaboration with bartenders are essential.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in New Bedford
Some of the well-known employers in New Bedford actively hiring Barbacks include:
- Ninety Nine Restaurant & Pub
- Applebee's
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Barbacks in New Bedford Work At
Barbacks in New Bedford typically find work in a range of hospitality venues, including:
- Casual Restaurants: These establishments offer steady employment, though they may pay moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Venues: Fast-paced environments can provide frequent work and tips, but lower base pay.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Higher tipping potential exists here with increased wages, especially in busy or upscale locations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues often offer better salaries and benefits.
The type of establishment impacts both base pay and tipping opportunities, influencing total earnings for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in New Bedford for Barbacks
If you are considering related roles within hospitality, several similar jobs involve related skills and responsibilities.
Positions such as Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter share skills with Barbacks and may offer pathways for career growth in hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in New Bedford
Barbacks should stay informed about relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- The Official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts provides valuable information on state labor laws, including wage rules and employment standards.
- For additional resources on federal labor laws and workplace regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.