Barback Salary in Oak Park, IL
Barbacks in Oak Park, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $12.26 per hour, which translates to about $490.40 per week, $2,125.07 per month, and $25,500.80 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Oak Park is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding opportunity for those interested in working behind the bar in this area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Oak Park, IL?
The salary of a Barback in Oak Park varies by experience and employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings for different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.58 | $423.20 | $1,838.53 | $22,006.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $12.26 | $490.40 | $2,109.73 | $25,500.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.65 | $546.00 | $2,352.00 | $28,392.00 |
Do Barbacks in Oak Park Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically do earn tips in addition to their wages. Tips can amount to an extra $10 per hour during busy shifts, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Oak Park vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.82 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,825.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Oak Park earn slightly less at $12.26 per hour and $25,500.80 annually. This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and employer types.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oak Park for Barbacks
Salary variations exist within nearby neighborhoods:
- Downtown Oak Park: $13.50 per hour
- South Oak Park: $12.80 per hour
Barbacks working in Downtown Oak Park generally earn higher pay compared to South Oak Park, reflecting differences in establishments and local economy.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Oak Park?
Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with a thorough understanding of bar operations and efficient service tend to command higher wages.
Type of Establishment: Working at upscale bars, restaurants, or hotels usually comes with better pay compared to casual lounges or fast-service bars.
Shift and Hours: Night, weekend, and holiday shifts might include shift differentials that increase earnings.
Tips and Service Quality: Barbacks who provide excellent customer service often earn more in tips.
Certifications and Training: Possessing relevant certifications, such as beverage safety or responsible alcohol service training, can boost employability and salary.
How To Become a Barback in Oak Park
Starting a career as a Barback in Oak Park can involve several steps to build relevant skills and qualifications.
- Barback Training Program at Chicago Bartending School: This comprehensive program teaches essential barback skills including stock management and customer service.
- Hospitality Management Certificate at Triton College: Focusing on hospitality fundamentals, this certificate covers bar operations that benefit aspiring Barbacks.
- BASSET Certification: Required in Illinois, this certification ensures responsible beverage alcohol service practices.
- Food Handler Certification: Demonstrates knowledge of safe food handling, often beneficial for roles involving food and beverage service.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Oak Park
Several well-known establishments are prominent employers of Barbacks in Oak Park:
- O'Sullivan's Public House
- Paisans Pizzeria
- The Ritz-Carlton Chicago
Establishments That Barbacks in Oak Park Work At
Barbacks in Oak Park typically find work in a range of hospitality environments:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These establishments offer steady work though often with more modest pay.
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: Barbacks here generally earn higher wages and can gain valuable experience.
- Event Venues and Nightclubs: Pay and tips can be higher, especially during peak hours or large events.
The type of venue strongly influences compensation, with more prestigious or busy places offering greater earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oak Park for Barbacks
If you're exploring related careers, here are a few similar roles in Oak Park:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Bar Manager positions, which involve related skills and offer varied salary ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Oak Park
Barbacks should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations that affect employment in Oak Park.
- For federal regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- State-specific employment information is available through the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- Local labor regulations and resources can be found on the Village of Oak Park official website.