Barback Salary in Pueblo, CO
Barbacks in Pueblo, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Pueblo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in this supportive hospitality role.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Pueblo, CO?
The earnings of a Barback in Pueblo vary widely depending on experience and skill level, but here is an overview based on different experience tiers.
| 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Pueblo Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks often earn tips in addition to their base salary. It is common for Barbacks to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and shift, which can significantly boost their daily income.
Barback Salary in Pueblo vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50 and a yearly salary around $30,160.
Compared to this, Barbacks in Pueblo earn slightly less on average, at $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually, reflecting local wage standards and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pueblo for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Barbacks:
- Downtown Pueblo: $15.50 per hour
- Historic Arkansas Riverwalk: $17.60 per hour
Barbacks working closer to the Historic Arkansas Riverwalk neighborhood generally command a higher hourly wage, likely due to the area's demand and upscale venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Pueblo?
Several important factors affect how much a Barback can earn in Pueblo:
- Experience and Skill Level: More skilled and experienced Barbacks tend to negotiate higher wages and receive bigger tips.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, nightclubs, or busy venues often pay more compared to casual or smaller operations.
- Shift Timings: Evening and weekend shifts can offer increased pay or tip potential.
- Local Demand: Areas with a strong nightlife culture usually provide more opportunities for higher earnings.
- Certifications: Having relevant certifications, such as responsible alcohol service, can boost employability and sometimes salary.
How To Become a Barback in Pueblo
To start a career as a Barback in Pueblo, consider the following steps:
- Gaining Basic Hospitality Experience: Prior work in restaurants or bars, even in entry-level roles, can be valuable.
- Enroll in Relevant Training: Programs like the Pueblo Community College Culinary Arts Program offer foundational courses in beverage management beneficial for Barbacks.
- Attend Bartending Schools: The Southern Colorado Bartending School provides specialized training in bartending and barback responsibilities, helping enhance skills and job prospects.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications such as TIPS Certification (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) and ServSafe Alcohol Certification show a commitment to responsible alcohol service and can increase employability.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Pueblo
Popular employers in Pueblo actively hiring Barbacks include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Barbacks in Pueblo Work At
Barbacks typically find work in a variety of hospitality establishments such as:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These venues often employ Barbacks to support bartenders and keep the bar area stocked and clean.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While mainly focused on food service, some fast casual spots with a bar component hire Barbacks.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: These locations may offer higher wages and tip potential due to busier and extended operating hours.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Larger settings that serve alcohol often employ Barbacks as part of their hospitality teams.
The type and prestige of the establishment can have a notable impact on the salary and tips received by Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pueblo for Barbacks
If you're interested in roles similar to Barback, here are a few related positions in hospitality you may consider:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter roles, which share similar environments and skills with the Barback position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Pueblo
Barbacks should stay informed about local and federal labor regulations to understand their rights and tax obligations.
- Visit the State of Colorado's official website for details on labor laws and worker protections.
- The U.S. Department of Labor is a valuable resource for federal labor standards and employment guidelines.