Barback Salary in Riverside, CA
Barbacks in Riverside, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.00 per hour, which translates to about $640.00 per week, $2,773.33 per month, and $33,280.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Riverside is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for support roles in the beverage and hospitality industry in the area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Riverside, CA?
The salary of a Barback in Riverside varies depending on experience and employer type, but here is an overview by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Barbacks in Riverside, CA Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn additional income through tips. Many Barbacks can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift, boosting their overall earnings considerably above their base salary.
Barback Salary in Riverside, CA vs. National Average
Across the United States, Barbacks earn around $15.00 per hour, which equates to approximately $31,200 annually.
Barbacks in Riverside earn slightly more on average, with a typical wage of $16.00 per hour and annual earnings estimated at $33,280.00. This difference may be due to Riverside's local cost of living and demand for hospitality roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Barbacks:
- Downtown Riverside: $16.50 per hour
- La Sierra: $16.00 per hour
These variations illustrate how location within the greater Riverside region can impact salary for Barbacks.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Riverside, CA?
Several key factors affect how much a Barback can earn:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks may command higher hourly wages and better tip opportunities.
- Skills: Efficient multitasking, knowledge of bar operations, and good communication can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and busy nightclubs typically pay more than casual or lower-volume venues.
- Shift Timing: Late-night or weekend shifts often come with higher tip potential.
- Certifications: Holding certifications like Responsible Beverage Service can be advantageous.
How To Become a Barback in Riverside, CA
Entering the Barback profession in Riverside involves a few important steps:
- Gain Basic Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with bar operations and beverage service by enrolling in programs such as Riverside City College Culinary Arts Program, which offers training including bar operations.
- Specialized Training: Attend the Bartending School of Riverside for focused education on bartending and Barback duties.
- Obtain Certifications: Completing the California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification is mandatory for alcohol service roles in California.
- Additional Credentials: Consider the ServSafe Alcohol Certification for nationally recognized responsible alcohol service credentials.
- On-the-Job Experience: Start in entry-level roles in bars to build practical skills and progress.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Riverside, CA
Some prominent employers frequently hiring Barbacks in Riverside include:
- Yard House
- El Torito
- Applebee's
Establishments That Barbacks in Riverside, CA Work At
Barbacks commonly work in a range of hospitality settings:
- Bars and Nightclubs: Often offering the most dynamic work environments and tip opportunities.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate wages and potential for tips depending on establishment size.
- Fast Casual Venues: Usually more structured hours and lower tip income.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may offer better pay and benefits with varied shifts.
The type of establishment significantly influences both base pay and tip earnings, with busier venues generally offering higher overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside, CA for Barbacks
If you are exploring roles similar to Barback, consider these related positions that share skills and work environments:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista roles, which often overlap in responsibilities and career paths within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Riverside, CA
Barbacks should stay informed about labor and tax regulations applicable in California and federally.
- For state-specific labor laws, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For federal tax guidelines, the Internal Revenue Service offers comprehensive resources.