Barback in Rockford, IL
Barbacks in Rockford, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $11.42 per hour, which translates to about $456.80 per week, $1,979.47 per month, and $23,753.60 per year.
The job market for Barbacks in Rockford is looking positive with a 2% growth rate per year, indicating a steady demand in the hospitality and nightlife sectors.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Rockford, IL?
The salary of a Barback in Rockford varies by experience, workplace, and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings based on typical experience stages.
| 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) | $11.42 | $456.80 | $1,979.47 | $23,753.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
Do Barbacks in Rockford Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. It's common for Barbacks to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and shift. This can be a significant boost to their overall income.
Barback Salary in Rockford vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $12.00 per hour or roughly $24,960 per year.
Comparing this with Rockford, IL, Barbacks earn slightly less at $11.42 per hour and $23,753.60 annually. This difference reflects local cost of living and demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rockford for Barbacks
Looking at areas close to Rockford, Barback salaries can vary moderately:
- Downtown Rockford: $12.00 per hour
- East Rockford: $11.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Rockford tends to offer slightly higher pay compared to other nearby areas.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Rockford?
Several factors can impact how much a Barback earns in Rockford, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Barbacks with more experience or skills such as efficient bar setup and cleaning commands higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars or popular nightclubs often pay more than casual or low-volume venues.
- Shift Timing: Late night or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials that increase pay.
- Tips and Gratuities: Busy venues with generous customers can significantly boost earnings beyond base pay.
How To Become a Barback in Rockford
Becoming a successful Barback in Rockford involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Knowledge: Enroll in the Rock Valley College Hospitality Management Program to learn foundational food and beverage service skills.
- Obtain Bartending Skills: Attending the Illinois Bartending School can help Barbacks advance by understanding bar operations and gaining practical techniques.
- Get Certified: The Illinois BASSET Certification is mandatory for anyone handling alcohol in the state to ensure responsible beverage service.
- Food Safety Compliance: The Food Handler Certification is required for those managing food and drinks, assuring public health standards are met.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Rockford
Some of the main employers seeking Barbacks in Rockford include:
- Pella Signature
- Local Rockford Bars
- Rockford Country Club
Establishments That Barbacks in Rockford Work At
Barbacks work in various establishments, such as:
- Casual Bars: These often have steady traffic and moderate pay rates.
- Nightclubs: Typically provide higher tips and possibly higher base wages due to busy, late hours.
- Country Clubs: May offer better overall compensation with more benefits, reflecting a more upscale experience.
- Fast Casual Restaurants with Bar Sections: Earnings might be lower but with more regular hours.
The type of venue directly influences a Barback’s salary, with more upscale or high-volume establishments generally paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rockford for Barbacks
Those interested in roles similar to Barback may consider opportunities in related hospitality positions such as:
This includes Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter positions, all of which share related work environments and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Rockford
Barbacks need to be familiar with labor regulations and tax requirements at both the federal and state levels.
- For general federal labor laws and regulations, consult the Federal Department of Labor website.
- Illinois specific labor laws and employment information can be found at the Illinois Department of Employment Security.