Barback Salary in Saint-Paul, MN
Barbacks in Saint-Paul, MN, in 2026, earn approximately $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $580.00 per week, $2,513.33 per month, and $30,160.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Saint-Paul is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job market expansion for this role within the hospitality and nightlife industries.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Saint-Paul, MN?
Barback salaries in Saint-Paul vary according to experience and employer type. Here is a breakdown across entry, mid, and top levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,513.33 | $30,160.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Saint-Paul Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage, typically receiving around $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly enhance their overall earnings depending on the establishment's busyness and generosity of patrons.
Barback Salary in Saint-Paul vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50 and approximately $30,160 annually.
Barbacks in Saint-Paul align closely with this national average, earning around $14.50 per hour and a similar annual salary, reflecting the competitive hospitality market in this city.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Saint-Paul for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Barbacks:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Lowertown: $16.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods can provide higher wages for Barbacks compared to other parts of the city due to increased demand and possibly upscale venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Saint-Paul?
Several key factors affect how much a Barback can earn in Saint-Paul:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks usually command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end bars, nightclubs, or busy restaurants often offer better pay.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can come with premium pay or increased tips.
- Certification and Training: Knowledge of bar operations and safety through formal training can improve chances of better compensation.
- Local Competition and Demand: Areas with significant nightlife see higher demand and higher wages.
How To Become a Barback in Saint-Paul
To launch a career as a Barback in Saint-Paul, consider the following steps:
- Gain Relevant Training: Programs like the Saint Paul College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training in culinary and bar operations, building solid skills for the position.
- Enroll in Specialized Courses: Options such as Minnesota School of Bartending offer focused instruction covering bartending and barback duties.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Certifications such as Alcohol Server Certification ensure compliance with Minnesota's alcohol service laws.
- Secure Food Safety Credentials: The Food Handler's Permit confirms understanding of food safety, often required in hospitality roles.
- Build Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in busy bars or restaurants help gain practical knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Saint-Paul
Prominent establishments in Saint-Paul actively seeking Barbacks include:
- Omni Hotels & Resorts
- Muddy Cow
- Allianz Field
Establishments That Barbacks in Saint-Paul Work At
Barbacks typically find employment across various settings:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: Provide steady work with moderate wages and often tips.
- Nightclubs and Bars: Tend to offer higher wages and larger tip pools.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide more structured work environments with benefits.
- Event Venues and Stadiums: Large-scale operations can offer greater earning potential during events.
The type of establishment directly influences salary, with upscale venues and high-traffic bars generally paying more and offering better tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Saint-Paul for Barbacks
For those interested in related roles within hospitality, here are a few careers similar to Barback:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista positions, offering various paths within the beverage and hospitality service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Saint-Paul
Barbacks should be familiar with key labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Minnesota:
- Consult the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry - State labor laws and regulations for employment standards and workers' rights.
- Refer to the Internal Revenue Service - Federal tax information and resources for guidance on taxation and filing.
