Barback Salary in Salinas, CA
Barbacks in Salinas, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Salinas is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Salinas, CA?
The salary of a Barback in Salinas varies depending on experience, but here is a general overview of earnings at different 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) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
Do Barbacks in Salinas Earn Tips?
Barbacks can earn additional income through tips, often averaging an extra $5 to $10 per hour in busy establishments. This can significantly boost their overall earnings, especially during high-traffic shifts.
Barback Salary in Salinas vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, equating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Salinas earn slightly more hourly, $15.00 per hour, and have a higher annual salary of around $31,200. This reflects the local market conditions and the region’s hospitality demands.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salinas for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer varying salaries for Barbacks:
- Downtown Salinas: $16.00 per hour
- South Salinas: $15.50 per hour
Barbacks working in Downtown Salinas tend to earn the highest wages among the nearby locations, benefiting from a busier nightlife and more upscale venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Salinas?
Several factors affect how much a Barback can earn in Salinas:
- Experience: More experienced Barbacks tend to earn higher wages due to their efficiency and knowledge of bar operations.
- Skills: Skills such as quick restocking, excellent communication, and multitasking can boost earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and clubs generally pay more than casual or fast-paced venues.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts might offer higher pay or better tipping opportunities.
- Local Demand: The growing nightlife and tourism industry in Salinas contribute to higher wages and job openings.
How To Become a Barback in Salinas
Becoming a Barback in Salinas involves several steps to increase your employability and career prospects:
- Obtain Basic Certifications: Getting a California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification is mandatory for alcohol servers and bar staff. A Food Handler Card is also beneficial.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or internships at bars or restaurants can help build the necessary skills.
- Consider Formal Education: Programs like the Monterey Peninsula College Culinary Arts Program and Hartnell College Hospitality Management Program offer education relevant to bar operations and hospitality management.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong communication, stamina, and teamwork are essential for success.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Salinas
Some of the top employers in Salinas seeking skilled Barbacks include:
- Alvarado Street Brewery
- Monterey Coast Brewing
- Farmers Union Pour House
Establishments That Barbacks in Salinas Work At
Barbacks in Salinas typically find employment in various settings:
- Casual Bars: These offer consistent shifts but usually lower wages.
- Fast Casual and Breweries: Often higher volume, which can translate to more tips and slightly better pay.
- Nightclubs and Upscale Venues: Tend to offer the highest pay and tipping opportunities due to busier crowds and premium pricing.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary and tipping potential, with upscale bars often providing the most lucrative positions.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salinas for Barbacks
If you’re interested in similar hospitality roles to Barback, consider the following career options:
These roles include Bartender, Barista, and Barback itself—each with overlapping skills but varying responsibilities and compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Salinas
Barbacks should be familiar with state and local labor laws and regulations to ensure fair work conditions and compliance:
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations for detailed labor laws and workers' rights.
- Consult the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control for regulations on alcohol service licensing and compliance.
- Visit the City of Salinas Official Website for local ordinances affecting hospitality businesses.