Barback Salary in Santa Clara, CA
Barbacks in Santa Clara, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $20.43 per hour, which translates to about $817.20 per week, $3,541.20 per month, and $42,494.40 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Santa Clara is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in this field within the region.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Santa Clara, CA?
The salary of a Barback in Santa Clara varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.20 | $728.00 | $3,146.67 | $37,792.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.43 | $817.20 | $3,541.20 | $42,494.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Barbacks in Santa Clara Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. They can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift, which can significantly increase their overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Santa Clara vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn on average about $15.21 per hour, which equates to roughly $31,636.80 annually.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Santa Clara earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $20.43 and an annual salary nearing $42,494.40.
This difference can be linked to higher living costs and demand for skilled Barbacks in the Santa Clara area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Clara for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Barbacks:
- Downtown Santa Clara: $21.50 per hour
- Santa Clara University Area: $22.00 per hour
Barbacks working near the Santa Clara University Area enjoy the highest wages compared to other nearby locations.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Santa Clara?
A number of factors impact how much a Barback can earn in Santa Clara.
- Experience and Skill Level: Barbacks with more experience or specialized skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, hotels, and high-end restaurants often pay better than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Tips and Night Shifts: Working during busier hours or in establishments with higher tipping amounts can elevate earnings.
- Certifications: Certain certifications like responsible beverage service can improve employability and salary.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Santa Clara's competitive labor market and living expenses contribute to wage differences compared to other areas.
How To Become a Barback in Santa Clara
Getting started as a Barback in Santa Clara involves several recommended steps.
Complete specialized training: Programs like the Bartending School of Santa Clara provide comprehensive barback and bartending skills training including mixology and customer service.
Gain hands-on experience: The Silicon Valley Bartending Academy offers practical experience and certification essential for aspiring Barbacks and Bartenders.
Obtain mandatory certifications: Acquiring a California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification is required for alcohol servers in California to ensure responsible alcohol service.
Also, a Food Handler Card is necessary for all food and beverage workers in the state to demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Santa Clara
Key establishments in Santa Clara looking for skilled Barbacks include:
- Eataly Silicon Valley
- Hotel Nia
- Clara's Junction
Establishments That Barbacks in Santa Clara Work At
Barbacks in Santa Clara are typically employed at a variety of venues including:
- Casual restaurants: Often entry points into the hospitality industry with moderate pay.
- Bars and Nightclubs: These establishments tend to offer higher tip opportunities and sometimes better wage rates.
- Fast casual dining: Usually involves faster-paced work with more consistent schedules but possibly lower tips.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Larger operations often provide more stable employment with potentially higher wages and perks.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in a Barback’s overall salary potential through varying base wages and tipping opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Clara for Barbacks
If you are exploring related hospitality roles, the following careers share similarities in skillset or work environment:
These positions include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter, each offering different responsibilities and salary structures within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Santa Clara
Barbacks working in Santa Clara should be mindful of relevant labor laws and tax requirements.
- For state labor laws and regulations, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For alcohol server licensing and compliance, refer to the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control.
- Local ordinances and business regulations for Santa Clara can be found on the City of Santa Clara Official Website.