Barback Salary in Santa Fe, NM
Barbacks in Santa Fe, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job demand for Barbacks in Santa Fe is growing positively at about 5% per year, signaling a healthy rise in opportunities within local bars and restaurants.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The earnings of a Barback in Santa Fe vary based on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown by experience tiers.
| 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. On average, Barbacks in Santa Fe can expect to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and shift.
Barback Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn approximately $14.50 per hour, amounting to around $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Santa Fe earn slightly less hourly at $13.90, and their annual salary of $28,912 is also marginally below the national figure.
This difference may reflect local cost of living variations and the scale of hospitality venues in Santa Fe.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Barbacks
Nearby areas offer varying wages for Barbacks, including:
- Downtown Santa Fe: $15.50 per hour
- Railyard District: $17.60 per hour
The Railyard District offers the highest wages for Barbacks close to Santa Fe, making it an attractive area for job seekers in this role.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Santa Fe?
Several key factors impact how much a Barback can earn in Santa Fe:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with strong knowledge of bar operations and inventory management often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars and busy nightclubs tend to pay better and offer higher tips compared to casual or smaller venues.
- Location Within Santa Fe: Working in high-demand districts like the Railyard can lead to better pay.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with added compensation or more tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Barback in Santa Fe
Entering the Barback profession in Santa Fe involves several steps to increase your employability and potential earnings.
- Complete Training Programs: Consider enrolling in the Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive skills including beverage management beneficial for Barbacks.
- Attend Specialized Schools: The New Mexico Bartending School provides focused courses on bartending and barbacking, covering mixology and customer service.
- Obtain Necessary Permits: Secure the New Mexico Alcohol Server Permit, which is mandatory and includes training on responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Certifications: Serving alcohol responsibly is further supported by certifications like the ServSafe Alcohol Certification, a nationally recognized program.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level roles within bars to build hands-on skills can improve career prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Santa Fe
Several well-known establishments actively seek Barbacks:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Barbacks in Santa Fe Work At
Barbacks typically work across various hospitality venues such as:
- Casual Bars: These establishments offer consistent but moderate pay and good opportunities for tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Barbacks here might have a more limited scope but steady hours and wages.
- Nightclubs and High-End Bars: These tend to offer higher wages and significant tipping potential.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher wages due to the premium customer base and require skilled Barbacks.
The type and prestige of the establishment strongly influence salary and tip earning potential for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Barbacks
If you're interested in careers similar to Barback, consider these roles that require related skills and offer different career paths:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista roles, which share overlapping skills in bar operations and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Santa Fe
Barbacks in Santa Fe should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the State of New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions website for information on labor laws, employment services, and workforce development.
- For federal labor laws, check the U.S. Department of Labor's official website to learn about wage standards and occupational safety.