Barback Salary in Santa Maria, CA
Barbacks in Santa Maria, CA, in 2026, 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 demand for Barbacks in Santa Maria is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding hospitality and nightlife industry in the region.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Santa Maria, CA?
The salary of a Barback in Santa Maria can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Santa Maria Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically earn some tips depending on the establishment and the volume of customers. Tips can significantly boost their income, often adding an extra $5 to $15 per hour during busy shifts.
Barback Salary in Santa Maria vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Santa Maria earn slightly less hourly at about $13.90 per hour and make about $28,912 annually.
This difference may be due to regional cost of living and market demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Maria for Barbacks
When looking at nearby areas, Barback salaries vary as follows:
- Downtown Santa Maria: $15.50 per hour
- Orcutt: $17.60 per hour
Barbacks working in Orcutt tend to earn the highest pay among nearby locations, reflecting the local market and establishment types.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Santa Maria?
Several factors influence the salary of a Barback in Santa Maria:
- Experience: Barbacks with more experience generally earn higher wages due to efficiency and knowledge of bar operations.
- Skills: Additional skills such as basic mixology or knowledge of inventory management can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, nightclubs, and busy restaurants tend to pay better than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials or higher tips.
- Local Demand: The hospitality scene’s size and popularity in an area greatly affect available salaries.
How To Become a Barback in Santa Maria
To pursue a career as a Barback in Santa Maria, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Hospitality Training: Completing courses like the Allan Hancock College Culinary Arts Program can provide foundational knowledge relevant to bar work.
- Enroll in Bartending Training: Programs such as the Santa Maria Bartending School offer practical skills in bartending and bar operations, valuable for Barbacks.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Certifications like the California Responsible Beverage Service (RBS) Certification and a Food Handler Card are often mandatory.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Santa Maria
Leading employers seeking Barbacks in Santa Maria include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Barbacks in Santa Maria Work At
Barbacks commonly work in a range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments provide steady hours but often lower wages and tips.
- Fast Casual and Quick-Service Bars: Usually offer consistent work with moderate pay rates.
- Nightclubs and High-Volume Bars: Tend to offer higher pay and better tipping opportunities given the busy environment.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer more stability and benefits compared to independent bars.
The type of establishment can significantly impact the salary and tipping potential for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Maria for Barbacks
If you are interested in careers related to a Barback, here are a few similar roles worth considering:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Busser positions, which share some responsibilities and career paths with Barbacks.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Santa Maria
Barbacks should stay informed about applicable labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- California state-specific labor rules are available at the California Department of Industrial Relations site.
- For regulations and resources specific to Santa Maria, visit the City of Santa Maria official website.