Barback Salary in Springfield, MA
Barbacks in Springfield, MA, 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 demand for Barbacks is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting increasing opportunities within the hospitality and nightlife industry in Springfield and the surrounding area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Springfield, MA?
The salary of a Barback in Springfield varies depending on experience and the specific employer. Here's a breakdown across different 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Springfield Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks typically earn tips in addition to their regular wages. They can make approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue and shift, boosting their overall income significantly.
Barback Salary in Springfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equals about $30,160 per year.
Barbacks in Springfield earn slightly less than the national average hourly wage of $14.50, at $13.90 per hour, and annually earn around $28,912. This difference might be influenced by local market conditions and the cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Springfield for Barbacks
Nearby areas paying more for Barback positions include:
- Downtown Springfield: $15.50 per hour
- Forest Park: $14.80 per hour
Those willing to commute to Downtown Springfield could find better compensation opportunities compared to other neighborhoods.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Springfield?
Several key factors directly impact how much a Barback can earn:
- Experience: Seasoned Barbacks with years of service often earn more due to reliability and proficiency.
- Skill Set: Being knowledgeable in bar operations, quick stocking, and assisting Bartenders efficiently can increase value and wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, clubs, and restaurants typically pay higher salaries compared to casual bars or smaller venues.
- Location: Working in central business districts or popular nightlife areas can yield better pay.
- Shift Timing: Late-night or weekend shifts might come with additional premium pay or more generous tips.
How To Become a Barback in Springfield
To start a career as a Barback in Springfield, consider the following steps:
- Gain basic hospitality knowledge: Enroll in programs like Springfield Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program, which covers bar operations and beverage management.
- Get relevant culinary or beverage training: Holyoke Community College Culinary Arts Program offers courses suitable for aspiring Barbacks to understand food and beverage service.
- Obtain certifications: Certifications like TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) and ServSafe Alcohol Certification are often recommended or required for alcohol-related service roles in Massachusetts.
- Acquire hands-on experience: Entry-level jobs at bars or restaurants help build the skills needed to advance.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Springfield
Some of the popular establishments looking to hire Barbacks include:
- The Student Prince Cafe
- Max's Tavern
- Theodores' Booze Blues & BBQ
Establishments That Barbacks in Springfield Work At
Barbacks typically work in various hospitality venues such as:
- Casual Bars: Usually have steady but moderate pay with opportunity for tips.
- Fast Casual and Nightclubs: Often busier environments where earnings can be higher due to volume and tips.
- High-end Restaurants and Hotels: May offer better wages and benefits compared to lower-tier establishments.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in determining salary and tip potential for Barbacks.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Springfield for Barbacks
If you're considering careers similar to being a Barback, here are some related positions you might explore:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter, all of which share some duties or skills related to beverage or customer service roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Springfield
Barbacks should be familiar with applicable state and federal labor laws and tax regulations:
- Visit the Official website of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for detailed guidance on employment laws and worker rights.
- Consult the U.S. Department of Labor's official website for federal labor regulations and workplace standards.