Barback Salary in St. Louis, MO
Barbacks in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $13.50 per hour, which translates to about $540.00 per week, $2,340.00 per month, and $28,080.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in St. Louis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for support staff in bars and restaurants as the hospitality industry expands in the region.
How Much Does a Barback Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Barback in St. Louis varies based on experience and employer characteristics. Here is a breakdown of earnings by experience level for a standard 40-hour workweek.
| 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) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in St. Louis often earn tips in addition to their base pay. They can typically make an extra around $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and the volume of customers. This can significantly boost overall earnings, making the position more lucrative.
Barback Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50, with yearly earnings around $30,160.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in St. Louis earn slightly less at approximately $13.50 per hour and a yearly salary of $28,080. This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Barbacks
Nearby areas to St. Louis offer the following pay rates for Barbacks:
- Webster Groves: $16.50 per hour
- Downtown St. Louis: $15.50 per hour
Barbacks working in Webster Groves tend to have the highest earnings in the vicinity, likely due to the type of venues and client demographics.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several key factors impact how much a Barback earns in St. Louis:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with proficiency in bar operations and multitasking typically earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, nightclubs, and casinos tend to pay more than casual pubs or fast casual venues.
- Location within the City: Working in high-traffic or affluent neighborhoods often results in higher pay and better tips.
- Shift Timing: Night and weekend shifts can include shift differentials or increased tipping opportunities.
- Certifications: Having certifications related to alcohol service or hospitality can make candidates more attractive to employers and boost pay.
How To Become a Barback in St. Louis
Launching a career as a Barback in St. Louis involves several important steps to gain the necessary skills and credentials.
- Enroll in Relevant Training Programs: Programs such as the St. Louis Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational knowledge in culinary and beverage management useful for Barbacks.
- Obtain Bartending and Bar Service Training: Training from organizations like BarSmart Bartending School can equip aspiring Barbacks with essential bar operations and mixology skills.
- Acquire Responsible Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Alcohol Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification are often required by employers and demonstrate competency in responsible service.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working part-time or as an assistant in hospitality venues helps build on-the-job skills and increases employability.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in St. Louis
Several prominent employers in St. Louis frequently seek qualified Barbacks, including:
- River City Casino & Hotel
- Twin Peaks Restaurants
- Retreat Gastropub
Establishments That Barbacks in St. Louis Work At
Barbacks typically find employment at a variety of establishments within the hospitality sector. These include:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These venues often have steady demand for Barbacks but may offer modest wages.
- Nightclubs and Entertainment Venues: May pay higher wages and offer substantial tip opportunities due to higher customer volumes and extended hours.
- Restaurants and Gastropubs: Barbacks here support both bar and food service with varied pay rates based on the establishment's prestige.
- Casinos and Hotels: Large-scale operations like casinos provide better pay, benefits, and career advancement opportunities.
The type and scale of the establishment have a considerable impact on the Barback's overall salary and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Barbacks
If you are interested in careers related to Barback, consider these similar positions that share overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These roles include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista, all of which can offer alternative career paths within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in St. Louis
Barbacks should familiarize themselves with relevant federal, state, and city labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for information on minimum wage, overtime, and worker rights.
- Consult the Missouri state website for labor laws and employment resources for state-specific employment regulations.
- Check the City of St. Louis official website for local employment information and resources.