Barback Salary in St Petersburg, FL
Barbacks in St Petersburg, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.16 per hour, which translates to about $726.40 per week, $3,147.73 per month, and $37,772.80 per year.
The job market for Barbacks in St Petersburg is growing at a moderate rate of around 2% per year, indicating a steady demand for supporting roles in the hospitality and nightlife industries in the area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in St Petersburg, FL?
The average salary of a Barback in St Petersburg varies based on experience and skills. Below is an estimated breakdown of hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly pay levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.42 | $576.80 | $2,491.73 | $29,993.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.16 | $726.40 | $3,147.73 | $37,772.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.42 | $976.80 | $4,216.53 | $50,793.60 |
Do Barbacks in St Petersburg Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks often earn extra income through tips. Depending on the establishment, a Barback can make an additional $5 to $15 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall earnings beyond the base salary.
Barback Salary in St Petersburg vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn about $14.82 per hour or roughly $30,825.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in St Petersburg tend to earn more, at $18.16 per hour and about $37,772.80 annually.
This wage increase may be influenced by the local hospitality industry's strength and the cost of living in Florida.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St Petersburg for Barbacks
Looking at nearby neighborhoods, here are some of the highest-paying areas for Barbacks:
- Downtown St. Petersburg: $19.50 per hour
- Historic Old Northeast: $18.70 per hour
Barbacks working in Downtown St. Petersburg can expect somewhat higher pay than in other nearby neighborhoods, reflecting the area's bustling nightlife and hospitality scene.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in St Petersburg?
A Barback’s salary in St Petersburg can be affected by several key factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: Those with more experience or additional skills like basic bartending can command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars or nightclubs often pay more compared to casual or fast-casual venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Late night shifts or weekend work may come with premium pay or higher tipping opportunities.
- Additional Certifications: Having certifications related to alcohol service and food safety can improve employability and pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Economic conditions in St Petersburg and competition among venues impact salary levels.
How To Become a Barback in St Petersburg
To pursue a career as a Barback in St Petersburg, consider these steps:
- Gain Basic Hospitality Training: Programs like the Hospitality Management Program at St. Petersburg College equip candidates with essential knowledge in hospitality operations, including bar management.
- Attend a Bartending School: The Bartending School of Tampa Bay nearby provides hands-on skill development beneficial for Barbacks seeking advancement.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Acquire the SafeStaff Food Handler Certification required in Florida to ensure knowledge of food safety protocols.
- Consider Alcohol Service Training: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is valuable for responsible alcohol service awareness.
- Build Practical Experience: Many Barbacks start by assisting bartenders in local bars and clubs to learn the workflow and responsibilities.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in St Petersburg
Some notable establishments currently hiring Barbacks in St Petersburg include:
- The Moxy St. Petersburg
- St. Petersburg Yacht Club
- BAR548
Establishments That Barbacks in St Petersburg Work At
Barbacks commonly find jobs in a range of hospitality settings such as:
- Nightclubs and Bars: These venues typically offer higher wages and sizable tip potential due to busy service demands.
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: While pay might be more modest, these establishments provide steady hours and experience.
- Hotels and Resorts: Working in hotel bars or lounges may come with additional benefits and professional growth opportunities.
- Event Venues and Clubs: Salary may vary based on event frequency and patronage.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly influence both base pay and tips, affecting overall income levels.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St Petersburg for Barbacks
If you're interested in career paths similar to Barback, here are a few related roles you might explore:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista roles, all of which share duties related to beverage service and hospitality support.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in St Petersburg
Barbacks should familiarize themselves with labor and tax regulations applicable in their region to ensure compliance and fair treatment.
- U.S. Department of Labor: A federal resource covering labor laws, wage standards, and workplace regulations.
- Florida State Official Website: Offers information on state-specific labor laws and employee rights.
- City of St. Petersburg: Provides local employment resources, tax regulations, and worker support services.