Barback Salary in Surprise, AZ
In Surprise, AZ, Barbacks earn an average of $12.66 per hour, which translates to about $506.40 per week, $2,194.40 per month, and $26,332.80 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Surprise is growing significantly at about 27% per year, indicating a strong upward trend in job opportunities within the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Surprise, AZ?
The salary for a Barback in Surprise varies with experience and workplace, but here’s a breakdown for different 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) | $12.66 | $506.40 | $2,194.40 | $26,332.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,503.33 | $30,160.00 |
Do Barbacks in Surprise Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips alongside their hourly wage. Typically, they can make an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue and shift length, which can significantly boost their overall income.
Barback Salary in Surprise vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks make about $13.31 per hour, which calculates to approximately $27,684.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Surprise earn slightly less at $12.66 per hour and $26,332.80 annually. This difference may be influenced by the local cost of living and hospitality market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Surprise for Barbacks
If you are open to commuting, some nearby areas offer higher pay rates for Barbacks:
- Downtown Surprise: $13.50 per hour
- Surprise Farms: $14.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods could mean better wages and potentially more opportunities in busy establishments.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Surprise?
Several factors impact how much a Barback can earn in Surprise:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks who can assist bartenders efficiently and understand bar operations tend to earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars and busy nightclubs typically offer better wages and bigger tips than smaller pubs or casual venues.
- Shift Timings: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher earnings due to increased customer volume and tip opportunities.
- Local Demand: The hospitality workforce demand in Surprise directly affects bargaining power and wage levels.
How To Become a Barback in Surprise
Becoming a Barback requires some basic knowledge and certifications, along with hands-on experience.
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Courses: Programs like the West-MEC Culinary Arts Program and Estrella Mountain Community College Hospitality Program offer solid foundational knowledge useful in this role.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: The mandatory Arizona Food Handler's Card is required for all food service workers in the state.
- Get Responsible Alcohol Service Training: Earning TIPS Certification is valuable, as many employers require it for Barbacks involved in assisting with drink service.
- Gain On-The-Job Experience: Many Barbacks start as bar or restaurant assistants or bussers before moving into this role.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Surprise
Some of the most active employers looking for Barbacks in Surprise include:
- Yard House
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Chili's Grill & Bar
Establishments That Barbacks in Surprise Work At
Barbacks in Surprise typically work across various establishment types such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer consistent work but might have moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually have a fast-paced environment which may affect tip opportunities.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Higher traffic and longer hours can translate to better tips and slightly higher salaries.
- Hotels and Event Venues: These can provide more structured work with opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment strongly influences earnings, with upscale bars or busy clubs typically offering higher compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Surprise for Barbacks
If you're considering roles similar to Barback, here are a few related jobs in hospitality:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Backwaiter, roles that complement or complement the Barback position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Surprise
Barbacks in Surprise should be aware of key labor laws and tax guidelines to protect their rights and comply with regulations.
- For state health regulations and certifications, visit the Arizona Department of Health Services.
- The Arizona Department of Economic Security offers comprehensive employment and labor resources.
- For federal labor laws, standards, and wage information, consult the U.S. Department of Labor.