Barback Salary in Thornton, CO
Barbacks in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $21.20 per hour, which translates to about $848.00 per week, $3,674.67 per month, and $44,096.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Thornton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the hospitality and bar service industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Barback in Thornton can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a general overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.20 | $848.00 | $3,674.67 | $44,096.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.00 | $1,000.00 | $4,333.33 | $52,000.00 |
Do Barbacks in Thornton Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks generally do earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can often earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the location and traffic of the establishment they work at.
Barback Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.80 per hour, which translates to about $30,784.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Thornton earn significantly more, with an average hourly wage of $21.20 and an annual salary of $44,096.00. This reflects the local market demand and the higher living costs in the Colorado area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Barbacks
When looking at nearby areas, Barback salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Thornton: $22.50 per hour
- North Thornton: $21.00 per hour
Barbacks working in Downtown Thornton may earn higher wages compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Thornton?
Several key factors affect the salary of a Barback in Thornton, including:
- Experience Level: Barbacks with more years of experience often command higher wages due to efficiency and knowledge of bar operations.
- Skills and Certifications: Additional skills such as multitasking, organization, and responsible alcohol service certifications can improve pay.
- Type of Establishment: Bars, restaurants, nightclubs, and event venues may offer varying pay scales depending on their size and clientele.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often offer premium pay compared to daytime hours.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Thornton’s growing hospitality sector contributes to competitive salaries for Barbacks.
How To Become a Barback in Thornton
To pursue a career as a Barback in Thornton, here are a few steps to consider:
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs like the Bartending School of Denver provide comprehensive training in barbacking skills.
- Enroll in Hospitality Programs: Colleges such as Front Range Community College offer hospitality courses that include bar operations.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications such as TIPS Certification and ServSafe Alcohol Certification are highly valued by employers and demonstrate responsible alcohol service.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level roles such as barback apprenticeships or bartending assistants provide practical knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Thornton
Some prominent employers actively hiring Barbacks in Thornton include:
- Topgolf
- Yard House
- Punch Bowl Social
Establishments That Barbacks in Thornton Work At
Barbacks typically find employment across a range of establishments, including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: These often provide consistent shifts and tips, usually with moderate pay scales.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer slightly lower wages but often more predictable hours.
- Nightclubs and Lounges: These establishments tend to offer higher wages and more substantial tips due to late-night business.
- Event Venues and Golf Clubs: These can provide varied schedules with potentially higher earnings during peak events.
The type of establishment often impacts tipping potential and hourly wages for Barbacks in Thornton.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton for Barbacks
If you’re considering careers similar to Barback, here are a few related roles to explore:
These include Bartender, Barback, and Barista roles, which share similar work environments and skills in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Thornton
Barbacks should be informed about labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair work conditions and compliance.
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for information on state labor laws and regulations.
- For federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website provides resources on employment standards.