Barback Salary in Trenton, NJ
Barbacks in Trenton, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.36 per hour, which translates to about $694.40 per week, $3,009.07 per month, and $36,108.80 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Trenton is growing at a healthy rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for individuals seeking employment in this supporting role within the hospitality and nightlife industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Trenton, NJ?
The earnings of a Barback in Trenton vary based on experience and workplace, but here’s a breakdown across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.36 | $694.40 | $3,009.07 | $36,108.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.38 | $975.20 | $4,217.07 | $50,710.40 |
Do Barbacks in Trenton Earn Tips?
Barbacks often earn tips in addition to their base salary. Depending on the establishment and shift, they can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, boosting their overall income significantly throughout a workday.
Barback Salary in Trenton vs. National Average
The national average hourly wage for Barbacks is approximately $14.82 per hour, equivalent to about $30,825.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Trenton earn a higher hourly wage, with an average of $17.36 per hour and a yearly salary of around $36,108.80. This reflects Trenton’s competitive market for bar service support roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Trenton for Barbacks
Nearby neighborhoods offering competitive salaries for Barbacks include:
- Downtown Trenton: $18.50 per hour
- Chambersburg: $17.00 per hour
Barbacks working in Downtown Trenton tend to earn a premium compared to other nearby areas, benefiting from a busier nightlife and more upscale venues.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Trenton?
Several factors can impact how much a Barback earns in Trenton:
- Experience and Skill Set: More experienced Barbacks who efficiently support bartenders and handle fast-paced environments usually command higher wages.
- Establishment Type: Upscale bars, nightclubs, or busy restaurants typically offer better pay and more lucrative tip opportunities than smaller venues.
- Shift Timing: Night shifts, weekends, and busy holidays can lead to higher hourly rates or increased tips.
- Additional Responsibilities: Barbacks who take on stock management, cleaning, and assisting bartenders with specialty drinks may earn more.
- Local Demand: A higher concentration of nightlife and entertainment venues in Trenton affects wage scales and job availability.
How To Become a Barback in Trenton
To start a career as a Barback in Trenton, prospective candidates can:
- Enroll in hospitality courses like the Mercer County Community College Hospitality Program that offer foundational skills useful for this role.
- Take practical training with programs such as the Trenton Adult School Bartending Course which covers bartending and barback duties.
- Obtain certifications like the New Jersey Alcohol Server Certification and the nationally recognized ServSafe Alcohol Certification, mandatory or advantageous for working in alcohol-serving environments.
- Gain experience by working entry-level roles in bars or restaurants to build familiarity with the environment and develop supportive skills.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Trenton
Barbacks in Trenton frequently find employment with notable companies such as:
- Yard House
- Topgolf
- Delaware North
Establishments That Barbacks in Trenton Work At
Barbacks in Trenton typically work across various hospitality venues including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These provide steady work but may offer more modest pay compared to upscale venues.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Often provide higher hourly wages and substantial tips, especially during busy hours.
- Hotels and Event Venues: These settings may offer stable employment with benefits and consistent scheduling.
Salary potential varies with the type and prestige of the establishment, with upscale bars and nightclubs generally providing the best overall compensation with tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Trenton for Barbacks
If you are interested in roles related to Barback, consider exploring these similar careers that also support the food and beverage industry:
These include roles such as Bartender, Barback, and Barista, which share overlapping skills and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Trenton
Understanding the labor regulations and tax obligations is essential for Barbacks working in Trenton.
- For comprehensive information on state-specific labor laws, visit the official website of the State of New Jersey.
- To learn about federal labor laws and workplace standards, the U.S. Department of Labor's official site provides valuable resources.