Barback Salary in Tulsa, OK
Barbacks in Tulsa, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $10.24 per hour, which translates to about $409.60 per week, $1,774.93 per month, and $21,299.20 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Tulsa is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend in job opportunities and expansion in the hospitality and nightlife industries.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Tulsa, OK?
The salary of a Barback in Tulsa varies based on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.65 | $346.00 | $1,495.33 | $17,992.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $10.24 | $409.60 | $1,774.93 | $21,299.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.75 | $510.00 | $2,210.00 | $26,520.00 |
Do Barbacks in Tulsa Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Tulsa, Barbacks can make approximately an extra $3 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift, which can substantially increase their overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Tulsa vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of about $13.90 per hour, or roughly $28,912 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Tulsa earn a lower hourly wage of $10.24 per hour and an annual salary of about $21,299.20.
This difference can be attributed to regional cost of living differences and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Tulsa for Barbacks
In the vicinity of Tulsa, certain neighborhoods offer higher wages for Barbacks:
- Downtown Tulsa: $11.50 per hour
- Brookside: $12.00 per hour
Working in Brookside typically offers the highest pay among these areas for this position.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Tulsa?
Several factors can impact how much a Barback earns in Tulsa:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Barbacks or those with additional skills in inventory management and bartending assistance often command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end bars, nightclubs, and busy restaurants usually offer better compensation than smaller or casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Night shifts and weekends can bring higher tips and sometimes better base wages.
- Location: Establishments in premium areas like Brookside pay more than those in less busy neighborhoods.
How To Become a Barback in Tulsa
Starting a career as a Barback in Tulsa is approachable with these steps:
- Complete Relevant Education: Enrolling in programs like the Tulsa Community College Hospitality Management Program or Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Culinary Arts Program provides foundational industry knowledge.
- Obtain Required Licenses: Having the Oklahoma ABLE Commission Alcohol Server License is crucial for serving alcoholic beverages responsibly.
- Get Certified for Food Safety: The Tulsa Health Department Food Handler Permit ensures compliance with hygiene and safety standards.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level hospitality roles can help build practical skills needed for the Barback position.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Tulsa
Several prominent employers actively seek Barbacks in Tulsa, including:
- Hilton
- Dave & Buster's
- Oak View Group
Establishments That Barbacks in Tulsa Work At
Barbacks work in a variety of settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places offer steady work but usually have lower wages and tips compared to high-end venues.
- Nightclubs and Bars: Often pay higher wages and provide substantial tips, especially during weekend nights.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues may offer higher rates and benefits but could have more structured roles.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These usually pay the least but offer more entry-level opportunities for beginners.
The choice of establishment plays a significant role in a Barback's earnings and work environment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Tulsa for Barbacks
If you are interested in roles similar to Barback, here are a few related careers to consider:
These include the positions of Bartender, Barback, and Barista, each involving beverage service and customer interaction at varying responsibility levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Tulsa
It is important for Barbacks in Tulsa to be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax responsibilities to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- For alcohol service regulations and server licensing, visit the Oklahoma ABLE Commission official website.
- Food safety and health standards are overseen by the Tulsa Health Department.
- Federal labor laws covering wages, hours, and workplace conditions can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor's website.