Barback Salary in Waco, TX
Barbacks in Waco, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $11.50 per hour, which translates to about $460.00 per week, $1,993.33 per month, and $23,920.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Waco is growing positively at about 9% per year, indicating an expanding job market and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Waco, TX?
The salary of a Barback in Waco varies based on experience and employer, but here is an overview of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.50 | $460.00 | $1,983.33 | $23,920.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $26,960.00 |
Do Barbacks in Waco Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks typically earn tips as part of their compensation. They can often make an additional around $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift, which significantly increases their total income.
Barback Salary in Waco vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $12.00 per hour, which is about $24,960.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Barbacks in Waco earn slightly less hourly at $11.50, and slightly below on an annual basis at $23,920.00. This reflects local living costs and market rates.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waco for Barbacks
Some nearby areas offer better pay rates for Barbacks, including:
- Downtown Waco: $12.00 per hour
- Baylor University Area: $11.80 per hour
Working in Downtown Waco can provide Barbacks with slightly higher wages compared to other neighborhoods.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Waco?
Several key factors affect the salary of a Barback in Waco, TX.
- Experience and Skill Level: Barbacks with more experience and multitasking abilities tend to earn higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-volume or upscale bars and restaurants typically offer better compensation.
- Location: Working in busier districts such as Downtown Waco may provide increased earnings due to higher tip potential and wages.
- Certifications: Holding relevant certifications related to alcohol service or food safety can enhance employability and pay.
How To Become a Barback in Waco
Becoming a Barback in Waco involves a practical combination of education and hands-on experience.
Enrollment in programs such as the McLennan Community College Hospitality Program or the Texas State Technical College Culinary Arts Program provides foundational knowledge useful for this role.
Most employers require a Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification for alcohol handling, and a Food Handler's Permit is often necessary to comply with food safety laws.
Starting as a Barback usually requires gaining experience in bars or restaurants, learning to stock supplies, clean efficiently, and support Bartenders effectively.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Waco
Some of the key employers in Waco hiring Barbacks include:
- The Backyard Bar Stage and Grill
- George's Restaurant & Bar
- Cricket's Draft House & Grill
Establishments That Barbacks in Waco Work At
Barbacks commonly find work in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Bars and Grills: These venues offer steady work with moderate wages and tip potential.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have high customer turnover, requiring fast-paced support with varying pay.
- Nightclubs and Live Music Venues: These usually offer higher tips and sometimes higher base pay due to busy environments.
The type of establishment significantly influences Barback's salary, with upscale or busy venues offering more lucrative opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waco for Barbacks
Barbacks may also consider related roles in the hospitality industry to expand their career prospects.
These similar careers include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Backwaiter positions, which offer varying responsibilities and salary ranges within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Waco
Barbacks should be familiar with state and federal labor laws and tax requirements to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- Visit the Texas Workforce Commission for information on Texas labor laws and employment standards.
- The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission website provides regulations regarding alcohol service and licenses.
- For federal wage and labor laws, see the U.S. Department of Labor.