Barback Salary in Wilmington, NC
Barbacks in Wilmington, NC, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Barbacks in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive employment outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Barback in Wilmington varies based on experience and employer, offering a range to suit different levels of expertise.
| 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Yes, Barbacks in Wilmington typically earn tips that can supplement their wages, often making an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue and shift, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Barback Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn around $14.50 per hour or about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Wilmington Barbacks earn slightly less in hourly wage at $13.90 per hour and make about $28,912 annually. This difference reflects local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Barbacks
Nearby areas offering higher pay for Barbacks include:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Riverfront: $17.60 per hour
Barbacks working closer to Wilmington’s Riverfront can enjoy increased pay rates compared to the city average, reflecting the high demand and upscale venues in that area.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors impact how much a Barback can earn in Wilmington:
- Experience Level: More experienced Barbacks often earn higher wages and better tips due to efficiency and knowledge of bar operations.
- Skills and Certifications: Familiarity with beverage preparation, stocking, and safety certifications can improve salary prospects.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale bars or busy nightclubs usually offers higher pay and tips compared to smaller casual venues.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts may come with higher tip potential and sometimes shift differentials.
How To Become a Barback in Wilmington
To start a career as a Barback in Wilmington, consider these key steps:
- Gain Basic Hospitality Experience: Entry-level hospitality roles or focus on bartending support tasks help build relevant skills.
- Enroll in Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Programs like the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program and UNC Wilmington Hospitality Management Program provide valuable training on beverage management and hospitality operations.
- Obtain Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications such as North Carolina Alcohol Server Training and ServSafe Alcohol Certification are often mandatory and enhance employability.
- Develop Physical Stamina and Communication Skills: These are essential for the fast-paced and demanding nature of bar work.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Wilmington
Key employers looking for Barbacks in Wilmington include:
- Front Street Brewery
- Copper Penny
- Bluewater Waterfront Grill
Establishments That Barbacks in Wilmington Work At
Barbacks typically work in a variety of hospitality venues, including:
- Casual Bars: Provide steady work with moderate wages and tip potential.
- Nightclubs and High-Volume Bars: Generally offer higher pay rates and significant tip opportunities due to fast service needs.
- Resort and Hotel Bars: Often provide better benefits and salary but may have varying tip patterns.
- Restaurants with Bar Services: Salient for gaining diverse experience though the pay may differ based on establishment prestige.
The type of establishment heavily affects salary and tips, with high-end clubs and busy downtown venues tending to pay the best.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Barbacks
If you are exploring roles similar to Barback, here are some related positions you may consider:
These careers include Bartender, Barback, and Barista, each offering different roles within the beverage and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Wilmington
Barbacks should familiarize themselves with laws and taxes applicable to their work to stay compliant and understand their rights.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The North Carolina state government website offers information on state-specific labor regulations.
- Local resources are available through the City of Wilmington government website for community and employment services.