Barback Salary in Winston-Salem, NC
Barbacks in Winston-Salem, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.60 per hour, which translates to about $544.00 per week, $2,357.33 per month, and $28,288.00 per year.
The job market for Barbacks in Winston-Salem is growing modestly at around 2% per year, indicating a steady demand for support roles within the hospitality and nightlife industries in the area.
How Much Does a Barback Make in Winston-Salem, NC?
The salary of a Barback in Winston-Salem can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a typical range of earnings based on different experience levels.
| 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) | $13.60 | $544.00 | $2,357.33 | $28,288.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Barbacks in Winston-Salem Earn Tips?
Barbacks typically do earn tips as part of their income, often receiving an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue and shift. This can significantly boost overall earnings during busy periods or weekends.
Barback Salary in Winston-Salem vs. National Average
Nationally, Barbacks earn an average of around $14.80 per hour, or roughly $30,784.00 per year.
Compared to these figures, Barbacks in Winston-Salem earn a bit less, with an average hourly wage of $13.60 and an annual salary of $28,288.00. This difference may reflect the local cost of living and market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Winston-Salem for Barbacks
Nearby areas offering competitive pay for Barbacks include:
- Downtown: $14.50 per hour
- West End: $14.00 per hour
Those willing to commute to Downtown Winston-Salem may find slightly higher wages compared to other neighborhoods.
What Influences a Barback’s Salary in Winston-Salem?
A variety of factors play a role in determining how much a Barback can earn in Winston-Salem:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Barbacks with knowledge of bar operations and excellent customer service skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, clubs, and high-volume venues may offer better pay or more generous tips than casual or smaller establishments.
- Shift Timing: Night and weekend shifts often come with higher pay due to demand and tips.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with a thriving nightlife tend to offer more opportunities and better pay.
- Certifications and Training: Having training such as Responsible Beverage Service or ServSafe Alcohol Certification can make candidates more attractive and possibly boost salary.
How To Become a Barback in Winston-Salem
Starting a career as a Barback in Winston-Salem involves several important steps to enhance employability and income potential:
- Get Basic Industry Experience: Many Barbacks start by working in entry-level hospitality roles and learning the ropes on the job.
- Complete Training Programs: Forsyth Technical Community College offers a Hospitality Management Program which provides foundational knowledge useful for Barbacks.
- Enroll in Bartending Schools: Nearby options like the Bartending School of Greensboro offer courses covering bar operations, mixology basics, and Barback responsibilities.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications such as Responsible Beverage Service Training and ServSafe Alcohol Certification are often required or preferred by employers.
- Develop Key Skills: Physical stamina, attention to detail, and customer service skills help to excel as a Barback.
Top Employers Hiring Barbacks in Winston-Salem
Some of the well-known establishments currently hiring Barbacks in the area include:
- Dave & Buster's
- Twin Peaks
- InDemand Asian Street Food
- Burger Bar
Establishments That Barbacks in Winston-Salem Work At
Barbacks can find positions in a variety of establishments in Winston-Salem, including:
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Offering steady hours but often moderate pay and tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants with Bar Service: Combining food service with bar duties, potentially yielding more tips and a broader skill set.
- Nightclubs and Entertainment Venues: These usually offer higher tips and busier environments, which can increase earnings.
- Hotel Bars: May provide more regular shifts along with benefits.
The type of establishment greatly influences the volume of tips and base pay a Barback can expect.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Winston-Salem for Barbacks
If you're interested in careers related to Barback roles, consider exploring other hospitality positions with similar responsibilities and growth potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Barbacks in Winston-Salem
Barbacks should familiarize themselves with relevant federal and state labor laws as well as tax requirements to ensure fair treatment and compliance:
- Learn about workplace regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Understand specific North Carolina labor laws via the North Carolina Department of Labor's website.