Barista Salary in Juneau, AK
Baristas in Juneau, AK, in 2025, earn approximately $19.05 per hour, which translates to about $762.00 per week, $3,302.00 per month, and $39,624.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Juneau is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for coffee shops and cafes in the region.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Juneau, AK?
The salary of a Barista in Juneau can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.55 | $582.00 | $2,514.00 | $30,168.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.05 | $762.00 | $3,302.00 | $39,624.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.92 | $996.80 | $4,310.13 | $51,817.60 |
Do Baristas in Juneau Earn Tips?
Baristas typically do earn tips, which can significantly boost their income. On average, Baristas in Juneau may earn an extra $3 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer traffic.
Barista Salary in Juneau vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.95 per hour, translating to about $33,176 per year.
When compared to the national average, Baristas in Juneau earn higher wages, at about $19.05 per hour and $39,624 annually.
This increase can be attributed to the higher cost of living in Alaska and the demand for skilled Baristas in Juneau.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Juneau for Baristas
When looking at nearby areas, Barista salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown: $19.05 per hour
- Mendenhall: $17.94 per hour
Baristas working in Downtown Juneau might find better pay compared to those in Mendenhall, although both areas offer competitive wages within the region.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Juneau?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Barista in Juneau:
- Experience and Skill Level: Baristas with advanced skills in espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in specialty coffee shops or busy urban cafes often offers better pay than smaller or fast-food establishments.
- Certifications and Training: Completing recognized barista training programs or certifications can positively impact earning potential.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might provide shift differentials and additional earnings.
- Tips: Locations with high foot traffic and generous customers can boost overall income through tips.
How To Become a Barista in Juneau
Starting a career as a Barista in Juneau involves several concrete steps to build skills and credentials:
- Complete Barista Training: Join local programs such as the Juneau Barista Training Workshops that focus on espresso preparation, latte art, and customer service skills.
- Consider Culinary Education: For broader culinary and beverage skills, the University of Alaska Southeast Culinary Arts Program offers relevant courses that can enhance your knowledge base.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The Alaska Food Worker Card is a mandatory certification for food service workers ensuring knowledge of food safety practices.
- Earn Specialty Certifications: Earning the Specialty Coffee Association Barista Certification adds recognized expertise in coffee preparation.
- Gain Practical Experience: Start by working in coffee shops to develop hands-on skills and customer interaction abilities.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Juneau
The following are some prominent employers seeking skilled Baristas in Juneau:
- Heritage Coffee Roasting Co.
- Fred Meyer
- Starbucks
Establishments That Baristas in Juneau Work At
Baristas typically find employment in a variety of establishments, including:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These often pay the highest wages and offer opportunities to refine barista techniques and knowledge.
- Casual Cafes: Offer steady employment with moderate pay and tips.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service Restaurants: Usually offer competitive base wages but lower tipping opportunities.
- Supermarkets and Grocery Stores: Baristas working here generally have more stable hours but somewhat lower pay.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Barista’s overall earnings, especially with respect to tips and skill requirements.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Juneau for Baristas
If you are interested in careers similar to Barista, the following positions may be worth considering:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barback roles, which share skills related to beverage preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Juneau
Baristas should be aware of federal and state labor laws and tax obligations to manage their work conditions and finances effectively.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive information.
- Check the State of Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development website for state-specific rules and resources.
- For local regulations and resources, see the City and Borough of Juneau official website.