Barista Salary in Omaha, NE
Baristas in Omaha, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The demand for Baristas in Omaha is growing steadily at about 6% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for coffee professionals and service workers in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Barista Make in Omaha, NE?
The salary of a Barista in Omaha varies depending on experience and skill level. Below is an overview of typical pay across entry-level to top earners based on hourly wages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.03 | $641.20 | $2,773.73 | $33,302.40 |
Do Baristas in Omaha Earn Tips?
Yes, Baristas in Omaha typically earn tips. On average, they can make an additional $3 to $5 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost overall earnings especially in busy establishments and during peak hours.
Barista Salary in Omaha vs. National Average
Nationally, Baristas earn an average of around $15.00 per hour, translating to about $31,200.00 per year.
Baristas in Omaha earn approximately the same hourly wage and annual salary as the national average, making it a competitive market for coffee service professionals.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Omaha for Baristas
Looking at areas near Omaha, Barista salaries can vary slightly based on location:
- Downtown Omaha: $15.50 per hour
- Old Market: $15.75 per hour
Baristas working in these bustling central neighborhoods tend to earn a bit more than the city average due to higher demand and increased customer flow.
What Influences a Barista’s Salary in Omaha?
Several key factors can influence how much a Barista earns in Omaha:
- Experience: More experienced Baristas who have mastered coffee brewing and customer service tend to earn higher wages.
- Specialized Skills: Proficiency in latte art, knowledge of specialty coffee beans, and beverage preparation can command premium pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end cafes and specialty coffee shops usually pay more than fast-food or chain coffee outlets.
- Location: Working in busy downtown or tourist areas can offer more tips and better wages.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might come with additional pay incentives.
How To Become a Barista in Omaha
Becoming a Barista in Omaha involves a combination of training, experience, and customer service skills:
- Formal Training: Enrolling in programs such as the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program can provide practical knowledge in coffee preparation and beverage management.
- Company-Specific Training: Participating in training programs like Scooter's Coffee Barista Training Program helps develop expertise in operational procedures and customer service.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications such as the Specialty Coffee Association (SCA) Barista Skills Certification validates coffee-making skills and can enhance job prospects.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Acquiring a ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures familiarity with safety practices often required by employers.
- Hands-On Experience: Starting at entry-level positions and gaining experience is crucial to mastering the role.
Top Employers Hiring Baristas in Omaha
Some of the leading companies and coffee shops hiring Baristas in Omaha include:
- Starbucks
- Scooter's Coffee
- Archetype Coffee
- Culprit Coffee Co.
- The Human Bean
Establishments That Baristas in Omaha Work At
Baristas in Omaha typically work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Specialty Coffee Shops: These usually offer higher pay due to the quality of service and products sold.
- Fast Casual Cafes: Moderate pay and fast-paced environments.
- Chain Coffee Stores: Consistent hours but often lower base salary with reliance on tips.
- Casual Restaurants and Bakeries: Can provide additional experience but may pay less than dedicated coffee shops.
Choosing the right type of establishment can influence both the base wage and tip opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Omaha for Baristas
If you’re considering options related to Barista roles, here are a few similar hospitality careers that might interest you:
These include Bartender, Bar Manager, and Barista roles, which share skills related to beverage preparation and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Baristas in Omaha
Baristas should familiarize themselves with state and federal labor laws and tax regulations to ensure they understand their rights and responsibilities.
- Information on Nebraska labor laws and workforce services can be found at the State of Nebraska Department of Labor website.
- For national employment statistics and occupational outlooks, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics website is a valuable resource.