Bartender Salary in Lees-Summit, MO
Bartenders in Lees-Summit, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $25.04 per hour, which translates to about $1,001.60 per week, $4,340.27 per month, and $52,083.20 per year.
The demand for Bartenders in Lees-Summit is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market with increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Bartender Make in Lees-Summit, MO?
The salary of a Bartender in Lees-Summit can differ based on experience and employer, but here’s a breakdown of earnings from entry level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.37 | $574.80 | $2,479.20 | $29,889.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.04 | $1,001.60 | $4,340.27 | $52,083.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.63 | $1,745.20 | $7,531.47 | $90,710.40 |
Do Bartenders in Lees-Summit Earn Tips?
Bartenders commonly earn additional income through tips. On average, they can make about an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, considerably boosting their overall earnings depending on the venue and clientele.
Bartender Salary in Lees-Summit vs. National Average
Nationally, Bartenders earn an average of around $17.64 per hour, which amounts to about $36,691.20 per year.
Compared to the national figures, Bartenders in Lees-Summit earn significantly more on average, with hourly wages at approximately $25.04 and yearly salaries reaching about $52,083.20. This difference reflects the local demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lees-Summit for Bartenders
In nearby regions, Bartender salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown Lee's Summit: $26.50 per hour
- New Longview: $25.75 per hour
Bartenders working in Downtown Lee's Summit earn the highest wages, slightly above Lees-Summit city average, suggesting a premium for central or busier locations.
What Influences a Bartender’s Salary in Lees-Summit?
Multiple factors affect a Bartender's salary in Lees-Summit. Understanding these can help maximize earnings potential.
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Bartenders with skills in mixology and customer service often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale bars, lounges, and hotels typically pay more compared to casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts with peak hours can offer more tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Certifications: Certifications in responsible alcohol service might improve job prospects and pay.
- Location: Working in busy or tourist-heavy locations generally increases earning potential due to higher patronage and tips.
How To Become a Bartender in Lees-Summit
Starting a career as a Bartender in Lees-Summit involves a few key steps to prepare and qualify for the role.
- Complete Bartending Training: Enrolling in schools like Brooklyn Bartending School in Lees-Summit or ABC Bartending School nearby in Kansas City offers comprehensive mixology training and job placement assistance.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The Missouri Responsible Serving of Alcohol Certification is mandatory. Additionally, obtaining the nationally recognized TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is beneficial for responsible alcohol management.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many start as barbacks or in trainee positions, honing their customer service and cocktail preparation skills.
- Develop Soft Skills: Communication, multitasking, and an outgoing personality are crucial in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Bartenders in Lees-Summit
Several prominent businesses in Lees-Summit actively hire Bartenders, including:
- Red Door Grill
- Hy-Vee, Inc.
- Chili's
- 30hop
- Buffalo Wild Wings
Establishments That Bartenders in Lees-Summit Work At
Bartenders find employment across a variety of establishments, each offering different work environments and salary potentials.
- Casual Bars and Pubs: Common employment venues offering steady work and moderate pay with tip potential.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Often pay a base wage with additional tips, though tips might be less than in specialized bars.
- Upscale Lounges and Hotels: Typically provide higher pay and access to more generous tipping, boosting total compensation.
- Event Venues and Catering Services: May provide short-term opportunities with variable pay depending on events.
Choosing an establishment depends on career goals, with upscale venues generally offering higher earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lees-Summit for Bartenders
If you are considering roles similar to Bartender, here are some related careers in Lees-Summit to explore:
These include Bar Manager, Barback, and Barista positions, which involve related skills and responsibilities within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bartenders in Lees-Summit
Bartenders need to be aware of both federal and state labor laws as well as local tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- For federal labor laws, including wage and hour standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website.
- Missouri-specific labor laws and resources can be found at the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website.
- The official website of the City of Lee's Summit, MO provides local government information and employment resources.