Fine Dining Server Salary in Billings, MT
Fine Dining Servers in Billings, MT, in 2025, earn approximately $16.33 per hour, which translates to about $653.20 per week, $2,830.53 per month, and $33,966.40 per year.
The job outlook for Fine Dining Servers in Billings is positive, with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for skilled servers in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Billings, MT?
Fine Dining Server salaries in Billings vary based on experience and tenure. Below is an overview of typical pay rates at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.27 | $450.80 | $1,958.93 | $23,450.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.33 | $653.20 | $2,830.53 | $33,966.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.66 | $946.40 | $4,078.93 | $48,972.80 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Billings Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. They can earn approximately an extra $10 per hour in tips, which greatly enhances their overall earnings potential in Billings.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Billings vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average hourly wage of about $17.18, translating to roughly $35,734.40 annually.
Compared to this, Fine Dining Servers in Billings earn slightly less on average at $16.33 per hour and about $33,966.40 per year. Local economic factors and cost of living contribute to this modest difference.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Billings for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer the following average hourly pay for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown Billings: $17.50 per hour
- West End: $18.00 per hour
Working in these parts of Billings can provide Fine Dining Servers with a salary boost compared to the city average.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Billings?
Several important factors influence the salary of a Fine Dining Server in Billings:
- Experience: Servers with more years in fine dining typically command higher wages and receive better tips.
- Skill Level: Expertise in customer service, product knowledge, and upselling can increase earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants often pay better salaries and higher tips than casual eateries.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts might offer higher pay or more tipping opportunities.
- Local Demand: Areas with more affluent clientele or tourist traffic can lead to better income for servers.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Billings
Becoming a Fine Dining Server in Billings involves a combination of training, certifications, and experience:
- Culinary Arts Program at Montana State University Billings: Provides comprehensive training in culinary techniques and restaurant management that can enhance understanding and skills useful for fine dining service.
- Hospitality Management Program at City College: This program offers education on hospitality industry standards and customer service excellence, important for fine dining roles.
- ServSafe Food Handler Certification: Ensures knowledge of food safety practices which is often required in serving roles.
- Montana Alcohol Server Training: Mandatory training in Montana for serving alcoholic beverages responsibly, a crucial certification for fine dining servers.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Billings
Some of the leading employers seeking skilled Fine Dining Servers in Billings include:
- Famous Dave's
- Applebee's
- MacKenzie River Pizza Co
- Northern Hotel
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Billings Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically work in various types of establishments in Billings such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues offer the highest pay and tip potential due to their upscale nature and clientele.
- Casual Dining: Servers earn moderate wages with tipping opportunities, but generally less than fine dining.
- Hotels and Resorts: May offer stable employment with competitive wages and regular shifts.
The type of establishment greatly influences salary, with fine dining providing the most lucrative opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Billings for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in career options related to Fine Dining Server, you might consider these similar hospitality roles:
These include Server, Banquet Server, and Waiter/Waitress roles, all of which share service-related duties and earning potential through tips.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Billings
As a Fine Dining Server in Billings, it's crucial to stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations. Helpful resources include:
- Montana Department of Labor and Industry - state labor laws and regulations can be found on the Montana Department of Labor and Industry website.
- Federal tax information is available through the Internal Revenue Service.
- Local ordinances and employment resources can be accessed via the City of Billings Official Website.