Fine Dining Server Salary in Huntington, WV
Fine Dining Servers in Huntington, WV, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which is about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Huntington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the local fine dining hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Huntington, WV?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Huntington varies by experience and skill level. Below is an overview of earnings at different career stages.
| 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.33 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Huntington Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers in Huntington typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. It is common for servers in this role to make approximately an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly increasing their overall earnings.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Huntington vs. National Average
The national average hourly pay for Fine Dining Servers is about $14.50, with an annual average salary of approximately $30,160.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Huntington earn slightly less per hour at $13.90, with annual pay also a bit below the national figure at $28,912.
These variations can be influenced by local economic conditions and the hospitality market size in Huntington.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Huntington for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby neighborhoods show some variation in wages for this position:
- Downtown Huntington: $15.50 per hour
- Southside: $17.60 per hour
Servers in Southside tend to earn the highest pay compared to Downtown Huntington, possibly reflecting the clientele and restaurant types there.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Huntington?
Several factors affect how much a Fine Dining Server earns in Huntington, including:
- Experience: More experienced servers command higher wages and tend to receive better tips.
- Skills: Knowledge of fine dining etiquette, wine pairings, and menu details enhances earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and luxury hotels often pay more and generate better tips.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer differential pay or increased tipping opportunities.
- Local Economy: Economic vitality and tourism flow in Huntington impact restaurant revenues and server salaries.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Huntington
To pursue a career as a Fine Dining Server in Huntington, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Acquire the West Virginia Food Handler's Card which is required for all food service workers.
- Complete Hospitality Training: Enroll in programs like the Mountwest Community & Technical College Culinary Arts Program for comprehensive training in culinary skills, which supports fine dining knowledge.
- Gain Hospitality Management Education: Consider the Marshall University Hospitality Management Program to develop skills relevant to restaurant service management.
- Earn Responsible Alcohol Service Certification: The TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) Certification is recommended to serve alcohol responsibly and manage challenging situations.
- Build Customer Service Experience: Hands-on work in food service roles helps develop the skills necessary for fine dining service.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Huntington
Several well-known restaurant chains and local establishments frequently seek skilled Fine Dining Servers:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Lobster
- Bob Evans Restaurants
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Huntington Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically find employment in various types of food service environments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer the highest salary and tipping potential due to the upscale clientele and premium service.
- Casual Dining: Earnings tend to be moderate but can offer steady schedules and benefits.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide consistent work opportunities, sometimes with added perks tied to hospitality sectors.
- Private Clubs and Event Venues: Often pay premium wages for experienced servers with discretion and professionalism.
The diversity of venues allows Fine Dining Servers to choose positions that match their career goals and salary expectations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Huntington for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in careers related to Fine Dining Server, here are some similar roles to explore:
Related positions include Banquet Server, Server, and Bartender, all requiring strong customer service skills and offering various earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Huntington
Fine Dining Servers in Huntington should stay informed about labor laws and tax obligations to ensure fair treatment and proper compliance.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for national standards on wages and working conditions.
- Check the West Virginia state labor laws and employment information for state-specific regulations and worker rights.
- For local information and resources, visit the Local government site for Huntington, WV.