Fine Dining Server Salary in Joliet, IL
Fine Dining Servers in Joliet, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $22.84 per hour, which translates to about $913.60 per week, $3,958.93 per month, and $47,507.20 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Joliet is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and an expanding hospitality sector in the area.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Joliet, IL?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Joliet varies based on experience and employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.93 | $637.20 | $2,757.20 | $33,086.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.50 | $780.00 | $3,380.00 | $40,560.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.86 | $954.40 | $4,118.13 | $49,541.60 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Joliet Earn Tips?
Fine Dining Servers typically earn a significant portion of their income through tips. In Joliet, it is common for Fine Dining Servers to earn an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, which can substantially increase overall earnings.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Joliet vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of about $21.14 per hour, which amounts to roughly $43,971.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Joliet earn slightly more hourly and annually, making Joliet a competitive area for this profession.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Joliet for Fine Dining Servers
Within the Joliet area, some neighborhoods offer higher pay rates for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown Joliet: $24.50 per hour
- Cathedral Area: $23.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods can provide enhanced earning opportunities compared to other parts of Joliet.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Joliet?
Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Fine Dining Servers with excellent service skills generally earn higher wages and better tips.
Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining establishments typically offer better pay and tipping potential than casual dining venues.
Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with higher tip volumes and shift differentials.
Customer Volume and Location: Servers working in busy or affluent areas often see greater tips and compensation.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Joliet
Becoming a Fine Dining Server in Joliet involves several steps to develop the necessary skills and credentials.
The Joliet Junior College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive training in culinary skills, including fine dining service techniques, which can enhance employability.
The Illinois Institute of Art – Chicago provides specialized courses in hospitality management and fine dining service, further preparing candidates for this career.
Obtaining food service certifications is important:
- Illinois Food Handler Certification: Mandatory for all food service employees ensuring knowledge of safe food handling.
- TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification: Recommended for servers to responsibly serve alcohol and handle challenging situations.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Joliet
Several reputable employers in Joliet are known for hiring Fine Dining Servers, including:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- T.G.I. Fridays
- Quest Food Management Services
- Outback Steakhouse
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Joliet Work At
Fine Dining Servers find employment at a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer the highest pay and tips due to upscale clientele and refined service expectations.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Generally lower pay and tips compared to fine dining, but often with more consistent shifts.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: Can provide varied compensation, sometimes with benefits.
- Event Venues and Catering Companies: Pay may vary based on event frequency and clientele.
The type of establishment significantly influences both base salary and tipping potential for Fine Dining Servers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Joliet for Fine Dining Servers
If you’re interested in careers related to Fine Dining Server, here are a few similar roles you might consider:
This includes roles such as Banquet Server, Server, and Porter, which share similar job functions within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Joliet
Fine Dining Servers should be aware of various local, state, and federal regulations that govern labor and wages.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for information on labor laws and wage regulations.
- The State of Illinois official website offers comprehensive resources on state labor laws and employment standards.
- For local regulations and employment resources, see the City of Joliet’s official website.