Fine Dining Server Salary in Lowell, MA
Fine Dining Servers in Lowell, MA, in 2026, earn approximately $19.58 per hour, which translates to about $783.20 per week, $3,393.87 per month, and $40,726.40 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Lowell is growing positively at about 5% per year, reflecting an expanding hospitality market focused on upscale dining experiences.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Lowell, MA?
Salary levels for Fine Dining Servers in Lowell vary according to experience and skills, with a wide range of earnings from entry-level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.58 | $783.20 | $3,393.87 | $40,726.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.40 | $1,456.00 | $6,280.00 | $75,360.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Lowell Earn Tips?
Fine Dining Servers typically earn significant tips in addition to their base salary, often making an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips depending on the restaurant's clientele and service volume. This can substantially increase their overall earnings.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Lowell vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn around $21.14 per hour and approximately $43,971.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Lowell earn slightly less, with an hourly wage of $19.58 and an annual salary of about $40,726.40. This gap may reflect local cost of living and market demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lowell for Fine Dining Servers
Some nearby cities offer higher pay rates for Fine Dining Servers:
- Lynnfield: $34.17 per hour
- Needham: $28.03 per hour
Servers commuting to Lynnfield or Needham could benefit from substantially higher earnings compared to Lowell.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Lowell?
Multiple factors affect the salaries of Fine Dining Servers in Lowell:
- Experience and Skill Level: Servers with extensive knowledge of fine dining etiquette and menu details tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and luxury hotels often offer higher base pay and greater tip potential compared to casual eateries.
- Shift Timing and Hours Worked: Working peak dining hours and weekends can increase income through higher tips and shift premiums.
- Certifications and Training: Specialized training or certifications related to wine knowledge or responsible alcohol service can boost earnings.
- Reputation and Customer Base: Serving high-spending clientele usually results in increased tips and better salaries.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Lowell
Starting a career as a Fine Dining Server in Lowell involves several steps that improve your prospects and earning potential.
Obtaining formal training through programs such as the Middlesex Community College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive instruction, including fine dining service techniques.
Expanding your expertise with credentials like the Boston University Metropolitan College Certificate in Wine Studies provides valuable knowledge of wines, enhancing your attractiveness to fine dining employers.
Basic certifications in food safety such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often mandatory, ensuring compliance with health regulations.
Additionally, earning the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification, widely recognized in Massachusetts, enables responsible alcohol service, a common requirement for servers in this region.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Lowell
Some notable employers currently recruiting Fine Dining Servers in Lowell include:
- Eddie V's
- UMass Lowell
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Lowell Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically find employment across various types of establishments:
- High-end Restaurants: These venues offer the best salaries and tip potential due to the premium services and clientele.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Often provide consistent work and opportunities for career advancement with competitive pay.
- Casual Dining: Generally lower pay and tips but may offer easier entry and steadier hours.
- Event Venues and Banquets: Offer seasonal work with varying pay depending on event size and clientele.
The salary varies significantly based on establishment prestige and the level of service required.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lowell for Fine Dining Servers
If interested in roles similar to Fine Dining Server, consider these related hospitality careers:
These careers include Server, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter roles, which share similar work environments and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Lowell
Understanding the labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Fine Dining Servers in Lowell to ensure proper employment rights and compliance.
- Refer to the Massachusetts government website for detailed information on state labor laws, minimum wage, overtime rules, and employee protections.
- The U.S. Department of Labor site provides resources on federal labor laws, wage standards, and workers' rights that apply nationwide.