Fine Dining Server Salary in Mesa, AZ
Fine Dining Servers in Mesa, AZ, earn approximately $24.71 per hour, which translates to about $988.40 per week, $4,283.07 per month, and $51,396.80 per year.
The career outlook for Fine Dining Servers in Mesa is positive, with a projected growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a healthy demand and expanding opportunities in the fine dining hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Mesa, AZ?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Mesa varies based on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.28 | $411.20 | $1,778.93 | $21,334.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.14 | $845.60 | $3,652.53 | $43,971.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $43.47 | $1,738.80 | $7,524.80 | $90,225.60 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Mesa Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn a significant portion of their income through tips. It's common to earn an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, which can considerably increase overall earnings, reflecting the high-touch service expected in fine dining establishments.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn about $21.14 per hour, which amounts to approximately $43,971.20 per year.
Compared to this, servers in Mesa, AZ earn a higher average hourly rate of $24.71 and an annual salary of $51,396.80, indicating that Mesa offers competitive wages in this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mesa for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Fine Dining Servers:
- Scottsdale: $26.33 per hour
- Phoenix: $32.09 per hour
Living closer to Scottsdale or Phoenix may provide Fine Dining Servers with higher pay opportunities compared to Mesa.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Mesa?
Several factors influence a Fine Dining Server's earnings in Mesa, including:
- Experience: Servers with more years of experience and a history of excellent service can command higher wages and receive better tips.
- Skills and Training: Knowledge of wine service, menu details, and formal training enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or luxury restaurants typically pay higher base salaries and tips compared to casual dining venues.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might offer higher tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Customer Base: Restaurants in affluent neighborhoods generally have clientele that tip more generously.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Mesa
Starting a career as a Fine Dining Server in Mesa requires a combination of skills, experience, and certifications:
- Enroll in a Culinary Arts Program at Mesa Community College, which offers comprehensive training in culinary techniques, food safety, and restaurant management, providing a strong foundation for fine dining service roles.
- Consider a Hospitality Management Program at Arizona State University that covers hospitality operations, service standards, and customer relations important for excelling in fine dining environments.
- Obtain the Arizona Food Handler's Card, a mandatory certification for all food service workers ensuring knowledge of food safety practices.
- Pursue the Certified Sommelier credential offered by the Court of Master Sommeliers for enhanced expertise in wine service, which is highly valued in fine dining.
- Gain practical restaurant experience by starting in entry-level server positions or as busser to improve service skills and learn fine dining protocols.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Mesa
Prominent establishments in Mesa hiring Fine Dining Servers include:
- The Capital Grille
- Fogo de Chão
- Different Pointe of View
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Mesa Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically work in upscale restaurants where attention to detail and high-quality service are essential.
These include:
- Fine dining restaurants: Offer the highest earning potential due to higher base pay and substantial tips.
- Catering and event venues: Often provide lucrative opportunities for servers during special events.
- Luxury hotels and resorts: May pay competitive salaries with added benefits related to the service experience.
In contrast, servers in casual or fast casual restaurants generally earn lower wages and fewer tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mesa for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in careers similar to Fine Dining Server, you might consider related roles such as:
These include Bartender, Maitre D, and Sommelier positions — roles that involve close customer interaction and elevated hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Mesa
Fine Dining Servers should be aware of pertinent labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and comply with legal obligations.
- Visit the official website of the State of Arizona for comprehensive information on state employment laws and worker protections.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor's site provides guidance on wage rules, overtime, and fair labor practices.