Fine Dining Server Salary in Rockford, IL
Fine Dining Servers in Rockford, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The role of a Fine Dining Server is experiencing positive job growth at around 5% per year, indicating an expanding demand for skilled hospitality professionals in Rockford and the surrounding areas.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Rockford, IL?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Rockford varies based on experience and skill level. Here is a breakdown of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.28 | $411.20 | $1,779.47 | $21,344.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.85 | $1,034.00 | $4,464.67 | $53,768.00 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Rockford Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Rockford, servers can expect to earn around an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income daily and annually.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Rockford vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of about $21.14 per hour, translating to approximately $43,971.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Fine Dining Servers in Rockford earn less, with an average hourly wage of $15.00 and an annual salary of $31,200.00. This difference can be due to variations in local cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rockford for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer slightly higher wages for Fine Dining Servers:
- Downtown Rockford: $18.00 per hour
- East Rockford: $17.00 per hour
Working in these neighborhoods could increase earning potential for Fine Dining Servers compared to other parts of Rockford.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Rockford?
Several factors affect how much a Fine Dining Server can earn in Rockford:
- Experience and Expertise: Servers with extensive knowledge of wine, menu items, and expert customer service skills tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale and renowned fine dining restaurants often pay more and provide better tipping opportunities than casual eateries.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might offer higher pay or more generous tips due to higher customer volume.
- Local Economy and Demand: Areas with more tourists or affluent clientele tend to offer better compensation.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Rockford
Launching a career as a Fine Dining Server in Rockford can be made easier by following these steps:
- Complete professional training such as the Rock Valley College Culinary Arts Program, which includes fine dining service techniques to sharpen your skills.
- Obtain certifications like the Illinois Food Handler Certification, mandatory for all food service employees in Illinois.
- Consider additional certifications such as the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification to master responsible alcohol service.
- Seek workshops and professional growth opportunities from organizations like the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Rockford
Fine Dining Servers looking for employment opportunities in Rockford can explore job openings at these popular establishments:
- Giovanni’s Ristorante Italiano
- The Norwegian
- Prairie Street Brewing Co.
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Rockford Work At
Fine Dining Servers primarily work in establishments such as:
- Fine dining restaurants: Provide the highest wages and significant tipping potential due to the upscale clientele and full-service experience.
- Casual dining establishments: Offer moderate pay; however, tips are usually less generous than fine dining.
- Hotels and resorts: Can offer competitive wages and additional perks, depending on the venue.
- Catering services: Sometimes employ fine dining servers for special events, offering varied pay depending on the client and event scale.
The type of establishment strongly influences overall earnings, with fine dining venues generally leading in compensation and tip opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rockford for Fine Dining Servers
If you're interested in roles similar to Fine Dining Server, consider exploring these related hospitality positions that can offer different paths or growth opportunities:
These include Banquet Server, Server, and Waiter/Waitress roles which share similar customer service and hospitality duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Rockford
Fine Dining Servers should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understand their employment rights.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and wage information for comprehensive national employment standards.
- Consult the State of Illinois official website for employment regulations to understand state-specific rules and requirements.