Fine Dining Server Salary in Thornton, CO
Fine Dining Servers in Thornton, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $25.93 per hour, which translates to about $1,037.20 per week, $4,494.53 per month, and $53,934.40 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Thornton is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an upward trend and a healthy job market for this profession in the area.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Thornton, CO?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Thornton varies depending on experience and specific employers. Below is a breakdown by experience level to give an overview of potential earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.93 | $597.20 | $2,585.07 | $31,006.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $25.93 | $1,037.20 | $4,494.53 | $53,934.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $45.06 | $1,802.40 | $7,816.80 | $93,724.80 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Thornton Earn Tips?
Yes, Fine Dining Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Thornton, a Fine Dining Server can often expect to make an extra $15 to $25 per hour in tips, greatly increasing their overall earnings during shifts, especially in busy upscale establishments.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Thornton vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of around $21.14 per hour, which amounts to about $43,971.20 annually.
Compared to this, Fine Dining Servers in Thornton earn a significantly higher average wage of $25.93 per hour and $53,934.40 annually. This difference reflects the local market conditions, cost of living, and demand for skilled service staff in Thornton's fine dining scene.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Thornton for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offer variable pay rates for Fine Dining Servers:
- Thornton: $25.93 per hour
- Denver: $21.23 per hour
Thornton stands out as a higher-paying location compared to Denver, making it attractive for job seekers in this profession.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Thornton?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Thornton is influenced by several key factors that can enhance earning potential:
- Experience and Skill Level: Servers with extensive experience, excellent communication skills, and knowledge of fine dining etiquette tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, luxury hotels, and exclusive clubs often pay better wages and offer larger tips.
- Shift Timings: Evening and weekend shifts may include differential pay or higher tips due to increased customer volume.
- Customer Base: Serving affluent clientele typically leads to more generous tipping and higher overall compensation.
- Certifications and Training: Specialized training in food and beverage knowledge, wine service, or alcohol handling can positively affect salary.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Thornton
Starting a career as a Fine Dining Server in Thornton involves several steps to build the necessary skills and credentials:
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Emily Griffith Technical College offer comprehensive training, including fine dining service techniques.
- Pursue Hospitality Management Education: The Hospitality Management Program at Metropolitan State University of Denver provides insight into restaurant operations and management, which is beneficial for advancing in the field.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of proper food safety practices, often required for servers.
- Get Alcohol Service Training: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification trains servers in responsible alcohol service, mandatory in many fine dining establishments.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level serving positions helps develop customer service skills and familiarity with restaurant environments.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Thornton
Several establishments in Thornton regularly seek experienced Fine Dining Servers to join their teams, including:
- Postino WineCafe
- Applebee's
- Parry's Pizzeria & Taphouse
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Thornton Work At
Fine Dining Servers typically find employment across various types of establishments in Thornton:
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These venues offer the highest pay and opportunities for tips, reflecting the skilled nature of the work.
- Upscale Hotels and Resorts: Fine dining service is a key feature here, often accompanied by benefits and career development opportunities.
- Wine Cafés and Specialty Bistros: Focused on beverage and food pairing, these establishments offer specialized work experiences and tips.
- Casual Dining Establishments: While offering less in terms of salary and tips, they provide valuable experience for newcomers.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly impact a Fine Dining Server's overall compensation and career growth opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Thornton for Fine Dining Servers
If you're interested in roles similar to Fine Dining Server, consider the following related hospitality careers that offer varying responsibilities and salary ranges.
These include Banquet Server, Bartender, and Server, which involve related skills in hospitality and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Thornton
Fine Dining Servers should be aware of federal and state labor laws, as well as tax obligations relevant to their employment.
- For comprehensive information on federal labor laws and wage regulations, you can visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Colorado-specific labor laws and employment resources are available on the Colorado Department of Labor and Employment website.