Fine Dining Server Salary in Wilmington, NC
Fine Dining Servers in Wilmington, NC, earn approximately $16.82 per hour, which translates to about $672.80 per week, $2,915.47 per month, and $34,985.60 per year.
The demand for Fine Dining Servers in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, suggesting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Fine Dining Server Make in Wilmington, NC?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Wilmington varies depending on experience and skill level; here is a general breakdown by experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.90 | $476.00 | $2,063.33 | $24,752.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $23.86 | $954.40 | $4,110.67 | $49,548.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $47.84 | $1,913.60 | $8,287.73 | $99,507.20 |
Do Fine Dining Servers in Wilmington Earn Tips?
Fine Dining Servers typically earn a significant portion of their income from tips. They can expect to earn an extra $10 to $20 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant and clientele, potentially boosting their overall earnings significantly.
Fine Dining Server Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Fine Dining Servers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which is about $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, those in Wilmington earn approximately $16.82 per hour and $34,985.60 annually, indicating that the pay is slightly above the national average.
This difference reflects factors such as local demand, cost of living, and the prominence of Upscale dining in the Wilmington area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Fine Dining Servers
Nearby areas offering competitive wages for Fine Dining Servers include:
- Greensboro: $41.72 per hour
- Southport: $31.74 per hour
Servers seeking top pay near Wilmington might consider Greensboro, where the hourly pay is substantially higher.
What Influences a Fine Dining Server’s Salary in Wilmington?
The salary of a Fine Dining Server in Wilmington can be influenced by several factors:
- Experience and Customer Service Skills: Servers with more experience and polished interpersonal skills often earn higher tips and better base pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale and high-profile restaurants tend to pay better, both in base salary and tips, compared to casual dining venues.
- Shift and Location: Servers working evening shifts or in busy tourist areas might see increased earnings.
- Certifications: Having certifications related to food handling and alcohol service can enhance employability and salary.
How To Become a Fine Dining Server in Wilmington
Starting a career as a Fine Dining Server in Wilmington involves several steps to build the necessary skills and credentials.
Education and certifications can greatly improve job prospects. Consider culinary or hospitality management programs such as the Cape Fear Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of North Carolina Wilmington Hospitality Management Program, which offer training relevant to service roles.
Additionally, obtain important certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the North Carolina Alcohol Beverage Control Commission Permit, which are often required for serving food and alcohol in the state.
Hands-on experience through internships, entry-level restaurant positions, or hospitality internships can also build practical skills and professional connections.
Top Employers Hiring Fine Dining Servers in Wilmington
Some of the top employers looking for skilled Fine Dining Servers in Wilmington include:
- Smoke on the Water
- Bonefish Grill
- Applebee's
Establishments That Fine Dining Servers in Wilmington Work At
Fine Dining Servers work primarily in establishments that focus on upmarket dining experiences. These include:
- Upscale Restaurants and Fine Dining Establishments: These venues usually offer the highest salaries and tips due to the nature of the clientele and service expectations.
- Hotels and Resort Dining Rooms: Often a good source of employment with potential for consistent tips and benefits.
- Banquet and Catering Services: Servers can work events and private functions, which may come with varied earning potential.
The type and prestige of the establishment can greatly affect both the base salary and the volume of tips Fine Dining Servers receive.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Fine Dining Servers
If you are interested in similar roles that share skills and responsibilities with Fine Dining Servers, consider these related career paths:
These include Banquet Server, Server, and Bartender positions, all requiring excellence in customer service and hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Fine Dining Servers in Wilmington
Fine Dining Servers in Wilmington should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and financial obligations.
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific labor laws relating to North Carolina, visit the North Carolina Department of Labor website.
- Tax information and resources are available from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website.