Server Salary in Clarksville, TN
Servers in Clarksville, TN, earn approximately $15.07 per hour, which equates to about $602.80 per week, $2,612.13 per month, and $31,345.60 per year.
The demand for Servers in Clarksville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality and food service sectors.
How Much Does a Server Make in Clarksville, TN?
The salary of a Server in Clarksville varies depending on experience and employer, but here is an approximate breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.61 | $384.40 | $1,663.47 | $19,961.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.07 | $602.80 | $2,612.13 | $31,345.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.64 | $945.60 | $4,072.80 | $50,611.20 |
Do Servers in Clarksville Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Clarksville, a Server can make about $10 per hour extra in tips on average, which significantly supplements their overall earnings and is an important part of their income.
Server Salary in Clarksville vs. National Average
At the national level, Servers earn approximately $17.53 per hour and about $36,462.40 annually.
Compared to this, Servers in Clarksville earn a bit less on average at $15.07 per hour and $31,345.60 yearly. This difference reflects local economic conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clarksville for Servers
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher pay for Servers:
- Downtown Clarksville: $16.50 per hour
- St. Bethlehem: $15.80 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Clarksville can expect slightly better hourly wages compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Clarksville?
There are several important factors that influence how much a Server can earn in Clarksville:
- Experience: More experienced Servers tend to earn higher base pay and can get better tips due to superior service skills.
- Skills: Strong interpersonal and multitasking skills improve earning potential through tips and promotions.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or busy chain eateries typically offer higher wages and tipping opportunities than casual or fast-food places.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often yield more tips than daytime shifts.
- Local Economy: Areas with higher tourism or business activity often have a thriving hospitality sector with better pay.
How To Become a Server in Clarksville
Starting a career as a Server in Clarksville is accessible through several straightforward steps.
First, gaining some formal education or training helps build a foundation. Programs like the Austin Peay State University Hospitality Management Program offer courses in hospitality management that provide valuable knowledge for aspiring Servers.
The Clarksville Montgomery County Career Center also provides food service and hospitality training programs designed to equip individuals with the skills necessary for server positions.
Additionally, obtaining certifications can boost employability. For instance, the Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit is mandatory for Servers working in establishments serving alcohol, ensuring they understand responsible beverage service.
The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is a nationally recognized credential focusing on food safety, which many employers prefer for Server candidates.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Clarksville
Several well-known establishments in Clarksville regularly hire Servers, including:
- Applebee's
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- Waffle House
- Rafferty's
Establishments That Servers in Clarksville Work At
Servers in Clarksville find opportunities across a variety of establishments including casual dining, fast casual restaurants, and fine dining venues.
Casual and fast casual restaurants often have higher turnover but may offer more flexible scheduling.
Fine dining establishments usually provide higher wages and more substantial earning potential from tips, reflecting the upscale dining experience.
The salary of a Server can vary significantly depending on the establishment’s level of formality, pace, and clientele.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clarksville for Servers
If you are interested in exploring roles related to Server, consider these similar careers that also operate in the hospitality sector:
These include Bartender, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress positions, all of which share overlapping skill sets and can offer various earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Clarksville
Servers should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and obligations in the workplace.
- Visit the official State of Tennessee website for detailed information on labor laws and employment regulations specific to the state.
- For federal labor laws and worker rights, check the U.S. Department of Labor's official site, which provides comprehensive resources.