Server Salary in Joliet, IL
Servers in Joliet, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.76 per hour, which translates to about $710.40 per week, $3,078.40 per month, and $36,940.80 per year.
The demand for Servers in Joliet is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for those seeking employment in the food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Server Make in Joliet, IL?
The salary of a Server in Joliet depends on various factors including experience and the type of establishment. Here's a closer look at earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.70 | $468.00 | $2,028.00 | $24,336.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.76 | $710.40 | $3,078.40 | $36,940.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.95 | $1,078.00 | $4,648.67 | $55,956.00 |
Do Servers in Joliet Earn Tips?
As a position that typically involves direct customer service, Servers often earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Joliet, a Server can expect to earn an extra $10 or more per hour in tips, which can significantly boost overall income.
Server Salary in Joliet vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average wage of about $17.76 per hour and approximately $36,940.80 per year.
The average Server salary in Joliet aligns closely with these national figures, indicating the local market provides competitive pay matching the broader industry.
This comparison suggests that Servers in Joliet can expect wage levels consistent with nationwide trends for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Joliet for Servers
Nearby areas to Joliet offer the following average hourly pay rates for Servers:
- Downtown Joliet: $18.50 per hour
- West Joliet: $17.00 per hour
Servers working in Downtown Joliet tend to earn more per hour compared to other local areas, reflecting possibly busier or more upscale establishments.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Joliet?
Multiple factors contribute to the salary of a Server in Joliet:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Servers with advanced customer service and upselling skills tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants generally offer better pay and tipping opportunities than casual or fast food venues.
- Shift Timings and Volume: Working peak hours, weekends, or in high-traffic venues can increase earning potential due to higher tips.
- Location: Establishments in busier or more affluent areas typically pay more.
- Certifications and Training: Having relevant food safety and alcohol service certifications can improve job prospects and pay.
How To Become a Server in Joliet
Becoming a successful Server in Joliet involves several steps and credentials:
- Complete Food Handler Training: Required by Illinois regulations to ensure safe food handling practices.
- Obtain BASSET Certification: Mandatory in Illinois for those serving alcoholic beverages, ensuring responsible alcohol service.
- Consider Local Programs: Programs like the Joliet Junior College Culinary Arts Program and the University of St. Francis Hospitality Management Program offer comprehensive training that can enhance skills and employability.
- Gain Customer Service Experience: Working in hospitality or retail can help develop interpersonal and communication skills vital for Servers.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Joliet
Some of the prominent employers looking for skilled Servers in Joliet include:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- T.G.I. Fridays
- Quest Food Management Services
- Outback Steakhouse
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Servers in Joliet Work At
Servers in Joliet find employment across various types of establishments, each influencing salary and tip potential:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady employment with moderate pay and tipping.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Typically provide higher base pay and more generous tips due to affluent clientele.
- Fast Casual and Family Restaurants: May offer lower base pay and fewer tipping opportunities.
- Bars and Nightclubs: Can offer high tips especially during busy hours and weekends.
The type of establishment impacts not only base salary but also the volume and regularity of tips received.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Joliet for Servers
If you are interested in roles related to Server positions, consider these similar careers that share skills and responsibilities:
These include roles such as Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress, which all involve direct customer service and interaction similar to the Server position.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Joliet
Understanding labor laws and taxation is crucial for Servers working in Joliet. Key resources include:
- Information on federal labor laws is available at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State employment laws and services for Illinois can be found on the Illinois Department of Employment Security website.
- The City of Joliet official website provides local regulations and resources for workers and residents.