Server Salary in Meridian, ID
Servers in Meridian, ID, earn approximately $18.09 per hour, translating to about $723.60 per week, $3,135.60 per month, and $37,627.20 per year.
The demand for Servers in Meridian is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Meridian, ID?
The salary of a Server in Meridian can vary based on experience and establishment, but here’s an overview across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Servers in Meridian Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically earn tips which can significantly boost their income. In Meridian, a Server might earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the restaurant and shift, adding substantial earnings beyond their base pay.
Server Salary in Meridian vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $18.09 per hour and $37,627.20 annually.
Servers in Meridian, ID, earn roughly the same as the national average when considering base salary. Local factors such as cost of living and restaurant demand play a role in keeping pay competitive in Meridian.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Meridian for Servers
Nearby locations offer varied pay rates for Servers:
- Eagle, ID: $25.74 per hour
- Nampa, ID: $20.69 per hour
Servers seeking higher wages might consider opportunities in Eagle or Nampa, which provide more lucrative pay compared to Meridian.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Meridian?
Experience and skills greatly impact earnings, with seasoned Servers able to command higher wages and tips.
Type of establishment matters: upscale dining or fine dining restaurants usually pay more than casual or fast-food settings.
Shift and hours worked also influence income; evening, weekend, and holiday shifts can yield higher tips and sometimes higher base pay.
Certifications and training, such as Alcohol Server Training Permits, may increase employability and salary potential.
How To Become a Server in Meridian
Becoming a Server in Meridian involves several important steps:
- Obtain relevant food safety credentials like the Idaho Food Safety Certification, which is required for food handlers to ensure knowledge of safe practices.
- Acquire an Alcohol Server Training Permit if working in places serving alcohol to comply with local regulation and enhance job prospects.
- Consider enrolling in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at College of Western Idaho, which offers foundational knowledge beneficial in food service careers.
- Hospitality Management Program at Boise State University provides additional education for Servers seeking advancement into supervisory roles.
- Gain experience in entry-level roles at various dining establishments to build skills and a strong work ethic.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Meridian
Several well-known restaurant chains in Meridian actively seek Servers, including:
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Olive Garden
- Red Robin
Establishments That Servers in Meridian Work At
Servers find employment across a range of establishments:
- Casual dining restaurants offer steady hours and moderate base pay with tips.
- Fast casual eateries generally provide quicker shifts but possibly lower tips.
- Fine dining establishments typically pay higher base wages and provide greater tipping opportunities due to upscale service.
- Bars and nightclubs may offer lucrative shift tips but require Alcohol Server Training Permits.
The type of establishment impacts both base salary and tips, influencing overall earnings significantly.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Meridian for Servers
If you're exploring career paths similar to being a Server, consider these roles:
These careers include Waiter/Waitress, Bartender, and Fine Dining Server — all sharing similarity in hospitality service roles with varying salary potentials and skillsets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Meridian
It’s important for Servers to understand applicable labor laws and tax obligations.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- The Idaho Department of Labor offers state-specific employment guidelines.
- Local regulations and resources can be found at the Official City of Meridian Website.