Server Salary in Odessa, TX
Servers in Odessa, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $15.62 per hour, which translates to about $624.80 per week, $2,707.47 per month, and $32,489.60 per year.
The demand for Servers in Odessa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job availability in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Server Make in Odessa, TX?
The salary of a Server in Odessa can vary depending on their level of experience, the type of establishment, and tipped earnings. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.66 | $466.40 | $2,016.27 | $24,252.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.62 | $624.80 | $2,707.47 | $32,489.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.92 | $836.80 | $3,599.47 | $43,513.60 |
Do Servers in Odessa Earn Tips?
Servers typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. In Odessa, Servers can expect to make an extra $10 to $15 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their overall income, sometimes almost doubling it during busy shifts.
Server Salary in Odessa vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of around $17.50 per hour, which sums up to approximately $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, servers in Odessa earn slightly less hourly at about $15.62 per hour and an annual salary around $32,489.60. This difference may reflect variations in local cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Odessa for Servers
When considering nearby areas, server salaries can be somewhat higher:
- Downtown Odessa: $16.50 per hour
- University Park: $17.00 per hour
Servers working in places like University Park may enjoy better pay, possibly due to higher-end establishments or more affluent clientele.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Odessa?
Several important factors can influence how much a Server earns in Odessa:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced servers with excellent customer service skills tend to earn higher wages and larger tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants generally pay more and provide greater tipping opportunities than fast casual or family-style venues.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Servers working evening shifts, weekends, or holidays may receive shift differentials or have access to higher tip volumes.
- Certifications: Some employers value servers who have completed responsible alcohol service training, such as the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification, which may influence pay.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Economic factors in Odessa affect overall salary levels and job availability.
How To Become a Server in Odessa
Becoming a Server in Odessa involves a combination of training, certifications, and experience:
- Gain Food Service Knowledge: Consider enrolling in programs such as the Odessa College Culinary Arts Program or the Midland College Hospitality Management Program to build foundational skills.
- Obtain Required Food Safety Licenses: The Texas Food Handler Certification is mandatory for all food service employees.
- Complete Alcohol Service Certification: If you intend to serve alcoholic beverages, acquiring the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Certification is essential.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills are crucial for success as a Server.
- Start with Entry-Level Positions: Many servers begin their careers working as hostesses or bus persons to learn the ropes and move into serving roles.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Odessa
Several well-known restaurant chains frequently employ servers in Odessa, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- Longhorn Steakhouse
Establishments That Servers in Odessa Work At
Servers in Odessa typically find employment in a wide variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues usually have steady business and moderate tip averages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: While pay may be consistent, tips are usually lower compared to full-service dining.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Servers here often earn higher base wages and receive more substantial tips due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and Nightclubs: These locations can offer lucrative tip opportunities but may require specialized knowledge of alcohol service.
The type of establishment directly impacts a Server's overall earnings potential through wage rates and tipping volume.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Odessa for Servers
If you're considering roles similar to serving, here are some related hospitality jobs in Odessa that might interest you:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Bartender positions, each involving customer service roles with varying pay and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Odessa
Servers should be aware of key labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Odessa:
- Visit the Texas Workforce Commission for state-specific workforce development resources and labor regulations.
- Refer to the U.S. Department of Labor for federal labor laws, wage standards, and workplace rights.