Server Salary in Wilmington, DE
Servers in Wilmington, DE, earn approximately $17.43 per hour, which translates to about $697.20 per week, $3,021.20 per month, and $36,254.40 per year.
The demand for Servers in Wilmington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for skilled service professionals in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Server Make in Wilmington, DE?
The salary of a Server in Wilmington, DE, can vary depending on experience and the specific employer. Here is a breakdown of the earnings across different experience 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 Wilmington Earn Tips?
Yes, Servers typically receive tips, which can significantly increase their income. In Wilmington, many Servers earn an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, providing a substantial boost to their base salary and overall compensation.
Server Salary in Wilmington vs. National Average
Nationally, Servers earn an average of about $17.43 per hour, or roughly $36,254.40 per year.
In Wilmington, Servers earn comparable wages on an hourly basis and annual salary, aligning closely with the national average. This reflects Wilmington's competitive hospitality market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wilmington for Servers
Exploring nearby areas, you can find varying pay rates for Servers:
- New Castle: $24.74 per hour
- Middletown: $20.06 per hour
Servers working in New Castle have the potential to earn significantly more than in Wilmington, while Middletown also offers above-average wages.
What Influences a Server’s Salary in Wilmington?
Several factors contribute to the variation in a Server’s salary in Wilmington:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Servers with strong interpersonal and multitasking skills tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants often pay more than casual dining or fast food outlets, influencing base salary and tips.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts can come with increased tips, enhancing total compensation.
- Certifications: Holding certifications related to food safety or responsible alcohol service can improve job prospects and pay.
How To Become a Server in Wilmington
Starting a career as a Server in Wilmington involves several steps to build a solid foundation:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Enrolling in culinary or hospitality programs like the Delaware Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program can provide valuable skills.
- Consider Hospitality Management Education: The University of Delaware Hospitality Business Management Program offers relevant courses that help develop a broader understanding of restaurant operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are nationally recognized and beneficial for employment.
- Responsible Alcohol Service: Completing the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification helps Servers handle alcohol responsibly and safely, making them more competitive candidates.
- Build Experience: Starting as a server assistant or in entry-level positions helps develop customer service skills essential for the role.
Top Employers Hiring Servers in Wilmington
Wilmington has several well-known establishments actively hiring Servers, including:
- The Melting Pot Restaurant
- Red Robin
- Santa Fe Mexican Grill
Establishments That Servers in Wilmington Work At
Servers in Wilmington typically find work across various types of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer stable employment with moderate wages; tips depend on the clientele.
- Fast Casual Venues: Usually feature faster service and may offer lower base pay but higher volume of customers.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Servers here tend to earn the highest wages and tips due to the upscale environment and higher check averages.
- Bars and Clubs: Income can vary greatly with tips being a major component of earnings.
The choice of establishment greatly affects salary potential and earning opportunities through tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wilmington for Servers
If you are interested in roles related to serving, consider similar positions that also play important roles in hospitality.
These include Fine Dining Server, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress—roles closely related to the Server position, often with overlapping skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Servers in Wilmington
Servers in Wilmington should be familiar with federal and local labor laws as well as tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor's website for comprehensive information on employment laws and workers' rights.
- The Delaware Department of Labor offers specific state-level labor standards and employment resources.
- For city-specific rules and resources, check the City of Wilmington's official website.