Valet Salary in Chattanooga, TN
Valets in Chattanooga, TN, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Valets in Chattanooga is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an encouraging outlook for job opportunities and career development in this role within the region.
How Much Does a Valet Make in Chattanooga, TN?
The salary of a Valet in Chattanooga varies depending on the level of experience and employer, but here is an overview of typical earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Valets in Chattanooga Earn Tips?
Valets typically earn tips in addition to their salary, often receiving an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer volume. These tips can make a significant difference in overall compensation.
Valet Salary in Chattanooga vs. National Average
Nationally, Valets earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, or about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Valets in Chattanooga earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 per hour, with an annual salary slightly below the national yearly average of $28,912. This difference may be influenced by regional cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chattanooga for Valets
Valet salaries in nearby neighborhoods vary as follows:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- North Shore: $17.60 per hour
Those working in North Shore tend to earn the highest pay rates for Valets near Chattanooga, while Downtown offers competitive wages as well.
What Influences a Valet’s Salary in Chattanooga?
Several key factors impact how much a Valet can earn in Chattanooga:
- Experience Level: More experienced Valets command higher wages and may have access to premium positions.
- Skills and Certifications: Holding a Valid Driver's License and certifications like Defensive Driving Certification can increase employability and pay.
- Type of Employer: Valets working for luxury hotels, fine dining restaurants, or high-traffic venues often enjoy better compensation and tipping potential.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts may result in higher earnings due to increased demand.
- Location: Urban centers or popular tourist areas can offer higher salaries because of greater customer volume.
How To Become a Valet in Chattanooga
Becoming a Valet in Chattanooga involves several steps to prepare for the role and improve salary prospects:
- Obtain a Valid Driver's License: This is mandatory for all Valet Attendants to operate customer vehicles safely.
- Consider Defensive Driving Certification: This certification improves driving skills and is preferred by many employers.
- Enhance Hospitality Skills: Enrolling in programs like the Hospitality Management Program at Chattanooga State Community College provides valuable customer service and operational knowledge.
- Improve Sales and Client Relations: The Professional Sales Certificate from University of Tennessee at Chattanooga offers skills useful for client interaction and upselling opportunities.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level positions or internships within parking or hospitality industries can provide hands-on experience.
Top Employers Hiring Valets in Chattanooga
The following companies are known to actively hire Valets in Chattanooga:
- Parking Management Company
- ParkMed
- A1 Valet Trash
Establishments That Valets in Chattanooga Work At
Valets generally find employment at a variety of establishments such as:
- Hotels and Resorts: Often provide higher wages and more consistent tips, especially luxury properties.
- Restaurants (Casual to Fine Dining): Tip earnings vary greatly depending on the clientele and restaurant style.
- Hospitals and Medical Centers: May offer steady employment but lower tipping opportunities.
- Event Venues and Theaters: Special events can bring temporary increases in pay and tips.
The type of establishment influences earnings significantly, with high-end or high-volume places typically offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chattanooga for Valets
If you are considering jobs similar to Valet, here are a few related roles in the hospitality sector:
These include Bellhop, Cashier, and Valet positions, all involving customer service, vehicle handling, or hospitality support duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Valets in Chattanooga
Valets should familiarize themselves with labor laws and tax regulations that impact their work and earnings.
- Visit the State of Tennessee's official website for labor laws and employment resources for localized information on wage standards and employee rights.
- For comprehensive details on federal labor laws and regulations, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor's official website.