Valet Salary in Des Moines, IA
Valets in Des Moines, IA, 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 Des Moines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy increase in job opportunities in the hospitality and service sectors within the area.
How Much Does a Valet Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Valet in Des Moines varies based on experience and employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Valets in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Yes, Valets often earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the location and clientele, significantly augmenting their overall earnings.
Valet Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Valets earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, or roughly $30,160.00 per year.
In comparison, Valets in Des Moines earn slightly less than the national average, with an hourly rate of $13.90 and an annual salary of $28,912.00.
This difference may be influenced by local economic factors and the cost of living in Des Moines.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Valets
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Valets:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- West Des Moines: $17.60 per hour
Valets working in West Des Moines can expect to earn higher wages compared to Downtown and the city center, offering greater compensation for skilled service.
What Influences a Valet’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several key factors affect how much a Valet can earn in Des Moines:
- Experience: More experienced Valets command higher wages due to familiarity with customer service and vehicle handling.
- Skills: Defensive driving and customer interaction skills can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Luxury hotels and high-end restaurants typically pay more than casual dining or event venues.
- Tips: Locations with wealthier clientele often offer more generous tipping opportunities.
- Certifications: Having a valid driver’s license and additional certifications like Defensive Driving can improve employability and salary.
How To Become a Valet in Des Moines
To pursue a career as a Valet in Des Moines, consider the following steps:
- Obtain a Valid Driver's License: A legal requirement for operating customer vehicles.
- Defensive Driving Certification: Enhances driving safety skills, making candidates more attractive to employers.
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs such as those offered by Des Moines Area Community College in hospitality management include valet training.
- Customer Service Courses: Iowa Culinary Institute offers courses relevant to hospitality and customer interaction, which can be beneficial.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level customer service roles can provide useful experience before transitioning to valet duties.
Top Employers Hiring Valets in Des Moines
Some of the top employers looking for Valets in Des Moines include:
- The Des Moines Marriott Downtown
- Embassy Suites by Hilton Des Moines Downtown
- The Renaissance Des Moines Savery Hotel
Establishments That Valets in Des Moines Work At
Valets typically work at various types of establishments:
- Hotels: Often provide steady employment with balance of salary and tips.
- Restaurants: Particularly mid to high-end venues may offer higher tips.
- Event Venues: Valets here often work busy periods but may experience seasonal employment.
- Casual and Fast Casual Locations: Usually have lower wages and limited tip opportunities.
The type of establishment often impacts total compensation, with luxury and busy venues paying more due to increased service demands.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Valets
If you are interested in similar hospitality careers related to the Valet position, the following roles may be worth exploring:
These include Bellhop, Food Delivery Driver, and Receptionist positions, which involve customer service and hospitality skills similar to those of Valets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Valets in Des Moines
It is crucial for Valets to be informed about labor laws and tax obligations.
- Iowa Workforce Development offers comprehensive information on state employment laws and worker rights.
- The U.S. Department of Labor provides details on federal labor laws, wage standards, and workplace regulations.