Valet Salary in Knoxville, TN
Valets in Knoxville, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $15.68 per hour, which translates to about $627.20 per week, $2,717.87 per month, and $32,614.40 per year.
The demand for Valets in Knoxville is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for those pursuing a career in this field in the region.
How Much Does a Valet Make in Knoxville, TN?
The salary of a Valet in Knoxville can vary depending 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) | $13.14 | $525.60 | $2,274.40 | $27,302.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.68 | $627.20 | $2,717.87 | $32,614.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.72 | $748.80 | $3,241.60 | $38,937.60 |
Do Valets in Knoxville Earn Tips?
Valets usually earn tips as part of their income, often receiving an extra $10 per hour in tips depending on the location and volume of customers. This can significantly increase their total earnings.
Valet Salary in Knoxville vs. National Average
Nationally, Valets earn an average of around $15.68 per hour, translating to about $32,614.40 per year.
In Knoxville, Valets earn about the same as the national average, with competitive hourly wages and annual salaries reflecting the local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Knoxville for Valets
When looking at nearby areas, Valet salaries differ slightly:
- Downtown Knoxville: $16.50 per hour
- West Knoxville: $17.00 per hour
Valets working in West Knoxville are likely to earn the highest wages in the area, followed closely by Downtown Knoxville.
What Influences a Valet’s Salary in Knoxville?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Valet in Knoxville:
- Experience and Driving Skills: More experienced Valets with a safe driving record tend to earn higher wages.
- Customer Service Abilities: Strong interpersonal and communication skills can lead to better tips and higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Valets working at luxury hotels or high-end restaurants typically earn more compared to those at smaller establishments.
- Work Hours and Shift Patterns: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with additional pay or tips.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with high tourism or business traffic may offer better compensation to attract skilled Valets.
How To Become a Valet in Knoxville
Starting a career as a Valet in Knoxville involves several important steps:
- Obtain a Valid Driver's License: A current and valid driver's license is mandatory for all Valet positions in Knoxville.
- Complete Defensive Driving Course: Provided by the Tennessee Department of Safety, this course improves driving skills and safety awareness, which is beneficial for Valet drivers.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Programs like the Customer Service Excellence Program offered by Pellissippi State Community College can enhance interpersonal and communication abilities essential for Valet services.
- Get CPR Certification: Some employers prefer Valets to have CPR certification to handle emergencies effectively.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Look for entry-level positions to learn the ropes and improve professional skills.
Top Employers Hiring Valets in Knoxville
Knoxville’s key employers looking to hire Valets include:
- Towne Park
- Metropolis
- Parking Management Company
- Toyota/Lexus of Knoxville
Establishments That Valets in Knoxville Work At
Valets typically work at various establishments including:
- Hotels and Resorts: Often higher-paying, especially luxury brands.
- Restaurants and Event Venues: Salaries vary by prestige and clientele, with upscale locations offering better pay.
- Hospitals and Medical Centers: Stable employment but generally moderate wages.
- Parking Garages and Commercial Centers: These may offer consistent hours but lower wage scales.
The type of establishment can largely affect a Valet’s total compensation due to differing pay scales and opportunities for tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Knoxville for Valets
If you are interested in careers similar to Valet, consider exploring these related positions:
These include Bellhop, Food Delivery Driver, and Receptionist, each involving customer service and operational roles within hospitality and service industries.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Valets in Knoxville
Valets working in Knoxville should be aware of the following resources for labor laws and tax regulations:
- Visit the Official website of the State of Tennessee for labor laws and employment regulations.
- Check the Official website of the City of Knoxville for local employment and business regulations.