Valet Salary in Santa Fe, NM
Valets in Santa Fe, NM, earn approximately $15.77 per hour, which amounts to about $630.80 per week, $2,733.47 per month, and $32,801.60 per year.
The demand for Valets in Santa Fe is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in this role within the area.
How Much Does a Valet Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The salary of a Valet in Santa Fe varies with experience and employer, but the following tables provide a breakdown of earnings at different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.37 | $534.80 | $2,317.33 | $27,793.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.77 | $630.80 | $2,733.47 | $32,801.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.42 | $696.80 | $3,015.73 | $36,233.60 |
Do Valets in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Yes, Valets typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. On average, a Valet can make an additional $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the location and clientele, which can considerably boost their overall earnings.
Valet Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Valets earn an average of about $15.38 per hour, equating to roughly $31,990.40 per year.
Compared to the national average, Valets in Santa Fe earn slightly more hourly at $15.77 per hour and yearly at about $32,801.60. This slight premium can be attributed to Santa Fe’s unique hospitality and tourism market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Valet
Nearby neighborhoods offer different pay scales for Valets, such as:
- Downtown: $16.50 per hour
- Railyard District: $17.00 per hour
These areas tend to pay above the city average, likely due to higher traffic at luxury hotels and event venues.
What Influences a Valet’s Salary in Santa Fe?
A few key factors impact how much a Valet can earn in Santa Fe.
- Experience and Driving Skills: More experienced Valets who demonstrate safe and efficient vehicle handling tend to get higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Luxury hotels and resorts often provide better wages and more generous tips compared to smaller venues.
- Shift Timing: Valets working evening or event shifts might earn more due to increased service demand.
- Special Certifications: Certifications such as Defensive Driving or CPR can enhance employability and salary potential.
How To Become a Valet in Santa Fe
Starting a career as a Valet in Santa Fe involves several practical steps.
- Obtain a Valid New Mexico Driver’s License: Essential for legally operating vehicles as a Valet Attendant.
- Complete a Defensive Driving Course: The Defensive Driving Course by New Mexico Department of Transportation improves driving safety and is beneficial for this role.
- Enroll in Hospitality and Tourism Management Program at Santa Fe Community College: This program offers valuable skills in customer service and hospitality operations that are relevant to Valet positions.
- Consider CPR and First Aid Certification: Some employers prefer Valets trained in basic emergency response, which can provide a competitive edge.
Top Employers Hiring Valet in Santa Fe
Leading employers in Santa Fe seeking Valet Attendants include:
- Eldorado Hotel & Spa
- Drury Hotels
- Four Seasons Santa Fe
Establishments That Valet in Santa Fe Work At
Valets in Santa Fe typically find employment at a range of upscale and casual establishments.
- Luxury Hotels and Resorts: These venues offer higher salaries and better tips due to affluent clients and consistent demand.
- Casual Hotels and Motels: Pay tends to be moderate with less tipping potential.
- Event Venues and Casinos: Opportunities here might provide irregular but potentially lucrative shifts especially during busy events.
The salary differences relate mainly to clientele, establishment prestige, and volume of guests served.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Valet
If you are interested in roles similar to Valet, you might consider these related hospitality positions with overlapping skills and requirements.
These include Bellhop, Cashier, and Waiter/Waitress positions, each requiring strong customer service capabilities similar to those demanded of Valets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Valet in Santa Fe
Valets should familiarize themselves with state and local labor regulations as well as tax information.
- Visit the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions for state labor laws and employment resources.
- Consult the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department for state tax regulations and filing guidelines.
- For local policies and resources, check the City of Santa Fe Official Website.