Waitress Salary in Albuquerque, NM
Waitresses in Albuquerque, NM, earn approximately $14.75 per hour, which translates to about $590.00 per week, $2,556.67 per month, and $30,680.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Albuquerque is looking up with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating increasing opportunities in the hospitality and food service sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Albuquerque, NM?
The salary of a Waitress in Albuquerque may vary based on experience and employer, but generally, these are the typical earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.75 | $590.00 | $2,566.67 | $30,680.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.45 | $938.00 | $4,053.33 | $48,776.00 |
Do Waitresses in Albuquerque Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Albuquerque typically earn tips on top of their base salary. They can often make an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly supplements their earnings on busy or high-end shifts.
Waitress Salary in Albuquerque vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $16.00 per hour, which equals about $33,280 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Albuquerque make a bit less at about $14.75 per hour and $30,680 annually. This might be due to regional cost of living and demand differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albuquerque for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Nob Hill: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses working in Nob Hill can expect the highest wages among the nearby areas, reflecting the neighborhood's vibrant dining scene.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Albuquerque?
Several key factors affect how much a Waitress can earn in Albuquerque:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses who have developed excellent customer service and multitasking skills generally command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and bars typically offer better pay and tips compared to casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often bring more tips and sometimes higher base pay.
- Certifications and Training: Certifications like food handler permits and alcohol server licenses can enhance employability and pay potential.
- Location within the City: Working in popular neighborhoods like Nob Hill usually means a chance for better earnings.
How To Become a Waitress in Albuquerque
To start a career as a Waitress in Albuquerque, you can follow several steps to increase your chances of success and earning potential.
Begin by enrolling in hospitality-related programs such as the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program or the University of New Mexico Continuing Education Hospitality and Tourism Program, which provide foundational knowledge and customer service skills.
Additionally, obtaining essential certifications is important. The New Mexico Food Handler Certification is mandatory for all food service employees, ensuring safe food handling practices.
If working in establishments serving alcohol, securing an Alcohol Server License is required and covers responsible beverage service and state liquor laws.
Gaining practical experience through entry-level positions and building strong interpersonal skills will greatly support career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Albuquerque
Albuquerque hosts a variety of well-known employers seeking skilled Waitresses:
- Hilton Garden Inn Albuquerque Airport
- Los Cuates Lomas
- Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen
- IHOP
Establishments That Waitresses in Albuquerque Work At
Waitresses are employed across a diverse range of establishments in Albuquerque, including:
- Casual Restaurants: These offer steady employment with moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically, these establishments provide entry-level opportunities with tips but generally lower base pay.
- Fine Dining: Waitresses in fine dining settings often earn higher base pay and significantly better tips due to the upscale clientele and service expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Providing more consistent hours and benefits, these venues may pay comparatively better.
Where a Waitress works directly influences her total earnings, with high-end and busy locations offering the best salary and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albuquerque for Waitresses
If you are interested in careers similar to being a Waitress, consider exploring related roles in the hospitality industry for career growth and variety.
This includes related roles like Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, which often involve similar skills and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Albuquerque
Waitresses in Albuquerque should stay informed about local labor laws and taxation to understand their work rights and financial obligations.
- Visit the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions for state labor laws and employment resources.
- The Internal Revenue Service provides federal tax information critical for all employed individuals.
- For safety and workplace regulations, see the Occupational Safety and Health Administration.