Waitress Salary in Bismarck, ND
Waitresses in Bismarck, ND, in 2025, earn approximately $16.33 per hour, which equates to about $653.20 per week, $2,830.53 per month, and $33,966.40 per year.
The job market for waitresses in Bismarck is showing positive growth at around 5% per year, indicating increasing demand for hospitality services and front-of-house staff in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Bismarck, ND?
The salary of a Waitress in Bismarck varies based on experience and other factors. Here is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.16 | $366.40 | $1,582.13 | $19,052.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.33 | $653.20 | $2,830.53 | $33,966.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $29.11 | $1,164.40 | $5,042.27 | $62,252.80 |
Do Waitresses in Bismarck Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Bismarck typically earn tips, which can add significantly to their income. On average, a Waitress might earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which greatly supplements their base pay.
Waitress Salary in Bismarck vs. National Average
On a national scale, Waitresses earn about $17.56 per hour, which corresponds to roughly $36,524.80 per year.
Comparatively, Waitresses in Bismarck earn slightly less, at $16.33 per hour and $33,966.40 annually. This difference may be influenced by local cost of living, demand, and the type of hospitality establishments in Bismarck.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bismarck for Waitresses
Nearby Bismarck areas offer competitive wages for Waitresses, including:
- Downtown: $17.50 per hour
- North Bismarck: $18.00 per hour
Waitresses working in North Bismarck tend to earn a bit more compared to other nearby locations, which is an incentive for commuting or seeking opportunities there.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Bismarck?
Several key factors impact how much a Waitress can earn in Bismarck:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced waitresses generally command higher wage rates and better tips.
- Skills and Service Quality: Exceptional communication, customer service, and multitasking skills contribute to higher tips and advancement.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy venues usually pay more and offer greater tipping opportunities compared to casual or fast food establishments.
- Shift and Schedule: Evening or weekend shifts might come with premium pay or generate more tips.
- Local Economic Conditions: The overall economy and tourism affect hospitality demand, influencing salaries.
How To Become a Waitress in Bismarck
To start a career as a Waitress in Bismarck, here are some useful steps:
- Education and Training: Enrolling in courses such as the Bismarck State College Culinary Arts Program provides foundational knowledge of food safety, service ethics, and restaurant operations.
- Hospitality Management Programs: North Dakota State University offers programs in Hospitality and Tourism Management, beneficial for advancing in the hospitality sector.
- Certifications: Obtaining certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) can demonstrate food safety and responsible alcohol service competence.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level positions at local eateries, diners, or casual restaurants are great starting points for building skills.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Bismarck
Some of the leading employers frequently hiring Waitresses in Bismarck include:
- Buffalo Wild Wings
- Texas Roadhouse
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
- Paradiso Mexican Restaurant
Establishments That Waitresses in Bismarck Work At
Waitresses in Bismarck commonly work in a range of dining establishments such as casual dining restaurants, fast casual eateries, family-style restaurants, and fine dining venues.
The type of establishment influences both the base wage and tipping potential. Fine dining venues generally offer higher wages and more generous tips, while fast casual spots might pay less but often have higher turnover rates and quicker service.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bismarck for Waitresses
If you are exploring roles related to Waitressing in Bismarck, consider these similar positions in the hospitality field.
These include roles like Server, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter, which share responsibilities in customer service and food service support.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Bismarck
Waitresses should stay informed about labor regulations and tax requirements to ensure compliance and proper management of their employment.
- State-related labor laws and worker protections can be found on the North Dakota official government website.
- For federal regulations including minimum wage and overtime, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.