Waitress Salary in Elizabeth, NJ
Waitresses in Elizabeth, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.31 per hour, which translates to about $732.40 per week, $3,173.73 per month, and $38,084.80 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Elizabeth is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a promising outlook for job opportunities and career growth in the food service industry within the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Elizabeth, NJ?
The salary of a Waitress in Elizabeth can vary based on experience and employer, but the following table gives a look at typical pay rates by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.53 | $581.20 | $2,511.47 | $30,134.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.31 | $732.40 | $3,173.73 | $38,084.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $24.22 | $968.80 | $4,203.73 | $50,377.60 |
Do Waitresses in Elizabeth Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their base pay. In Elizabeth, it's common for Waitresses to earn an extra approximately $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Elizabeth vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $18.31 per hour, translating to about $38,084.80 per year.
The average salary for Waitresses in Elizabeth matches the national hourly average of $18.31, with the yearly pay also aligning at around $38,084.80, reflecting a competitive wage for the region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Elizabeth for Waitresses
Nearby areas to Elizabeth offer slightly different salary levels for Waitresses:
- Elmora: $19.50 per hour
- Downtown Elizabeth: $20.00 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown Elizabeth can expect to earn a bit more than in Elmora, offering some incentive to choose employment in higher-paying neighborhoods.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Elizabeth?
Several factors can influence how much a Waitress earns in Elizabeth:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong customer service skills typically earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or busy establishments often offers higher base pay and greater tipping potential compared to casual dining settings.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may yield higher pay due to increased customer volume and potential for larger tips.
- Certifications and Training: Completing relevant certifications can improve service skills and increase earning potential.
How To Become a Waitress in Elizabeth
Becoming a Waitress in Elizabeth can be achieved by following several steps to build the necessary skills and credentials:
- Gain Basic Culinary and Service Training: Programs like the Union County College Culinary Arts Program and the Elizabeth High School Culinary Arts Academy provide valuable hands-on experience and foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: This is mandatory for all food service employees in New Jersey to ensure safe handling practices.
- Consider TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification: This training builds responsible alcohol service skills and is beneficial in many restaurant environments.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Excellent communication and friendliness are crucial for high tip earnings.
- Seek Entry-Level Positions: Starting as a Hostess or Food Runner can be good ways to get familiar with the industry before moving into Waitress roles.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Elizabeth
If you're seeking employment as a Waitress in Elizabeth, consider applying with these popular local establishments:
- Casa Vasca
- Marco’s Pizza & Ristorante
- Blue Elephant Tavern
- McLoone's Boathouse
- Hoboken Bar & Grill
Establishments That Waitresses in Elizabeth Work At
Waitresses in Elizabeth typically work across a variety of places including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering steady work hours and moderate tips.
- Fast Casual and Pizzerias: Often fast-paced with less tipping but more consistent shifts.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Establishments: These usually pay higher base wages and provide greater tip opportunities due to larger bills and higher prices.
- Bars and Taverns: May have variable hours but offer good tipping potential especially during peak social hours.
The type of establishment directly impacts total salary with upscale venues generally enabling Waitresses to earn more through tips and wages combined.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Elizabeth for Waitresses
For those interested in roles related to Waitressing, here are some similar hospitality positions to consider:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter positions, each with somewhat different work environments and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Elizabeth
Waitresses in Elizabeth should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and fair treatment.
- Visit the Official website of the State of New Jersey for information on state labor regulations including minimum wage, overtime, and workplace safety.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers key resources on federal laws and worker rights that apply to Waitresses.