Waitress Salary in Eugene, OR
Waitresses in Eugene, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $16.72 per hour, which translates to about $668.80 per week, $2,898.13 per month, and $34,777.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Eugene is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding hospitality sector in the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Eugene, OR?
The salary of a Waitress in Eugene can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.05 | $562.00 | $2,427.33 | $29,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.72 | $668.80 | $2,898.13 | $34,777.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.05 | $1,042.00 | $4,508.67 | $54,184.00 |
Do Waitresses in Eugene Earn Tips?
Usually, Waitresses earn significant additional income through tips. In Eugene, many Waitresses can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which can substantially increase their overall earnings and make the position more rewarding financially.
Waitress Salary in Eugene vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $16.72 per hour, translating to about $34,777.60 per year.
Waitresses in Eugene earn roughly the same as the national average at about $16.72 per hour and $34,777.60 annually, reflecting competitive wages in line with nationwide trends.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Eugene for Waitresses
When looking at nearby areas, Waitress salaries vary somewhat:
- Lake Oswego: $21.67 per hour
- Portland: $17.67 per hour
Lake Oswego offers a significantly higher hourly wage for Waitresses, making it an attractive option for those willing to commute or relocate.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Eugene?
Several factors influence the salary of a Waitress in Eugene:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong customer service skills and product knowledge tend to earn higher pay and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Waitresses at upscale or fine dining restaurants often earn more than those in casual or fast-food locations.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays can lead to higher earnings due to increased demand and possible shift differentials.
- Customer Base and Location: Busy locations with affluent clientele typically provide better tipping opportunities and wages.
- Certifications and Training: Additional training in hospitality or alcohol service can increase earning potential.
How To Become a Waitress in Eugene
Starting a career as a Waitress in Eugene involves several key steps:
- Acquire Basic Food Service Knowledge: Programs like the Lane Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational skills useful for serving roles.
- Complete Hospitality Training: The Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association Training is beneficial for developing hospitality skills, customer service expertise, and food safety awareness.
- Obtain Necessary Certifications: Possessing an Oregon Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service workers. Additionally, the OLCC Server Permit is required for serving alcohol in Oregon establishments.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level roles in food service or customer service can help build practical experience.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Eugene
Some of the prominent employers in Eugene looking to hire Waitresses include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Eugene Work At
Waitresses in Eugene typically work at a range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady hours and consistent customers, often with moderate wages plus tips.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Usually pay lower base wages but can provide fast-paced environments and some tipping opportunities.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Typically pay higher base salaries and have greater tipping potential due to higher check averages.
- Bars and Nightclubs: May offer additional tips from beverage service plus OLCC server permits are required.
The type of establishment dramatically impacts salary and tipping potential for Waitresses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Eugene for Waitresses
If you're considering career options related to Waitressing, here are similar hospitality roles to explore:
These include Server, Backwaiter, and Banquet Server roles, which share many of the same responsibilities and skills as a Waitress.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Eugene
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Waitresses working in Eugene.
- Visit the Oregon government website for comprehensive information on labor laws and worker rights specific to the state.
- For federal labor standards and regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor's website provides valuable resources and guidance.