Waitress Salary in Fort Lee, NJ
Waitresses in Fort Lee, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Fort Lee is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding market for restaurant and hospitality services in the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Fort Lee, NJ?
The salary of a Waitress in Fort Lee can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview based on different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.49 | $619.60 | $2,682.93 | $32,195.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $39.00 | $1,560.00 | $6,760.00 | $81,120.00 |
Do Waitresses in Fort Lee Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses commonly earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. In Fort Lee, a Waitress can expect to make an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, which can significantly increase total earnings.
Waitress Salary in Fort Lee vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Waitresses in Fort Lee earn a higher hourly wage of $18.00 per hour and make about $37,440 annually, reflecting Fort Lee’s competitive hospitality market and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Lee for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Waitresses:
- Area 1: $18.00 per hour
- Area 2: $20.00 per hour
Waitresses in Area 2 tend to earn more, offering some of the highest pay for this role near Fort Lee.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Fort Lee?
Several factors impact how much a Waitress can earn in Fort Lee:
- Experience Level: More experienced Waitresses typically command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Effective communication and service skills can lead to higher customer satisfaction and increased tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels often pays more than casual dining services.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher pay or more tips.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Fort Lee’s economic environment affects wages for hospitality roles.
How To Become a Waitress in Fort Lee
Starting a career as a Waitress in Fort Lee involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Training: Strong interpersonal skills and a friendly demeanor are essential for succeeding in this role.
- Complete Hospitality or Culinary Courses: Programs such as the Bergen Community College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational knowledge valuable for this position.
- Consider Hospitality Management Studies: The Hudson County Community College Hospitality Management Program offers education relevant to restaurant operations and customer service.
- Obtain Food Safety and Alcohol Service Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification are often required by employers and enhance your qualifications.
- Build Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in food service help develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Fort Lee
Several well-known local establishments currently hire Waitresses, including:
- Artichoke Basille's Pizza
- Mason Jar Kitchen
- Blue Moon Mexican Cafe
Establishments That Waitresses in Fort Lee Work At
Waitresses in Fort Lee typically find work in various types of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These usually offer steady hours but moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These may pay slightly less in hourly wages, but volume and tips can vary.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher wages and larger tips are common due to upscale clientele.
- Bars and Cafés: May offer additional earnings from tips and sometimes mixed roles serving alcohol.
The type and prestige of the establishment greatly impact the total compensation a Waitress can earn.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Lee for Waitresses
If you're considering roles related to being a Waitress, here are some careers worth exploring:
These include Waiter/Waitress roles, Fine Dining Server, and Server positions—each involving direct customer service and tipped earnings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Fort Lee
Waitresses should be familiar with both federal and New Jersey state labor laws and tax requirements to ensure fair employment and proper tax compliance.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal labor law information.
- Check the State of New Jersey official website for state-specific employment laws and regulations.