Waitress Salary in Joliet, IL
Waitresses in Joliet, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $17.76 per hour, which translates to about $710.40 per week, $3,078.40 per month, and $36,940.80 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Joliet is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities and salary growth in this field.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Joliet, IL?
The salary of a Waitress in Joliet varies by experience and employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.70 | $468.00 | $2,027.33 | $24,336.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.76 | $710.40 | $3,078.40 | $36,940.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.95 | $1,078.00 | $4,651.33 | $55,956.00 |
Do Waitresses in Joliet Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Joliet typically earn tips which can significantly increase their income. On average, a Waitress may earn about $10 per hour in tips, adding a substantial boost to their base salary.
Waitress Salary in Joliet vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $17.76 per hour, or approximately $36,940.80 annually.
The average salary for Waitresses in Joliet matches the national average at about $17.76 hourly and $36,940.80 yearly, indicating that local pay rates are competitive.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Joliet for Waitresses
Near Joliet, certain areas offer slightly different pay levels for Waitresses:
- Downtown Joliet: $18.50 per hour
- West Joliet: $17.00 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown Joliet tend to earn higher wages compared to other local areas, reflecting perhaps a denser or more upscale dining market.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Joliet?
Several factors can influence how much a Waitress earns in Joliet.
- Experience: More experienced Waitresses tend to command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills: Strong customer service skills and efficiency can lead to higher earnings through tips and promotions.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants generally pay higher wages and tips than casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might offer higher pay or better tip opportunities.
- Local Economic Conditions: Areas with higher living costs or more affluent clientele typically provide higher pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Joliet
To start and succeed as a Waitress in Joliet, consider the following steps.
- Complete Training Programs: Enrolling in hospitality and service training courses can build foundational skills.
- Consider Educational Programs: Joliet Junior College Culinary Arts Program offers comprehensive culinary training, while the University of St. Francis Hospitality Management Program provides broader education in hospitality.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Acquire the Illinois Food Handler Certification to ensure safe food handling, and the BASSET Certification to responsibly serve alcohol.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level service jobs or internships can help develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Joliet
Several notable companies actively hire Waitresses in Joliet, including:
- Panda Restaurant Group
- T.G.I. Fridays
- Quest Food Management Services
Establishments That Waitresses in Joliet Work At
Waitresses in Joliet typically find employment in a variety of diner and restaurant types.
- Casual Dining: These establishments offer steady work with moderate pay and tip potential.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often quicker-paced with lower base pay but tipping still commonplace.
- Fine Dining: Higher-end restaurants that offer better base pay and significantly more in tips.
- Bars and Pubs: Provide additional tip opportunities due to beverage service.
The type of establishment heavily impacts both base pay and tip income, with fine dining typically offering the highest earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Joliet for Waitresses
If you are interested in similar roles within the hospitality industry, consider these related careers which share some skills and work environments with Waitresses:
These include Waiter/Waitress, Fine Dining Server, and Server positions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Joliet
Waitresses in Joliet should be familiar with key labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and understand their obligations.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for nationwide labor standards and regulations.
- For state-specific information, visit the Illinois Department of Employment Security which provides resources on employment laws and benefits.
- Local regulations and additional resources can be found on the City of Joliet official website.