Waitress Salary in Juneau, AK
Waitresses in Juneau, AK, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Juneau is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a promising outlook and expanding opportunities for employment in the hospitality sector within the region.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Juneau, AK?
The salary of a Waitress in Juneau can fluctuate based on experience level and specific employers. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings depending on the stage in their career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Waitresses in Juneau Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Juneau usually earn tips in addition to their base salary. On average, they can make an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their total earnings.
Waitress Salary in Juneau vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to this, Waitresses in Juneau earn slightly less hourly at $13.90, and about $28,912 annually. This difference may be due to regional cost of living and local industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Juneau for Waitresses
Nearby areas to Juneau offer different pay scales for Waitresses:
- Downtown Juneau: $15.50 per hour
- Douglas Island: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses working in Douglas Island can expect the highest wages, followed by those in Downtown Juneau, which reflects the varied hospitality markets in these locations.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Juneau?
The salary of a Waitress in Juneau can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong communication and multitasking skills are often paid higher.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end restaurants or busy tourist spots typically commands better wages than casual diners.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may have bonus pay or higher tips.
- Customer Service Ability: Exceptional service often results in better tips, which form a large part of total earnings.
- Certification and Training: Certifications like TIPS and food safety training can enhance job prospects and pay.
How To Become a Waitress in Juneau
Starting a career as a Waitress in Juneau involves key steps to gain experience and certifications:
- Complete Hospitality Training: Programs like the Juneau Job Center Hospitality Training provide valuable customer service skills specific to waitstaff roles.
- Earn Necessary Certifications: The Alaska Food Worker Card is required for food service workers. Additionally, a TIPS Certification trains servers on responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Culinary Basics: The University of Alaska Southeast Culinary Arts Program offers foundational cooking and service skills, which can be beneficial for career growth.
- Obtain Food Safety Knowledge: Understanding safe food handling is crucial in this role and required by law.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Juneau
Major employers in Juneau that frequently hire Waitresses include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Juneau Work At
Waitresses in Juneau typically work in a variety of food service settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These places offer a relaxed atmosphere and usually moderate wages with tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These have quicker service and may offer slightly lower salaries but higher turnover of customers.
- Fine Dining Venues: Here, Waitresses often earn more in tips and wages, reflecting the upscale clientele and higher service expectations.
- Bars and Cafes: These may offer a mix of hourly pay and tip income, depending on the venue’s size and customer base.
The type of establishment can impact the total income from both wages and tips for a Waitress.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Juneau for Waitresses
Individuals interested in similar hospitality roles might consider related careers that require comparable skills:
These include Server, Banquet Server, and Backwaiter positions, all offering opportunities in the food service and hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Juneau
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Waitresses to ensure proper compliance and fair treatment in their employment.
- Visit the Federal U.S. Department of Labor website for information on national labor laws and standards.
- The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development website provides state-specific employment resources and guidance.
- The City and Borough of Juneau official website offers local regulations, labor information, and support services.