Waitress Salary in Kailua, HI
Waitresses in Kailua, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, equating to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Kailua is growing at a steady rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in this hospitality role within the city.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Kailua, HI?
The salary of a Waitress in Kailua varies with experience, but generally, earnings break down as follows across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.57 | $1,102.80 | $4,757.20 | $57,345.60 |
Do Waitresses in Kailua Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Kailua typically earn tips as a significant part of their income. They can make approximately $10 extra per hour in tips, which substantially boosts their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Kailua vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $18.00 per hour and approximately $37,440.00 per year.
In Kailua, Waitresses earn around the national average, with the median pay at $18.00 per hour and $37,440.00 annually, matching national trends while reflecting the local cost of living and service industry demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kailua for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer higher pay rates for Waitresses, including:
- Kahuku: $37.34 per hour
- Kaneohe: $31.09 per hour
These higher rates indicate potential opportunities for Waitresses willing to commute or work in these neighboring locations.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Kailua?
Several factors impact the salary of a Waitress in Kailua:
- Experience and Tenure: Waitresses with more years on the job tend to earn higher wages due to efficiency and customer rapport.
- Skill Set: Exceptional communication and upselling abilities can increase tips and overall pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or luxury resorts usually results in better salaries and tips compared to casual dining.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts often come with premium pay or higher tips.
- Local Economic Conditions: Kailua’s tourism and hospitality industry trends influence demand and wage levels.
How To Become a Waitress in Kailua
Starting a career as a Waitress in Kailua involves several important steps:
- Obtain necessary certifications, such as the Hawaii Alcohol Server Certification, mandatory for those serving alcoholic beverages, ensuring responsible service.
- Complete a ServSafe Food Handler Certification, a nationally recognized credential that ensures knowledge of food safety practices.
- Enhance your hospitality knowledge and culinary familiarity by attending offerings like the Hawaii Culinary Education Foundation, which conducts workshops and seminars beneficial for understanding food presentation and service.
- Consider enrolling in programs such as the Leeward Community College Culinary Arts Program, which also provides training in front-of-house operations and can help in career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Kailua
Prominent employers known for hiring Waitresses in Kailua include:
- Buzz's Original Steak House
- Uahi Island Grill
- Over Easy
Establishments That Waitresses in Kailua Work At
Waitresses in Kailua are employed across a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining: Offers steady work with moderate pay and tips, suitable for beginners or part-time workers.
- Fast Casual: Usually involves quicker service and lower tipping potential but provides experience.
- Fine Dining and Resort Restaurants: Typically provide higher wages and larger tips, given the clientele and quality of service expected.
The nature of the establishment directly influences the potential earnings, with fine dining settings generally offering the most lucrative pay packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kailua for Waitresses
Several hospitality roles share similar skills and career pathways with Waitresses, offering alternatives or advancement options within the service industry.
These related roles include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter, each providing unique opportunities for skill development and income potential.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Kailua
Waitresses in Kailua must navigate various labor laws and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- Refer to the federal website for labor laws and regulations for nationwide standards including minimum wage and overtime rules.
- The State of Hawaii Department of Labor and Industrial Relations website provides specific information on employment laws relevant to Hawaii workers.
- The City and County of Honolulu official website offers local resources and guidelines important to Waitresses in Kailua.