Waitress Salary in Lawton, OK
Waitresses in Lawton, OK, in 2025, earn approximately $9.96 per hour, which translates to about $398.40 per week, $1,726.40 per month, and $20,716.80 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Lawton is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities for employment in the hospitality sector within the city.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Lawton, OK?
The salary of a Waitress in Lawton can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.56 | $302.40 | $1,308.80 | $15,724.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $9.96 | $398.40 | $1,726.40 | $20,716.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.78 | $631.20 | $2,717.60 | $32,822.40 |
Do Waitresses in Lawton Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Lawton typically earn tips in addition to their base pay, which can significantly boost their income. On average, a Waitress might earn almost $10 per hour in tips alone, depending on the establishment and shift.
Waitress Salary in Lawton vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $11.42 per hour, translating to about $23,753.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Lawton earn somewhat less at about $9.96 per hour and $20,716.80 annually, reflecting regional economic factors and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lawton for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer slightly varied salaries for Waitresses:
- Area 1: $10.50 per hour
- Area 2: $11.00 per hour
Waitresses commuting to these areas might find better compensation than in Lawton itself, making them attractive options for job seekers.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Lawton?
Several key factors influence the salary level of a Waitress in Lawton:
- Experience and Skill Level: Waitresses with superior customer service skills and more experience tend to earn higher wages and tips.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and busy venues generally offer better pay and tipping opportunities than casual diners or fast food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher tip potential and sometimes shift differentials.
- Local Economic Conditions: The cost of living and local employment demand in Lawton affect wage levels.
- Certification and Training: Although less common for Waitresses, food safety knowledge and hospitality training can be beneficial.
How To Become a Waitress in Lawton
Becoming a successful Waitress in Lawton involves several steps:
- Obtain Necessary Food Safety Certification: The Oklahoma Food Handler Permit is required for food service employees to ensure understanding of food safety practices.
- Consider Additional Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Great Plains Technology Center and the Hospitality Management Program at Cameron University can provide valuable skills in customer service and restaurant operations.
- Earn ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized certification educates workers on safe food handling and sanitation, enhancing employability.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level work in restaurants or cafes is often the gateway to career advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Lawton
The following employers are notable for hiring Waitresses in Lawton:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- IHOP
Establishments That Waitresses in Lawton Work At
Waitresses in Lawton typically find employment across various types of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady hours with moderate wage and tip levels.
- Fast Casual Establishments: While the base pay may be lower, peak business hours can offer decent tip earnings.
- Fine Dining Venues: These usually offer the highest salaries and tip potential due to upscale clientele.
- Chain Restaurants and Diners: Established chains like Texas Roadhouse and Olive Garden may offer more consistent scheduling and benefits.
The type of establishment directly impacts earning potential through different wage scales and tipping patterns.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lawton for Waitresses
If you are interested in related roles within hospitality, consider these similar positions:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Server roles, which share similar duties and pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Lawton
Waitresses should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to navigate their employment rights and responsibilities.
- Information on Oklahoma labor laws and worker rights can be found on the Oklahoma official government website.
- Federal labor standards and wage laws are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.