Waitress Salary in Lincoln, NE
In Lincoln, NE, Waitresses in 2025 earn on average about $13.90 per hour. This equates to roughly $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Lincoln is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Lincoln, NE?
The salary of a Waitress in Lincoln varies with experience and employer, as shown in the following breakdown.
| 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 Lincoln Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Lincoln typically earn tips which can add a significant boost to their income. It is common for Waitresses to make an extra $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Waitress Salary in Lincoln vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses make an average of about $14.50 per hour, or roughly $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Lincoln earn slightly less hourly at $13.90 per hour and an annual salary of $28,912. This difference may reflect regional cost of living and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lincoln for Waitresses
In the vicinity of Lincoln, the following areas offer higher pay rates for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Haymarket District: $17.60 per hour
Areas like Haymarket District provide the best earning potential for Waitresses near Lincoln.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Lincoln?
Several factors impact how much a Waitress can earn in Lincoln, NE:
- Experience: More experienced Waitresses typically command higher wages and receive better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy locations often pay more and generate greater tips than casual or fast food venues.
- Skills: Strong customer service and multitasking skills enhance job performance and possibly wages.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts can offer premium pay or higher tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Waitress in Lincoln
To start a career as a Waitress in Lincoln, consider these steps:
- Complete relevant hospitality education or training, such as programs at Southeast Community College Culinary Program or University of Nebraska-Lincoln Hospitality, Restaurant, and Tourism Management.
- Obtain food safety certification, including the Nebraska Food Handler Permit and ServSafe Certification which are often required by employers.
- Gain hands-on experience by working in entry-level restaurant positions or internships.
- Develop strong communication and customer service skills to excel in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Lincoln
Some of the prominent employers actively hiring Waitresses in Lincoln include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Waitresses in Lincoln Work At
Waitresses typically work at a variety of dining establishments, such as:
- Casual dining restaurants, offering steady hours and moderate pay.
- Fast casual restaurants, which may have faster-paced environments and comparable wages.
- Fine dining establishments, where Waitresses can earn higher tips and wages due to higher menu prices and clientele expectations.
The salary and tip potential differ significantly depending on the type and prestige of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lincoln for Waitresses
If you are interested in similar positions to Waitress, consider these related roles that share some duties and skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Lincoln
Understanding labor laws and tax requirements is essential for Waitresses working in Lincoln.
- You can find detailed information about Nebraska labor laws and employment regulations at the Nebraska Department of Labor website.
- The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides comprehensive federal data on wages, employment standards, and related topics.