Waitress Salary in Newark, NJ
Waitresses in Newark, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $20.65 per hour, which translates to about $826.00 per week, $3,579.33 per month, and $42,952.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Newark is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality and food service industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Newark, NJ?
The salary of a Waitress in Newark can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.83 | $633.20 | $2,745.87 | $32,950.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.65 | $826.00 | $3,579.33 | $42,952.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.95 | $1,078.00 | $4,655.33 | $55,956.00 |
Do Waitresses in Newark Earn Tips?
Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Newark, a Waitress can earn an approximate extra $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost overall earnings depending on the establishment and service quality.
Waitress Salary in Newark vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of about $17.50 per hour, which equates to roughly $36,400 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Newark earn more, with an average hourly rate of $20.65 and annual earnings around $42,952. This difference reflects the local cost of living and hospitality demand in Newark.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Newark for Waitresses
Nearby neighborhoods and districts offer varying pay rates for Waitresses:
- Downtown: $22.50 per hour
- Ironbound: $21.00 per hour
Waitresses working in Downtown Newark generally earn higher wages compared to those in the Ironbound area, likely due to a concentration of upscale dining and entertainment venues.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Newark?
Several factors contribute to how much a Waitress can earn in Newark:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with strong customer service skills typically earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, fine dining, and busy venues usually pay more and offer better tip potential than casual or fast-food locations.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening or weekend shifts may offer higher pay due to increased demand and gratuity opportunities.
- Location Within Newark: Neighborhoods with higher customer traffic and wealthier clientele tend to offer higher wages.
- Certifications: Food Safety and responsible alcohol service certifications can improve employment prospects and potential salary.
How To Become a Waitress in Newark
To start a career as a Waitress in Newark, consider these steps:
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Essex County College provide comprehensive food service skills valuable for Waitresses.
- Pursue Hospitality Education: The Hospitality Management Program at Rutgers University offers insights into the restaurant industry and customer service excellence.
- Acquire Food Handler Certification: Mandatory for food service workers in New Jersey to ensure safety standards.
- Obtain TIPS Certification: Essential for those serving alcohol to learn responsible service practices and compliance.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Newark
Some of the notable employers seeking Waitresses in Newark include:
- Ani Ramen
- Casa Vasco Newark
- Seabra’s Marisqueira
- Forno’s of Spain
- Dinosaur Bar-B-Que
Establishments That Waitresses in Newark Work At
Waitresses in Newark work across a diverse array of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady employment with moderate tip potential and hourly wages.
- Fast Casual Eateries: While fast-paced, these venues may offer lower wages and fewer tips compared to full-service restaurants.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Higher pay and tip opportunities exist here, rewarding experience and excellent service.
- Bars and Lounges: Positions in these venues often provide additional tip earnings, especially with alcohol service.
The type of establishment significantly impacts overall compensation for Waitresses, with more formal dining generally yielding higher pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Newark for Waitresses
If you are interested in careers similar to being a Waitress, here are some related positions worth exploring:
These roles include Backwaiter, Server, and Banquet Server, which involve closely related duties in customer service and hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Newark
Waitresses should be informed about applicable labor laws and tax responsibilities both federally and within New Jersey.
- Discover comprehensive federal labor guidelines at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For specific state labor laws and employment information, visit the New Jersey Department of Labor website.