Waitress Salary in Olathe, KS
Waitresses in Olathe, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $17.82 per hour, which translates to about $712.80 per week, $3,088.80 per month, and $37,065.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Olathe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for food service and hospitality roles in the area.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Olathe, KS?
The salary of a Waitress in Olathe varies depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.66 | $466.40 | $2,014.13 | $24,212.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.82 | $712.80 | $3,088.80 | $37,065.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $27.25 | $1,090.00 | $4,708.33 | $56,680.00 |
Do Waitresses in Olathe Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses generally earn substantial tips in addition to their base pay. On average, a Waitress in Olathe can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall earnings.
Waitress Salary in Olathe vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn approximately $17.82 per hour and about $37,065.60 annually, which aligns with the average hourly and yearly earnings in Olathe.
This indicates that Waitresses in Olathe are paid competitively compared to the national average, reflecting local labor market trends and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Olathe for Waitresses
When exploring nearby areas, Waitress salaries can vary:
- Lenexa: $26.25 per hour
- Kansas City: $23.72 per hour
Waitresses working in Lenexa enjoy the highest pay among nearby locations, offering better earning opportunities than in Olathe itself.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Olathe?
Several factors affect how much a Waitress earns in Olathe:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Waitresses with excellent customer service skills typically command higher wages and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale or fine-dining restaurants usually results in better pay and larger tips compared to fast casual or chain restaurants.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher pay or better tipping opportunities.
- Certifications: Having certifications like TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) can enhance service quality and employability.
- Local Economic Conditions: Olathe's growing economy can positively influence salary levels.
How To Become a Waitress in Olathe
Getting started as a Waitress in Olathe involves taking practical steps to enhance skills and qualifications:
- Complete Relevant Training: Programs such as the Johnson County Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Kansas City Kansas Community College Hospitality Management Program provide valuable hospitality and food service education.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: The Kansas Food Handler Certification is required for anyone handling food, ensuring essential knowledge of safety practices.
- Earn Alcohol Service Certifications: TIPS Certification is advisable for Waitresses serving alcohol, emphasizing responsible service.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or apprenticeships in restaurants can develop customer service skills and knowledge of restaurant operations.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Olathe
Some of the top employers actively seeking Waitresses in Olathe include:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Chili's
- First Watch
Establishments That Waitresses in Olathe Work At
Waitresses in Olathe typically find work in a variety of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours and moderate pay with tipping potential.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually less formal, may offer lower base pay and smaller tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Command higher wages and greater tips due to premium service and clientele.
- Family Restaurants and Diners: May offer consistent scheduling with moderate pay levels.
The type of establishment significantly influences the pay and tips a Waitress can expect, with fine dining venues typically offering the most lucrative compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Olathe for Waitresses
If you are interested in similar roles within hospitality, consider these related careers that share overlapping skills and environments.
These include Server, Fine Dining Server, and Backwaiter—roles closely linked to Waitressing with distinct responsibilities and earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Olathe
Waitresses should be aware of key labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and manage their earnings effectively.
- For state-specific labor laws, visit the Kansas Department of Labor official website.
- For federal labor regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers comprehensive resources on workplace standards and employee rights.