Waitress Salary in Paterson, NJ
Waitresses in Paterson, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $15.00 per hour, which translates to about $600.00 per week, $2,600.00 per month, and $31,200.00 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Paterson is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth prospects in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Paterson, NJ?
The salary of a Waitress in Paterson varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| 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 | $2,434.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $34,560.00 |
Do Waitresses in Paterson Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Paterson generally earn tips in addition to their base salary. They can make an extra $10 per hour in tips on average, significantly boosting their overall income.
Waitress Salary in Paterson vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
When compared to the national average, Waitresses in Paterson earn slightly more, at about $15.00 per hour and $31,200 per year.
This difference is influenced by local demand, living costs, and employer factors in Paterson, NJ.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Paterson for Waitresses
When looking at nearby areas, Waitress salaries vary as follows:
- Eastside: $15.50 per hour
- South Paterson: $17.60 per hour
Waitresses working in South Paterson tend to earn the highest wages among these locations.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Paterson?
Several factors affect how much a Waitress can earn in Paterson:
- Experience and Skill Level: Experienced Waitresses who provide excellent customer service and efficiency are often rewarded with higher pay and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Waitresses in upscale restaurants usually earn more than those in casual dining or fast food.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts may provide additional compensation or better tips.
- Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler or TIPS can enhance employability and earnings.
- Location: Salaries vary based on the specific neighborhood and demand for hospitality services.
How To Become a Waitress in Paterson
To start a career as a Waitress in Paterson, consider these steps:
- Obtain Basic Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure understanding of food safety regulations and are often required.
- Get Training in Responsible Alcohol Service: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is valuable for working in restaurants serving alcohol.
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Enrolling in programs such as the Passaic County Community College Culinary Arts Program or Hudson County Community College Culinary Arts Institute can provide practical knowledge and skills.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level food service roles helps build customer service and operational skills.
- Develop Strong Communication Skills: A Waitress’s ability to interact positively with customers is crucial for success and earning tips.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Paterson
Some of the notable employers currently hiring Waitresses in Paterson include:
- Red Oak Bar & Grill
- The Brownstone
- La Huerta Paterson
Establishments That Waitresses in Paterson Work At
Waitresses in Paterson typically work in various types of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments offer steady hours and usually an hourly wage plus tips, with moderate earning potential.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often rely on quick service, and the wages plus tips can vary depending on foot traffic.
- Bars and Pubs: Usually have higher tips but may involve late hours.
- Fine Dining: Offers the highest earning potential in the waitress role due to larger tips and higher base wage.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary and tip earning potential for Waitresses in Paterson.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Paterson for Waitresses
If you’re interested in roles related to Waitresses, consider these similar careers that also offer opportunities in hospitality:
These include Bartender, Fine Dining Server, and Waiter/Waitress roles, which share many of the same skills and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Paterson
It is important for Waitresses to understand the labor laws and tax regulations that apply to their work in Paterson, NJ.
- For federal labor laws, including wage standards and employment rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For information specific to New Jersey, including wage regulations and employment services, see the New Jersey Department of Labor website.