Waitress Salary in Waipahu, HI
Waitresses in Waipahu, HI, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, equivalent to roughly $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The job demand for Waitresses in Waipahu is growing positively at around 5% per year, signaling an increase in opportunities and stable employment in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Waipahu, HI?
The salary of a Waitress in Waipahu varies depending on experience level, but the following breakdown provides a general overview across hourly, weekly, monthly, and yearly earnings.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Waitresses in Waipahu Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses typically earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Waipahu, it is common for Waitresses to make an extra approximately $8 to $12 per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income depending on the establishment and clientele.
Waitress Salary in Waipahu vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Waitresses in Waipahu earn a lower base hourly rate of $11.00, resulting in an annual salary of $22,880.00. This difference often reflects local cost of living, establishment type, and regional wage standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waipahu for Waitresses
Nearby areas offer different pay rates for Waitresses, with some locations offering significantly higher wages:
- Area 1: $15.00 per hour
- Area 2: $16.00 per hour
These higher wages could be attributed to more upscale dining establishments or higher living costs in these neighboring areas.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Waipahu?
Several factors can affect how much a Waitress earns in Waipahu:
- Experience Level: More experienced Waitresses often command higher wages and better shifts, leading to increased tips and salary.
- Skillset and Customer Service: Exceptional communication and customer service skills can drive better tips and position a waitress for promotions.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants tend to pay higher wages and provide greater tips compared to fast casual or chain restaurants.
- Hours Worked and Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may pay higher hourly rates or doubles in tips.
- Certifications: Food Handler Certification and responsible alcohol service credentials can open doors to better-paying roles.
How To Become a Waitress in Waipahu
Starting a career as a Waitress in Waipahu involves several practical steps:
- Complete Food Safety Training: Obtain mandatory certifications such as the Hawaii Food Handler Certification to ensure compliance with state health regulations.
- Gain Hospitality Knowledge: Programs like Leeward Community College's Culinary Arts Program and Kapiolani Community College’s Hospitality and Tourism Education offer valuable foundational skills.
- Earn Additional Certifications: The TIPS Alcohol Certification can be beneficial to work in establishments that serve alcohol responsibly.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Being personable, attentive, and efficient boosts opportunities for tip earnings and promotions.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Waipahu
Many restaurants and eateries in Waipahu frequently recruit Waitresses, including:
- Restaurant Kunio
- Chili's Hawaii
- California Pizza Kitchen
- IHOP
- Shay's Filipino Cafe
Establishments That Waitresses in Waipahu Work At
Waitresses in Waipahu typically find employment across a range of venues:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering moderate wages and often stable shifts, these establishments are common workplaces.
- Fast Casual Chains: These provide opportunities for entry-level Waitresses, though base pay may be lower.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher wages and more substantial tips are possible here, often requiring advanced customer service skills.
- Resorts and Hotels: These venues may offer higher pay rates and better benefits due to the upscale clientele.
The type of establishment greatly influences overall earnings, with fine dining and resort settings typically providing the best compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waipahu for Waitresses
If you are exploring careers related to being a Waitress, here are some similar roles worth considering:
These include Bartender, Barista, and Server positions, which share similar skill sets and working environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Waipahu
Waitresses in Waipahu should familiarize themselves with key labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and comply with legal requirements.
- Access information on state labor laws and employment standards by visiting the official Hawaii government website.
- For federal labor regulations and workplace protections, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers extensive resources and guidance.