Waitress Salary in Wichita, KS
Waitresses in Wichita, KS, in 2025, earn approximately $17.57 per hour, which translates to about $702.80 per week, $3,045.47 per month, and $36,545.60 per year.
The demand for Waitresses in Wichita is growing at around 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and steady job opportunities in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Waitress Make in Wichita, KS?
The salary of a Waitress in Wichita varies widely depending on experience and the employer, but below is a general overview of earnings across different skill levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.94 | $437.60 | $1,895.73 | $22,755.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.57 | $702.80 | $3,045.47 | $36,545.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.21 | $1,128.40 | $4,884.53 | $58,676.80 |
Do Waitresses in Wichita Earn Tips?
Yes, Waitresses in Wichita commonly earn tips which can significantly boost their earnings. On average, a Waitress can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Waitress Salary in Wichita vs. National Average
Nationally, Waitresses earn about $17.57 per hour, which equals approximately $36,545.60 per year.
Comparing this with Wichita, we see that Waitresses here earn roughly the same hourly and annual income as the national average, reflecting a competitive market in this region.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Wichita for Waitresses
Waitresses in areas near Wichita can expect slightly different salaries based on location:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Old Town: $19.00 per hour
Old Town offers the highest wages, likely due to more upscale dining and higher demand in that area.
What Influences a Waitress’s Salary in Wichita?
Several key factors impact the salary of a Waitress in Wichita, including:
- Experience: More experienced Waitresses often command higher wages and better tips due to expertise and efficiency.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay better than casual diners or fast food joints, and tips tend to be larger.
- Skills and Certifications: Knowledge of food safety and alcohol service can increase employability and pay.
- Shift Times: Evening and weekend shifts might yield higher tips and shift differentials.
- Customer Volume and Location: Busy locations with high customer traffic often provide greater tip opportunities.
How To Become a Waitress in Wichita
Starting a career as a Waitress in Wichita involves several steps to set you up for success:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs like the Wichita State University Hospitality Management Program or Butler Community College Culinary Arts Program provide valuable industry knowledge and skills.
- Obtain Mandatory Certifications: The Kansas Food Handler Certification is required for all food service workers to ensure safe food handling practices.
- Alcohol Service Training: For establishments serving alcohol, completing the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is often mandatory.
- Gain Practical Experience: Working in entry-level restaurant roles helps build customer service skills essential for Waitresses.
Top Employers Hiring Waitresses in Wichita
Some of the prominent employers actively looking for skilled Waitresses in Wichita include:
- Public at the Brickyard
- The Monarch
- Doo-Dah Diner
Establishments That Waitresses in Wichita Work At
Waitresses in Wichita can find employment across a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These eateries offer moderate pay and tipping opportunities, suitable for beginners and steady income.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often have higher volume but typically lower tips and hourly wages compared to full-service venues.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually pay the highest wages and tips, demanding polished customer service skills.
- Cafes and Diners: Provide a more relaxed environment where tips can vary based on clientele.
The type of establishment significantly influences overall pay, with upscale restaurants offering the best earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Wichita for Waitresses
If you are interested in similar roles within the hospitality sector, consider these related careers:
These include Bartender, Hostess, and Server positions, each with unique responsibilities but often overlapping skill sets and work environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Waitresses in Wichita
Understanding labor laws and taxes is crucial for Waitresses to manage their employment rights and finances effectively.
- Consult the Kansas Department of Labor official site for labor laws, wage regulations, and workplace rights.
- The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) website provides comprehensive federal tax information relevant for employees.