Top 11 Server Job Opportunities in New York City
Searching for a Server job in New York can be time-consuming and exhausting, not to mention competitive given the current state of the labor market. That’s exactly why we wanted to compile a list of some of the best establishments that are hiring Servers right now.
Best Serving Jobs in NYC (Hiring Now!)
Discover our curated list of the top 12 Server job opportunities in New York City, featuring positions at renowned restaurants, upscale dining establishments, and popular local eateries. Each listing includes detailed information on job requirements, benefits, and locations to help you find the perfect fit in NYC’s vibrant hospitality industry.
Server Salary Overview in NYC
According to OysterLink’s salary estimate methodology, the national average Server salary is $35,457 per year. This means that most Servers are making $2,954 per month and around $18 per hour.
In New York City, Servers earn competitive wages that often exceed the national average. While the national average Server salary is $35,457 annually (approximately $2,954 per month or $18 per hour), NYC Servers can expect higher earnings due to the city’s higher cost of living and generous tipping culture.
Server’s Salary Compared to Similar Positions in NYC
Servers in New York City earn more than Barbacks, who average $31,976 annually, but slightly less than Bartenders and Hosts/Hostesses. Bartenders in NYC have an average salary of $58,050, while Hosts/Hostesses earn around $39,120 per year. This salary range reflects the varying responsibilities and skills required for each position within the hospitality sector.
| Job Title | Avg Salary |
|---|---|
| Barback | $31,976 |
| Bartender | $58,050 |
| Host/Hostess | $39,120 |
Legal Requirements for Servers in NYC
Servers seeking employment in New York City must adhere to state labor laws and regulations. Key legal requirements include:
- Minimum Wage: NYC has a higher minimum wage than the federal rate, and for Servers, the tipped minimum wage applies.
- Overtime Compensation: Employees are entitled to overtime pay at 1.5 times their regular hourly rate for any hours worked over 40 in a workweek.
- Food Handler’s Certificate: While not always mandatory, obtaining a food handler’s certificate from the NYC Department of Health can enhance your employability.
- Sexual Harassment Training: Employers in NYC are required to provide annual sexual harassment prevention training to all employees.
- Familiarizing yourself with these regulations ensures compliance and promotes a fair working environment.
FAQs About Server Jobs in NYC
According to New York Magazine, New Yorkers would usually tip from 15 to 20% if they were satisfied with the service. However, due to rising costs globally, New York residents are now tipping from 20 to 25% regardless of whether they liked the service or not.
The busiest hours in New York coincided with lunch hours. However, it seems that New Yorkers take their dinner earlier than they used to. That means that you can expect most restaurants to be full from 6 to 8 p.m. on a daily basis.
On average, Servers spend two to three years in their roles before typically advancing to similar positions such as Bartenders or Cashiers. Given how good communication skills, ability to multitask and attention to detail are widely applicable to other hospitality jobs, Servers are well-prepared to advance in their careers to better-paying roles.
How We Picked the Top 12 Server Jobs in NYC
We made sure to include establishments that offer good incentives for their employees. When conducting the research, we also focused on brands that have a long-standing reputation and are known for career growth opportunities as well as competitive salaries.
