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Top 10 Waiter/Waitress Jobs – May 2024 Job Listings
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We’ve handpicked the top 10 Waiter/Waitress jobs in the United States — complete with salaries, requirements and benefits — in preparation for OysterLink Jobs platform’s launch in September 2024.
Best Waiter/Waitress Jobs in the US (Hiring Now!)
In restaurants all over the country, there’s a big demand for skilled Waiters and Waitresses. Even though the employment outlook for this position shows a projected 3% decline from 2022 to 2032, approximately 440,000 job openings for Waiters and Waitresses are expected each year.
[Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)]
This chart is interactive. Hover your mouse over different parts of the chart to see detailed data.
From bustling urban eateries to cozy neighborhood joints, stepping into the role of a Waiter or a Waitress offers a dynamic and fulfilling career path. Here’s a rundown of the top 10 high-paying waiting jobs available across the United States:
1. Johnny Napkins | $21.96–$27.79 per hour
[Source: Johnny Napkins]
- Position: Waiter/Waitress
- Location: Union, NJ
- About: Johnny Napkins is an Italian-American restaurant specializing in pizza and pasta.
- Requirements: Strong customer service and communication skills, basic math skills, knowledge of food safety regulations, five years of experience working in a restaurant or hospitality setting is preferred
- Job type: Full-time
- Salary: $45,700–$57,900 a year + tips
- Benefits: Health insurance, employee discount, flexible schedule
- Where to apply: Visit Johnny Napkins’ Career page
2. Tavern by the Sea | $20–$40 per hour
[Source: Tavern by the Sea]
- Position: Server/Waitstaff
- Location: North Kingstown, RI
- About: Tavern by the Sea is a restaurant known for its seafood-focused menu and waterfront dining experience.
- Requirements: Ability to listen and communicate effectively, strong multitasking and organizational skills, experience as a Server or Waitress/Waiter a plus
- Job type: Seasonal
- Benefits: Employee discount
- Where to apply: Visit the Tavern by the Sea’s Career page
3. Destination Hospitality | $20–$35 per hour
[Source: Destination Hospitality]
- Position: Server/Waitstaff
- Location: Steamboat Springs, CO
- About: Destination Hospitality is about creating outstanding dining experiences in unique resort destinations.
- Requirements: TIPS certification, wine knowledge
- Job type: Full-time
- Salary: $57,720–$74,072 a year + tips
- Benefits: Health insurance, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, on-the-job training, opportunities for advancement, paid sick time
- Where to apply: Visit Destination Hospitality’s Career page
4. Kwei Fei | $30–$40 per hour
[Source: Kwei Fei]
- Position: Waiter/Waitress
- Location: Charleston, SC
- About: Kwei Fei is a restaurant concept from Chef David Schuttenberg, inspired by the foods of Western China, particularly the province of Sichuan.
- Requirements: Ability to work 15–25 hours per week
- Job type: Part-time
- Salary: $31,200–$41,600 a year (for part-time) + tips
- Benefits: Free parking, employee discount
- Where to apply: Visit Kwei Fei’s Career page
5. The Airfield Cafe | $22–$26 per hour
[Source: The Airfield Cafe]
- Position: Waitstaff
- Location: North Hampton, NH
- About: The Airfield Café is a unique dining establishment situated at the Hampton Airfield. Open since 1996, it offers breakfast and lunch served all day.
- Requirements: Weekend availability, one year of experience
- Job type: Full-time
- Salary: $62,400–$83,200 a year + tips
- Benefits: Disability, health, dental and life insurance, 401(k), employee discount, food provided
- Where to apply: Visit The Airfield’s Cafe Career page
6. Mariner Grille | $20–$35 per hour
[Source: Mariner Grille]
- Position: Waitstaff
- Location: Narragansett, RI
- About: Mariner Grille is a popular restaurant that offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with a focus on American Steak and Seafood cuisine.
- Requirements: Ability to work on Saturdays, excellent customer service skills
- Job type: Full-time, part-time, seasonal
- Salary: $41,600–$72,800 (for full-time) + tips
- Benefits: Employee discount, flexible schedule
- Where to apply: Visit Mariner Grille’s Career page
7. Sea Palms Resort | $15–$40 per hour
[Source: Sea Palms Resort]
- Position: Waiter/Waitress
- Location: Saint Simons Island, GA
- About: Sea Palms Resort is a coastal retreat offering luxury accommodations, golf courses and a range of recreational amenities.
- Requirements: Strong customer service skills, basic math skills, knowledge of food safety regulations and practices, previous experience in a restaurant or hospitality setting is preferred
- Job type: Full-time, Part-time, Temporary, Seasonal
- Salary: $31,200–$83,200 a year (for full-time) + tips
- Benefits: Paid training, health, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), tuition reimbursement, paid time off, employee discount, flexible schedule, referral program, food provided, paid sick time
- Where to apply: Visit Sea Palms Resort’s Career page
8. Izumi Sushi | $18.86–$47.50 per hour
[Source: Izumi Sushi]
- Position: Waiter/Waitress
- Location: West Lake Hills, TX
- About: Izumi Sushi is a Japanese restaurant known for its sushi and other Japanese cuisine offerings.
- Requirements: Weekend availability
- Job type: Full-time, Part-time
- Salary: $39,302–$99,400 + tips
- Benefits: Employee discount
- Where to apply: Visit the Izumi Sushi’s Career page
9. The Front Porch Cafe | $21.65–$60.00 per hour
[Source: The Front Porch Cafe]
- Position: Server/Waiter
- Location: Miami Beach, FL
- About: The Front Porch Cafe is a restaurant that offers a casual dining experience with a menu featuring breakfast, brunch and lunch options.
- Requirements: Strong knowledge of food handling procedures, basic math skills, familiarity with cash register or POS systems, flexibility to work evenings, weekends and holidays as needed
- Job type: Full-time
- Salary: $45,032–$124,800 a year + tips
- Benefits: Health insurance, employee discount, flexible schedule
- Where to apply: Visit The Front Porch’s Cafe Career page
10. Max and Benny’s Restaurant | $20–$30 per hour
[Source: Max and Benny’s Restaurant]
- Position: Waiter/Waitress
- Location: Northbrook, IL
- About: Max and Benny’s Restaurant is a family-owned deli and restaurant. It offers a diverse menu featuring classic deli fare such as sandwiches, soups, salads and Jewish comfort food favorites like matzo ball soup and latkes.
- Requirements: Basic math skills, familiarity with POS systems, strong multitasking and communication skills
- Job type: Full-time, part-time
- Salary: $41,600–$62,400 a year (for full-time) + tips
- Benefits: Health insurance, employee discount, flexible schedule, paid sick time
- Where to apply: Visit Max and Benny’s Restaurant’s Career page
How Much Do Waiters/Waitresses Make in the US?
The average wage for a Waiter/Waitress in the United States is $36,530 base plus tips per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Explore the map below for annual Waiter/Waitress salaries across the U.S.:
[Source: BLS]
This map is interactive. Hover your mouse over different parts of the map to see detailed data.
Waiter/Waitress Hourly Wage
The average Waiter/Waitress hourly wage in the U.S. is $17.56 base plus tips per hour.
Waiter/Waitress wage also differs in the four major U.S. cities, with New York City being the highest-paying ($24.45 per hour) and Chicago being the lowest-paying city ($16.51 per hour).
Miami
Average Hourly Wage
$17.96 base + tips
New York City
Average Hourly Wage
$24.45 base + tips
Chicago
Average Hourly Wage
$16.51 base + tips
Los Angeles
Average Hourly Wage
$19.48 base + tips
[Source: BLS]
Alongside their base pay, Waiters and Waitresses often rely on tips as a substantial part of their earnings, which may fluctuate depending on factors like the establishment’s type, location and the quality of service offered. In the U.S., it is common to tip Waiters and Waitresses between 15% to 20% of the total bill.
To gain a thorough understanding of Waiter/Waitress salaries throughout the U.S., including average annual earnings, state-specific data and salary details for prominent cities such as New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago and Miami, check out our Waiter/Waitress Salary page.
Top-Paying States for Waiters/Waitresses
Waiters and Waitresses in Vermont earn the highest average salaries, while those in Alabama earn the lowest.
| State | Avg. Salary |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $22,690 |
| Alaska | $36,150 |
| Arizona | $49,080 |
| Arkansas | $29,060 |
| California | $43,200 |
| Colorado | $41,630 |
| Connecticut | $41,760 |
| Delaware | $34,780 |
| Florida | $37,050 |
| Georgia | $28,840 |
| Hawaii | $44,620 |
| Idaho | $32,030 |
| Illinois | $33,910 |
| Indiana | $29,400 |
| Iowa | $30,050 |
| Kansas | $34,520 |
| Kentucky | $29,120 |
| Louisiana | $29,160 |
| Maine | $47,570 |
| Maryland | $39,430 |
| Massachusetts | $40,830 |
| Michigan | $39,590 |
| Minnesota | $25,850 |
| Mississippi | $24,610 |
| Missouri | $36,810 |
| Montana | $23,950 |
| Nebraska | $37,330 |
| Nevada | $32,360 |
| New Hampshire | $39,070 |
| New Jersey | $46,590 |
| New Mexico | $37,590 |
| New York | $51,040 |
| North Carolina | $29,990 |
| North Dakota | $35,210 |
| Ohio | $33,930 |
| Oklahoma | $24,590 |
| Oregon | $34,250 |
| Pennsylvania | $33,890 |
| Rhode Island | $41,900 |
| South Carolina | $22,770 |
| South Dakota | $28,590 |
| Tennessee | $29,210 |
| Texas | $29,350 |
| Utah | $35,480 |
| Vermont | $60,200 |
| Virginia | $37,580 |
| Washington | $57,960 |
| West Virginia | $33,410 |
| Wisconsin | $31,230 |
| Wyoming | $30,300 |
| District of Columbia | $51,970 |
Where Do Waiters/Waitresses Work?
In 2022, the largest employers of Waiters and Waitresses were as follows:
[Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)]
This chart is interactive. Hover your mouse over different parts of the chart to see detailed data.
Similar to Servers, Waiters and Waitresses work in diverse settings, each with its own atmosphere and opportunities for skill development and career advancement. Here’s are the different types of establishments where Waiters and Waitresses commonly find employment:
Fine Dining Restaurants
In upscale dining establishments, Waiters and Waitresses provide impeccable service, guiding patrons through sophisticated menus and ensuring a memorable dining experience.
Casual Dining Restaurants
From cozy bistros to family-friendly eateries, waitstaff in casual dining settings offer friendly and efficient service, catering to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.
Cafés and Bistros
These laid-back establishments offer a relaxed atmosphere where Waiters and Waitresses serve up coffee, light meals and pastries, creating a welcoming space for customers to unwind.
Bars and Pubs
Whether it’s a lively sports bar or a cozy neighborhood pub, Waiters and Waitresses keep the drinks flowing and provide attentive service to patrons enjoying a night out.
Hotel Restaurants and Lounges
Within the hospitality industry, Waiters and Waitresses work in hotel restaurants and lounges, providing guests with exceptional service and catering to their dining needs throughout their stay.
Fast Food Chains
In bustling fast-food joints, Waiters and Waitresses handle orders quickly and efficiently, ensuring customers receive their meals promptly while maintaining a high standard of service.
Banquet Halls and Event Spaces
Working for catering companies, the wait staff assist in the smooth execution of events. They serve food and drinks, attending to guests’ needs throughout events ranging from weddings to conferences.
Diners and Breakfast Joints
Whether it’s a classic American diner or a cozy breakfast spot, Waiters and Waitresses in these establishments serve up hearty meals and friendly service, often becoming beloved fixtures in the local community.
Waiter/Waitress Career Pros & Cons
Working as a Waiter or a Waitress offers a unique career path with its own set of upsides and downsides. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of pursuing a Waiter/Waitress career.
Pros:
- Flexible scheduling: As a Waiter or a Waitress, you often enjoy flexible hours, allowing you to manage work alongside other commitments like education or family responsibilities.
- Potential for increased earnings: In bustling restaurants or during peak times, you have the chance to earn a solid income. With experience and dedication, you can boost your earnings through tips and by advancing within the hospitality industry. Advancement opportunities may include roles like Lead Waiter or Waitress, Assistant Restaurant Manager or even Restaurant Manager.
- Social engagement: Interacting with customers is a significant aspect of the job, offering meaningful opportunities for social interaction. Building rapport with patrons can create a fulfilling work environment and valuable networking connections.
- Development of transferable skills: The Waiter/Waitress role hones important skills such as communication, multitasking and problem-solving, which can be applied to various other professions in the future.
- Opportunities for growth: The hospitality industry provides various avenues for career progression. Seasoned Waiters and Waitresses may advance to supervisory positions, become trainers or explore entrepreneurship by managing their own restaurants.
- Employee perks: Many restaurants offer discounts on meals and beverages to their staff, allowing you to enjoy your favorite dishes at a reduced rate during your shifts or off-duty hours.
Cons:
- Physical demands: The Waiter/Waitress role can be physically demanding due to long hours spent on your feet. This can lead to fatigue or strain over time, requiring proper self-care and ergonomic practices.
- Variable income: While tips can significantly boost your earnings, they can also be unpredictable and subject to fluctuation based on factors like customer traffic and generosity. This variability can make budgeting and financial planning challenging.
- Customer service challenges: Dealing with demanding or difficult customers can be stressful and emotionally draining. Waiters and Waitresses must remain professional and patient when handling various customer interactions, which can sometimes prove challenging.
- Repetitive tasks: Performing routine tasks such as taking orders and serving dishes can become monotonous over time. The repetitive nature of these duties may lead to boredom or a lack of motivation, particularly without sufficient variety in the work environment.
- Workplace stress: Working in a fast-paced restaurant environment can be stressful, especially during peak hours or when managing a high volume of orders. The pressure to maintain efficiency while delivering quality service can lead to stress and burnout if not managed effectively.
- Irregular hours: While flexibility in scheduling can be beneficial, it may also mean working irregular hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends and holidays. This can disrupt work-life balance and make it challenging to maintain consistent routines or social commitments.
Waiter/Waitress Job FAQs
Waiter/Waitress job ads typically seek candidates who demonstrate a range of qualifications and skills essential for providing exceptional service in the hospitality industry. These include:
- Customer service orientation: Ability to provide excellent service and create a positive dining experience for guests.
- Communication skills: Clear verbal communication for taking orders and interacting with customers, as well as effective listening skills to understand customer preferences and needs.
- Teamwork: Capability to work collaboratively with other waitstaff, kitchen staff and management to ensure smooth restaurant operations.
- Time management: Skill in managing time efficiently to prioritize tasks, handle multiple tables and deliver orders promptly.
- Adaptability: Capacity to remain composed and adapt to changing situations, such as busy shifts or unexpected customer requests.
- Basic math skills: Ability to handle transactions, process payments accurately and calculate bills, including taxes and tips.
- Attention to detail: Diligence in accurately recording orders, ensuring correct food and beverage delivery and maintaining cleanliness and organization in the dining area.
- Physical stamina: Endurance to stand and walk for long periods and lift and carry trays of food and beverages.
- Problem-solving: Ability to resolve customer complaints or issues professionally and efficiently, seeking assistance from management when necessary.
- Compliance with health and safety regulations: Understanding of food safety practices, sanitation guidelines and alcohol service laws to maintain a safe and hygienic environment.
- Professionalism: Presentation of a neat appearance, adherence to dress code policies and courteous behavior toward customers and colleagues.
- Previous experience: While not always required, many job ads may prefer candidates with prior experience in the hospitality industry or as a Waiter/Waitress.
Yes, several certifications or training programs can enhance your chances of getting hired as a Waiter/Waitress. Some of these include:
- Food safety certification: Many restaurants require staff to have certification in food safety, such as ServSafe or equivalent, to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Responsible alcohol service training: For establishments that serve alcohol, completing a responsible alcohol service training program like TIPS (Training for Intervention Procedures) can be advantageous.
- Customer service training: Courses or workshops focused on customer service skills can help you develop the interpersonal abilities necessary for providing excellent service to guests.
- Hospitality management courses: Completing courses in hospitality management can demonstrate your commitment to the industry and your potential for advancement.
- Language proficiency: If you’re applying to a restaurant where multiple languages are spoken, proficiency in languages other than English may be beneficial, especially if it aligns with the restaurant’s customer demographics.
To pass a Waiter/Waitress interview, it’s essential to showcase your customer service skills, communication abilities and enthusiasm for the role. Be prepared to discuss your previous experience in the hospitality industry, handle situational interview questions about handling challenging customers or multitasking and demonstrate your knowledge of food and beverage service.
New Waiters and Waitresses typically receive comprehensive training to prepare them for their role. This training often includes:
- Familiarization with the restaurant’s menu items, ingredients and preparation methods
- Instruction on using POS systems for order entry and payment processing
- Guidance on customer service etiquette, including greeting guests, taking orders accurately and addressing customer concerns
- Training on handling various types of food and beverages, including carrying trays and serving techniques
- Education on food safety and hygiene protocols to ensure compliance with health regulations
- Role-playing scenarios to practice handling common situations encountered in the restaurant environment
During interviews for Waiter/Waitress roles, you can expect questions that assess your customer service skills, ability to handle difficult situations and knowledge of food and beverage service.
Here are some common interview questions:
- Can you tell us about your previous experience working in the hospitality industry?
- How do you handle challenging or dissatisfied customers?
- What do you consider to be excellent customer service?
- How do you prioritize tasks during a busy shift?
- Can you describe a time when you had to work effectively as part of a team?
- How do you ensure accuracy when taking orders and delivering food to customers?
- What steps do you take to maintain a clean and organized work area?
- How do you handle situations where a customer has special dietary requirements or allergies
- What would you do if you noticed a colleague struggling to keep up with their workload?
- How do you handle situations where you make a mistake with a customer’s order?
- Can you provide an example of a time when you went above and beyond to satisfy a customer
- How do you stay updated on menu changes and specials?
- What do you enjoy most about working in the food service industry?
- How do you handle high-stress situations or busy shifts?
- Why do you want to work specifically in our restaurant?
Preparing thoughtful responses to these questions can help you demonstrate your suitability for the Waiter/Waitress role and make a positive impression on potential employers.
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