Waiters and waitresses take orders and serve food and beverages to customers in dining establishments. Their job duties typically include greeting customers, presenting menus, taking food and drink orders, relaying orders to the kitchen staff, serving meals, clearing tables, and providing excellent customer service throughout the dining experience. They may also handle payments, answer questions about menu items, make recommendations, and ensure that customers have a pleasant dining experience.
This income data is sourced from the May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) survey. The dataset is updated annually.
Annual Pay Distribution | Salary |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $17,640.00 |
25th percentile | $21,420.00 |
median (50th percentile) | $30,160.00 |
75th percentile | $43,320.00 |
90th percentile | $55,880.00 |
Hourly Pay Distribution | Hourly Rate |
|---|---|
10th percentile | $8.48 |
25th percentile | $10.30 |
median (50th percentile) | $14.50 |
75th percentile | $20.83 |
90th percentile | $26.87 |
Waiters and Waitresses typically do not have strict educational requirements beyond a high school diploma or equivalent, although some employers may prefer candidates with basic math and communication skills. A college degree is not necessary for this job. However, completing courses in hospitality or a related field can be advantageous for those looking to advance their careers in the industry. Training for Waiters and Waitresses usually involves on-the-job instruction where they learn about menu items, customer service techniques, proper food handling procedures, point-of-sale systems, and general restaurant operations. This training can vary in length and intensity depending on the establishment's standards and the individual's prior experience. Ongoing training may also be provided to ensure staff members stay updated on menu changes, policies, and customer service best practices.