The old saying goes, “Love comes and goes, but you always need to eat.” And it’s true! No matter the circumstances, people need to eat at least three times a day. Consequently, there will always be a need for those who can cook delicious food and those who can serve it beautifully.
Many newspapers, websites, and job boards are filled with ads for service industry jobs. Waiter positions, in particular, are very popular. Waiters are the link between restaurant guests and the kitchen. Interestingly, employers usually don’t require special professional skills from candidates, but appearance and charisma are very important.
What to Know About Being a Waiter
First and foremost, remember that it is physically demanding work. You spend your entire shift on your feet, moving from table to table: taking orders, delivering them to the chef, cleaning up spills, clearing dirty dishes, and quickly and carefully bringing out food and drinks.
This goes on for over 8 hours straight, as diners, cafes, and restaurants often stay open “until the last customer leaves”. Additionally, customers vary in temperament, and not all are tactful and polite. But all guests must be greeted and farewelled with a smile.
Pros
- Extra income from tips.
- Suitable for students and people with no experience.
- Flexible schedule.
- Potential for career advancement.
Cons
- Income is unstable and largely depends on the prestige of the establishment.
- Overtime is not additionally paid.
- Frequent stressful situations.
- Usually a temporary job.
What Do You Need to Work as a Waiter in America?
The situation abroad isn’t fundamentally different from what it is at home. You need to follow the same rules and do the same work, but the chance of getting good tips is significantly higher. In the United States, the culture of tipping service staff is much more developed.
To get a job in an American establishment, you first need a work visa and any document proving that you are of legal age. Restaurant, cafe, and nightclub owners rarely care about diplomas and certificates. If the job involves serving alcohol, you also need to demonstrate knowledge of the relevant local laws.
Before starting your duties, you will need to undergo training. This period can last from one to several weeks.
Where Can Immigrants Work?
The most suitable areas for labor immigrants are those with well-developed tourism industries. For example, a job can always be found in the dining establishments of Miami, New York, Texas, Florida, or California. Even in small provincial towns focused on agriculture, a job seeker from another country won’t be turned away, provided there are vacancies.
How Much Does a Waiter Earn in America?
The income from such work depends on many factors:
- Type of establishment
- Location
- Length of the workday
- Availability of a uniform
- The waiter’s ability to get along with customers
- Qualification
As of 2024, the pay range for waiters varies from $7 to $35 per hour. The national average wage is about $18 per hour. These amounts are before taxes and without considering tips.
It’s believed that the highest rates are in big cities:
- San Francisco, California – $23/hour
- Fremont and San Jose, California – $22/hour
- Tana and Wasilla, Alaska – $21/hour
- Jackson, Wyoming – $20/hour
By American standards, the salary is quite small, but people who come to the U.S. to improve their financial situation often see the waiter profession as a decent starting point.