Waiters and Waitresses
Job Zone 2 - Some preparation needed
Take orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment.
Median pay: $35,230/yr (U.S. national, May 2025)
Typical range nationwide (10th–90th percentile). This is a population snapshot, not a personal prediction - actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience.
Job outlook: -0.7% projected growth, 2024–2034 — declining.
About 456,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, OEWS and Employment Projections.
• Collect payments from customers.
• Check patrons' identification to ensure that they meet minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages.
• Write patrons' food orders on order slips, memorize orders, or enter orders into computers for transmittal to kitchen staff.
• Check with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals, and take action to correct any problems.
• Take orders from patrons for food or beverages.
• Prepare checks that itemize and total meal costs and sales taxes.
• Remove dishes and glasses from tables or counters, and take them to kitchen for cleaning.
• Clean tables or counters after patrons have finished dining.
What's the median pay for Waiters and Waitresses?
The median pay for Waiters and Waitresses is $35,230 per year, per the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
What's the job outlook for Waiters and Waitresses?
Employment for Waiters and Waitresses is projected to change -0.7% from 2024 to 2034 - declining.
What education is typically required for Waiters and Waitresses?
Typical entry-level education: No formal educational credential.
How many job openings are there each year for Waiters and Waitresses?
About 456,700 openings per year, on average, over the decade.