Restaurant Server | Explore this Career

What Restaurant Servers DoTake orders and serve food and beverages to patrons at tables in dining establishment.

Take orders from patrons for food or beverages.
Check with customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals, and take action to correct any problems.
Check patrons' identification to ensure that they meet minimum age requirements for consumption of alcoholic beverages.
Collect payments from customers.
Write patrons' food orders on order slips, memorize orders, or enter orders into computers for transmittal to kitchen staff.

Restaurant Servers Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationNone

Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)

Training Time6 months to 1 year

Job Openings456,700 Annually

Median Earnings

$35,290 in California

$33,760 Nationally

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Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Real Talk Reel

We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.

@hanxhsi

@gogogowb2

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Influencing or leading others
Relating with or serving others
Using data or completing tasks

you value

Accomplishing things
Having support
Personal relationships

you are skilled in

Active Learning
Critical Thinking
Speaking
Instructing
Learning Strategies

Go Deeper: Restaurant Servers Explained

Restaurant ServerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

find training near you

Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.

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What Is the Hospitality & Care Industry?

Hospitality & CareThe primary activities of this group involve facilitating hospitality and recreation, including preparing and serving food, and providing personal wellness services.