Restaurant industry employs over 15 million people, according to the National Restaurant Association, and continues to grow post-pandemic. Here’s why restaurant jobs are attractive:

• High demand and frequent hiring

• Flexible hours for students, parents, or those with other jobs

• Entry-level friendly – often no degree required

• Tipping system can significantly boost income

• Career growth opportunities into management or culinary arts

Types of Restaurant Jobs in the USA

1. Front-of-House (FOH) Positions

These are customer-facing roles where communication and presentation matter most.

a. Server (Waiter/Waitress)

• Responsibilities: Taking orders, serving food, handling payments, guest interaction

• Skills: Communication, multitasking, knowledge of menu

• Average Salary: $20,000–$50,000/year (including tips)

b. Host/Hostess

• Responsibilities: Greeting guests, managing reservations, seating arrangements

• Skills: Friendliness, organization, people skills

• Average Salary: $12–$16/hour

c. Bartender

• Responsibilities: Preparing drinks, maintaining bar area, customer service

• Skills: Knowledge of mixology, speed, charisma

• Average Salary: $30,000–$70,000/year (tips included)

d. Busser/Food Runner

• Responsibilities: Cleaning tables, resetting dining areas, delivering food

• Skills: Speed, teamwork

• Average Salary: $10–$15/hour

2. Back-of-House (BOH) Positions

These roles happen behind the scenes but are essential to restaurant operations.

a. Line Cook/Prep Cook

• Responsibilities: Cooking and preparing food to order, maintaining kitchen hygiene

• Skills: Knife skills, ability to follow recipes, time management

• Average Salary: $15–$25/hour

b. Dishwasher

• Responsibilities: Cleaning dishes, utensils, kitchen equipment

• Skills: Speed, stamina

• Average Salary: $12–$16/hour

c. Kitchen Manager/Head Chef

• Responsibilities: Overseeing kitchen staff, designing menus, maintaining food cost

• Skills: Culinary expertise, leadership

• Average Salary: $50,000–$90,000/year

3. Restaurant Management Roles

a. Shift Supervisor

• Duties: Oversee staff during a shift, solve problems, ensure smooth operation

• Average Salary: $35,000–$50,000/year

b. Restaurant Manager

• Duties: Hiring, budgeting, scheduling, inventory, customer relations

• Average Salary: $50,000–$70,000/year

c. General Manager

• Duties: Full responsibility for operations, profitability, and team performance

• Average Salary: $60,000–$90,000/year

What Qualifications Do You Need?

Many entry-level restaurant jobs in the USA do not require a college degree. However, employers often look for:

• High school diploma or GED (optional for many roles)

• Food safety certification (like ServSafe)

• Customer service skills

• Experience (for higher positions)

For managerial or chef roles, having a hospitality degree or attending a culinary school can be advantageous.

Benefits of Working in a Restaurant

• ✅ No Degree Required (for many jobs)

• ✅ Fast Hiring Process

• ✅ Transferable Skills (teamwork, time management, communication)

• ✅ Tipping Culture boosts income

• ✅ Career Growth from entry-level to manager

Challenges in the Industry

• ❌ Physically demanding (standing long hours)

• ❌ Stressful during peak times

• ❌ Variable income if relying on tips

• ❌ Shift-based work, including nights and weekends

Salary Expectations in 2025 (USA Averages)

Where to Find Restaurant Jobs in the USA

✅ Online Job Boards

• Indeed.com

• Glassdoor.com

• Snagajob.com

• Poachedjobs.com

• Craigslist > Jobs

✅ In-Person

• Walk-ins with a printed resume

• Visit chains like Starbucks, Chipotle, Panera Bread, Applebee’s

• Local diners, food trucks, or mom-and-pop restaurants

✅ Restaurant Career Pages

Major brands like McDonald’s, Olive Garden, Domino’s, and Chick-fil-A have career portals for applications.

Top Cities Hiring Restaurant Workers in 2025

• New York City

• Los Angeles

• Chicago

• Dallas

• Miami

• Las Vegas

• Houston

• Seattle

• Phoenix

• Orlando

Tourist-heavy and metro areas have the highest demand for restaurant staff year-round.

Tips for Getting Hired in a Restaurant

1. Polish Your Resume
   Highlight any customer service, teamwork, or fast-paced work experience.

2. Dress Neatly for Interviews
   Even if it’s a casual restaurant, first impressions matter.

3. Be Ready to Start ASAP
   Restaurants often need staff urgently—flexibility helps.

4. Get a Food Handler’s Certificate
   Many states require it. Having one upfront can make you a more attractive hire.

5. Show a Positive Attitude
   Hospitality is all about people skills—smile, be polite, and stay calm under pressure.

Is This Industry Right for You?

Ask yourself:

• Are you comfortable standing and moving all day?

• Can you work evenings, weekends, or holidays?

• Are you good with people and staying calm under pressure?

If yes, a restaurant job could be a great fit. It’s one of the few industries where you can start with nothing and rise to the top based on your work ethic alone.

The restaurant industry offers more than just a paycheck—it’s a gateway to lifelong skills, networking opportunities, and even entrepreneurship. Whether you’re a student, immigrant, career changer, or someone passionate about food and service, there’s a place for you in the U.S. restaurant workforce.

With the right mindset and a willingness to learn, restaurant jobs can turn into restaurant careers.