About Server Jobs in Des Moines, IA
Des Moines Server Jobs Overview
Can you guess the No. 1 reason customers return to a restaurant? According to FSR Magazine, it’s not the food but the service that makes or breaks the dining experience. That’s one of the reasons server jobs are so important. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates that job openings for servers will see an extraordinary 20% increase over the next 10 years. This includes new openings in many types of food establishments, including restaurants, bars, and hotels.
One of the advantages of being a server is flexibility. You can work part- or full-time, early morning to the late evening, and even in seasonal jobs at resorts and local attractions. The duties of a server vary as well. Many upscale restaurants employ servers and hostesses to greet customers, seat them, and serve them beverages. The typical server job includes describing dishes, taking customers’ orders, relaying them to the kitchen, and serving meals. Many servers also prepare salads and mix drinks, and if there are no bussers, the servers also clear and clean tables.
You can expand your search for food service jobs by checking out these similar positions:
About Working in Des Moines, Iowa
If you don't live in Des Moines, cornfields may be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about Iowa's capital city. But Des Moines is far more than prairies and farms. According to several rankings, Des Moines is among the best and safest places to live in the U.S., a great city for young professionals, and an affordable place to buy a first home. So, if you're thinking about looking for jobs in Des Moines, you're not alone!
Des Moines has a lot to offer residents. You can admire the breathtaking architecture of the State Capitol building, browse the displays at Des Moines Art Center, or take a scenic walk through Robert D. Ray Asian Gardens before eating a "Dead Moines burger" from Zombie Burger or a crab rangoon pizza from Fong. The vibrant Historic East Village located downtown is lined with more than 90 locally owned restaurants, bars, food trucks, and shops.
The unemployment rate in Des Moines is lower than the national average, and its job market is healthy in comparison to other similarly sized metro areas. To top it off, the cost of living is pretty low in Des Moines. Jobs can also be found in other nearby cities like West Des Moines, Ankeny, and Ames.
Update Your Des Moines Server Resume
Many server jobs will require you to fill out an application. You should also submit a resume to show your professionalism and commitment to the job—especially if you’re applying to work at an upscale establishment. Look at Monster’s sample server resume to find out what to include.
A server cover letter will also put you head and shoulders above other applicants. A well-written cover letter gives the hiring manager a glimpse into your personality and communication skills—both of which are important in a customer service job. A cover letter also gives you a chance to discuss information that you don’t touch on in your application or resume, such as your enthusiasm for the job, career goals, and expectations.
How Much Do Server Jobs Pay in Des Moines, Iowa?
Got money on your mind? You should! Make sure you’re getting paid what you’re worth. Our Salary Tools can help you understand what you can expect to make in server jobs in Des Moines, Iowa, as well as the skills that can boost your value and what the next steps in your career might be. Right now, the median waiter/ waitress pay in Des Moines is $10.65 per hour, which is 6% lower than the national average.
Find Your Next Des Moines Server Job. Monster Can Help Get You Started
Are you prepared for a career in server? If so, set up your profile on Monster for free and begin clicking on those server jobs. When you sign up with us, you’ll receive custom job alerts and expert advice on how to negotiate your salary in Des Moines, how to nail your job interview, and more.