About Server Jobs in Salem, OR
Salem 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 Salem, Oregon
The Oregon state capital of Salem is located less than an hour south of Portland. Its historical involvement in the local cherry-growing industry has earned it the nickname “Cherry City.” But Salem isn’t just known for its cherries. If you’re looking for Salem jobs, there are plenty of attractions and amenities to cherry-pick from. Try taking a tour of the city to see for yourself. Along the way, walk through Schreiner’s Iris Garden or hop on the Riverfront Carousel. If you’re a wine connoisseur, get a bottle of Honeywood Winery’s specialty fruit-inspired wine or enjoy a glass of rare Viognier at Cristom Vineyards.
Downtown Salem is home to over 60 restaurants where you can find sleek American bistros, classic Mexican, Korean, and much more. You can also catch an arts performance, live band, or movie at the historic Elsinore Theatre. When you’re ready to unwind, check out any of Salem’s taprooms, breweries, cafes, and nightclubs.
There are many other benefits of living and working in Salem. The city has a healthy job market and its cost of living is lower than the state average. And if you haven’t found the job you’re looking for in Salem, there are plenty of opportunities in nearby Corvallis, Beaverton, and Portland.
Update Your Salem 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 Salem, Oregon?
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 Salem, Oregon, 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 Salem is $11.56 per hour, which is 2% higher than the national average.
Find Your Next Salem 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 Salem, how to nail your job interview, and more.