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Average Server Tips Jobs in Des Moines, IA (NOW HIRING)

Manages the Wait List when the restaurant is full. (10%*) * Provides guest assistance to servers as ... In this role you are paid the tip credit minimum wage, plus tips. This is an average estimate, only ...

Manages the Wait List when the restaurant is full. (10%*) * Provides guest assistance to servers as ... In this role you are paid the tip credit minimum wage, plus tips. This is an average estimate, only ...

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Average Server Tips information

See Des Moines, IA salary details

$5

$14

$30

How much do average server tips jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 12, 2026, the average hourly pay for average server tips in Des Moines, IA is $14.92, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.10 and $16.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a good amount of tips for an average server?

For an average server, a good tip is typically 15% to 20% of the total bill. Tips can vary based on service quality, location, and establishment type, with higher tips often given for exceptional service. Servers rely heavily on tips as a significant part of their income, especially in restaurants where tipping is customary.

What are average server tips?

Average server tips refer to the typical amount of money restaurant servers receive from customers as gratuity for their service. This amount can vary widely depending on factors such as the type of restaurant, location, shift worked, and the server's experience. In the United States, tips usually range from 15% to 20% of the total bill, and servers might earn anywhere from $50 to $200 or more per shift. High-end restaurants and busy shifts can result in higher tips, while slower periods or casual establishments may yield less. It's important to note that tips are a significant part of a server's income, as base wages are often lower than minimum wage.

What are some common challenges servers face in maximizing their tips during busy shifts?

Servers often encounter challenges such as managing multiple tables at once, handling special requests, and maintaining a positive attitude during peak hours. To maximize tips, it's important to stay organized, communicate clearly with both guests and the kitchen staff, and provide attentive, personalized service. Building rapport with customers and promptly addressing any issues can also make a significant difference in tip amounts. Teamwork and effective time management are key skills that help servers navigate busy shifts successfully.

What is the difference between Average Server Tips vs Bartender?

AspectAverage Server TipsBartender
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafes, casual diningBars, nightclubs, restaurants with bar service
Required CredentialsNone typically requiredFood handler permits, alcohol service certification
Employer & Industry UsageCommon in hospitality, food serviceCommon in hospitality, nightlife, beverage industry
Tip VariabilityModerate, influenced by service quality and locationOften higher, influenced by drink sales and tips

While both roles work in the hospitality industry, bartenders generally earn higher tips due to alcohol sales and the nature of their service. Average server tips reflect general gratuities received in food service, whereas bartenders often benefit from additional tips related to drink preparation and bar service.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a restaurant server, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Restaurant Server, you need strong customer service abilities, multitasking skills, and a basic understanding of food and beverage service, often acquired through on-the-job training. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and, in some locations, certifications like food handler permits are typically required. Communication, attention to detail, and a positive attitude help servers excel in fast-paced environments and ensure guest satisfaction. These competencies are essential for providing efficient service, maximizing tips, and fostering repeat business.

How much do servers typically make in tips?

Servers typically earn between $20 and $50 per shift in tips, depending on factors such as location, restaurant type, and hours worked. Tips often constitute a significant portion of their income, especially in busy establishments with high customer volume and good service skills.
What are popular job titles related to Average Server Tips jobs in Des Moines, IA? For Average Server Tips jobs in Des Moines, IA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Average Server Tips jobs in Des Moines, IA look for? The top searched job categories for Average Server Tips jobs in Des Moines, IA are:
What cities near Des Moines, IA are hiring for Average Server Tips jobs? Cities near Des Moines, IA with the most Average Server Tips job openings:
Infographic showing various Average Server Tips job openings in Des Moines, IA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $31,042 per year, or $14.9 per hour.

Full-time

Re-posted 27 days ago


Thrive Restaurant Group rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 10 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Thrive Restaurant Group is a family-owned restaurant company that’s been in business for over 50 years, and we’re looking for the next member of our family. We are committed to making a difference in the lives of the people we serve and the communities in which we live. If you want to work in a fun family atmosphere and are interested in learning business, leadership, and hospitality, this is the place for you.

In Applebee’s, we’re known as Legacy Apple. Applebee’s has become synonymous with the neighborhood, which inspires us to be a good neighbor in the communities we serve, not just a great place to eat. Whether we’re helping save a high school prom, or raising money for children battling cancer, we’ve given over $5 million to strengthen the lives and relationships in our communities. Our guiding value is “Be a Good Neighbor”.

Role: Host

Invitation: To make a difference by loving people with a bright smile. You’ll be responsible for enthusiastically greeting guests as they arrive and depart from the restaurant. You’ll assist guests to their seats and maintain the overall guest flow of the restaurants -- all with a caring sense of hospitality so whether a guest is starting or ending their experience, it’s in a positive way.

Specific Functions and Duties:

  • Opens door for guests arriving and departing. (40%*)
  • Accommodates any special needs of guests, i.e., boosters, highchairs, disabilities. (35%*)
  • Manages the Wait List when the restaurant is full. (10%*)
  • Provides guest assistance to servers as needed. (5%*)
  • Maintains a clean and organized work area and completes cleaning as assigned. (5%*)
  • Invites all guests back for another experience. (5%*).

Qualification Standards:

  • A desire to care for others, grow, and learn.
  • A positive attitude.
  • Reading, writing and verbal communication skills required.
  • Mobility required during the entire shift.
  • Transports and carries objects (such as high-chair) up to 15 pounds up to 15
  • times a shift.
  • Ability to wipe down table tops, table legs, pick up debris off the floor and wipe down booth seats in all areas of the restaurant.

Physical Requirements:

There are physical demands that come with this role. To be successful in this role you’ll be regularly required to 1) navigate throughout the restaurant and communicate with guests, 2) move and grasp items up to five pounds, 3) occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds, 4)  bend and stoop. You must have adequate vision to be able to discern cleanliness throughout the restaurant and operate a touchscreen. To perform these essential functions, reasonable accommodations may be made if you have disabilities.

Thrive Restaurant Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. 

Tennessee locations use E-Verify per state requirements. 

In this role you are paid the tip credit minimum wage, plus tips. This is an average estimate, only, and actual take home pay varies based on availability.


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