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Server Trainee Jobs in Manhattan, NY (NOW HIRING)

Server Trainee information

See Manhattan, NY salary details

$6

$16

$33

How much do server trainee jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for server trainee in Manhattan, NY is $16.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.39 and $19.09 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a server trainee?

Server Trainees are individuals who are in the process of learning how to work as servers in restaurants or other food service establishments. They typically shadow experienced servers to learn about taking orders, serving food and drinks, handling payments, and providing customer service. This training period helps them gain practical experience and understand the restaurant’s policies and procedures before working independently. Server trainees are essential for ensuring new staff are well-prepared to deliver a high-quality dining experience.

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

To thrive as a Server Trainee, you need a basic understanding of food and beverage service, strong attention to detail, and often a high school diploma or equivalent. Familiarity with point-of-sale (POS) systems and safe food handling practices is typically required, with some employers offering on-the-job training or requiring food safety certifications. Excellent communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are vital for delivering efficient, friendly service and creating a positive dining experience for customers.

What are some common challenges faced by a server trainee during their initial training period?

As a Server Trainee, one of the most common challenges is mastering multitasking in a fast-paced environment while maintaining excellent customer service. Learning the menu, understanding order systems, and adapting to the workflow can feel overwhelming at first. Additionally, effectively communicating with kitchen staff and experienced servers is crucial for smooth operations. With guidance from team members and managers, most trainees gain confidence and efficiency within a few weeks.

What is the difference between Server Trainee vs Server?

AspectServer TraineeServer
CredentialsMay require basic food service training or certificationTypically requires food handler permits and experience
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised, entry-levelFull-service restaurant, customer-facing, active
Employer UsageUsed for onboarding and training new staffRegular job position for experienced staff
Search/Comparison IntentLearning about entry-level roles and trainingSeeking experienced serving positions

The main difference between a Server Trainee and a Server is that a Server Trainee is an entry-level position focused on training and gaining experience under supervision, while a Server is a fully qualified staff member responsible for serving customers independently. The trainee role is ideal for those starting in the industry, whereas the Server role requires prior experience and skills.

Do server trainees get paid?

Yes, server trainees typically receive hourly wages, which may include tips depending on the establishment. Payment rates can vary by location and employer policies, and trainees often start with minimum wage or slightly higher during their training period.

How can I become a server trainee with no experience?

To become a server trainee, you should demonstrate good communication skills, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn. Many employers offer on-the-job training, so previous experience is not always required; highlighting customer service abilities and a flexible schedule can improve your chances. Completing any relevant certifications, such as food safety training, can also be beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Server jobs in Manhattan, NY?

The most popular types of Server jobs in Manhattan, NY are:

What cities near Manhattan, NY are hiring for Server Trainee jobs?

Cities near Manhattan, NY with the most Server Trainee job openings:

Desktop Support - Level 1 Technician (MAC-D)

American Info Systems, LLC

Manhattan, NY • On-site

$18 - $21/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Desktop Support – Level 1 Technician (MAC-D)
(Move, Add, Change amp; Decommission)
American Info Systems LLC is currently recruiting ON-CALL technicians and entry-level trainees to assist with Level-1 hands-on tasks. Qualified candidates will be primarily engaged to assist with disconnecting and reconnecting computers for AIS clients undergoing a relocation of their corporate workspace. Technology relocations are our core-competency and we feel that the in-field experience is a valuable stepping-stone for candidates looking to emerge into the technology sector.
Required Skillset for All Applicants (Experienced Technicians amp; Trainees):
  • Good communication skills both written and verbal. (English)
  • Respect for client property, workspace, privacy, security measures and best-practices.
  • Strong work-ethic, polite, well mannered, willing to learn, diligent, responsible, energetic and able to take direction.
  • Motived to learn and execute our model which has demonstrated proven success in the IT sector for nearly 2 decades.
  • Able to work independently or as part of a team.
  • Possess a basic understanding of computer peripherals (i.e. monitor, CPU / desktop / tower, laptop, dock and printer)
  • Familiar with safely working with basic hand-tools such as allen-keys, pliers and a power-screwdriver / drill.
Required Skillset for Experienced Technicians:
Note: Both Experienced Technicians and Trainees will undergo an introductory / onboarding phase to properly acclimate them with the AIS model and associated processes. Those who possess the skill-set below will undergo a technical evaluation by AIS Operations and may qualify for other opportunities with the firm. Potential opportunities and any associated compensation will be reviewed and presented formally by AIS Human Resources at the discretion of AIS.
  • Survey: familiar with capturing basic information such as hostname, IP, last logged in user and monitor configuration for systems running a current Microsoft Windows Desktop OS (i.e. Windows 7). Able to document peripheral devices, obtain printer configuration data and capture a photo of a user workstation.
  • Disconnect / Reconnect: able to efficiently disconnect, package for transport and reconnect workstations consisting of multiple-monitors, (1) or more PC’s and/or laptops / docking stations and associated peripherals.
  • Telephones: able to disconnect, reconnected and login (if applicable) to VOIP telephones. Familiar with connecting and testing wired and wireless headsets and placing a basic test call.
  • Monitor Arms: able to convert monitors from monitor-stands to monitor arms. Familiar with adjusting monitor arms and routing cables through cable managers if applicable.
  • Cable Management: able to neatly route and manage cables using Velcro®, wire-loom or similar products and cable-managers built into the furniture.
  • Quality Assurance: able to login to a workstation, test network connectivity (obtain / change IP address, ping a device or IP, access the web), configure monitors using the OS or video-card utilities and test printers / peripherals.
  • Support: able to provide desk-side Level-1 support to users after a move / relocation event. Able to map-printers, arrange desktop icons and communicate pending issues to the appropriate party for escalation.
Technology amp; Tools: (Provided by Trainee / Technician)
  • Smart-phone capable of mobile email
  • Technicians multi-screwdriver
  • Scissors / shears
  • Flashlight (recommended)
AIS Provisions
  • On-the-job training amp; basic reference materials
  • Access to 24/7/365 Helpdesk amp; Operations Hotline for support and escalations
Pre-Requisites
  • High School Graduate or equivalent, retirees and college students welcome to apply
  • A basic understanding of common computer equipment and peripherals
Other On-Demand Opportunities
If desired, qualified personnel may participate in other opportunities at AIS such as:
  • On-Site Liaison (Vendor Escort) – Details available after initial application and engagement
  • Desktop Support – Level 2 Engineer (Helpdesk – Desktop, Server amp; Network)
  • Move Coordinator / Project-Manager
Recognized Value Adds
  • Experience in the Financial Sector / Trading Floors
  • Management / Helpdesk experience
  • Familiarity with Variable-Height / Height-Adjustable furniture
  • Basic knowledge of tracing / patching (From IDF infrastructure to desk)
  • Laptop with Microsoft Office Suite
  • Tablet
  • Power-screwdriver / cordless drill
  • Valid Driver’s License and vehicle
Compensation
  • $18 - $21 per/hour Based upon experience and skillset