1

Waitress Jobs in Oak Ridge, TN (NOW HIRING)

Server

Knoxville, TN · On-site

$2.13/hr

Have you previously been a waiter/waitress at a casual dining establishments? We are hiring immediately and you can start making money daily. As an Applebee's Server, there is a team around to help ...

Server

Oak Ridge, TN · On-site

$2.13/hr

Have you previously been a waiter/waitress at a casual dining establishments? We are hiring immediately and you can start making money daily. As an Applebee's Server, there is a team around to help ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Waitress information

See Oak Ridge, TN salary details

$5

$15

$27

How much do waitress jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average hourly pay for waitress in Oak Ridge, TN is $15.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $11.01 and $16.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the duties and responsibilities of a waitress?

A waitress is responsible for taking customer orders, serving food and beverages, and ensuring a pleasant dining experience. They greet guests, answer questions about the menu, and relay special requests to the kitchen staff. Waitresses also handle payments, clear tables, and maintain cleanliness in their section. Good communication skills, a friendly attitude, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are essential for this role.

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

To thrive as a Waitress, you need excellent customer service skills, basic math abilities, and familiarity with food safety standards, typically requiring only a high school diploma or equivalent. Knowledge of point-of-sale (POS) systems and food handling certifications are often required in restaurants. Strong communication, teamwork, and multitasking abilities help Waitresses stand out by ensuring efficient service and positive guest experiences. These skills are critical for maintaining customer satisfaction, handling busy shifts, and supporting a smooth restaurant operation.

What are common challenges waitresses face during busy shifts, and how can they manage them?

Waitresses often encounter challenges such as handling multiple tables at once, managing special requests, and ensuring prompt service during peak hours. Effective time management, clear communication with kitchen and bar staff, and prioritizing tasks are essential skills for navigating busy periods. Developing a strong memory for orders and staying calm under pressure helps maintain high-quality service and customer satisfaction. Many establishments also encourage teamwork among waitstaff to support each other when the restaurant is particularly busy.

What is the difference between Waitress vs Bartender?

AspectWaitressBartender
CredentialsNone required, but food safety and customer service training helpfulAlcohol server permit/license often required
Work EnvironmentRestaurants, cafes, casual diningBars, pubs, nightclubs
Job DutiesTaking orders, serving food and drinks, customer serviceMixing drinks, serving alcohol, engaging with customers
Industry UsageCommon in food service industryCommon in beverage and hospitality industry

While both waitresses and bartenders work in the hospitality industry serving customers, waitresses primarily focus on food service and customer care at tables, whereas bartenders specialize in preparing and serving alcoholic beverages at the bar. Both roles require strong customer service skills, but bartenders often need specific permits for alcohol service. Understanding these differences helps job seekers find the right position in the food and beverage industry.

What cities near Oak Ridge, TN are hiring for Waitress jobs?

Cities near Oak Ridge, TN with the most Waitress job openings:

Infographic showing various Waitress job openings in Oak Ridge, TN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 56% Full Time, 42% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $31,411 per year, or $15.1 per hour.

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 18 days ago


Job description

At Waffle House, we are not in the food business. We are in the People Business and we are hiring immediately for full time and part time servers (all shifts). 

Being in the People Business, we don’t just take care of our Customers. We take care of our people. Since 1955, we have provided a fulfilling, fun and rewarding career.

Why join us?

  1. With our best-in-class training, you’ll earn well above what you might earn as a Server at other similar restaurants.
  2. Paid Time Off, Medical, Dental, Vision, and Life Insurance available
  3. Flexible schedules – Full time or Part time, Day or Night shift / Overnight shift
  4. Opportunities to advance to supervisor or management positions
  5. 401k with company matching available
  6. You take home tips daily. Direct deposit and pay card available for weekly payout.

The Role:

As a server (waiter / waitress), your job is all about delivering the Waffle House experience to your Customers.

  1. You can expect to be on your feet, doing everything from taking orders to making sure our restaurant is clean and inviting
  2. We have a team environment but you will not have to share tips
  3. Our busiest time is the weekends, - where you can take home the most tip money. So, we’ll ask you to be available to work weekends and holidays

Requirements:

  1. Entry level, no experience required
  2. Must have a positive and friendly attitude
  3. Teens welcome but must be 18 years old + 

We are a strong, growing company dedicated to our Customers and Associates. We are hiring and would love to talk to you about being on our team.