The 10 Best Tipped Jobs (With Salaries And Skills Needed)

Tipped jobs offer a rewarding entry-level career path that can exceed minimum wage, providing a lucrative opportunity for many. The potential for financial gain in these roles often comes from the appreciation shown by customers, which is less common in conventional professional environments.

This article presents a comprehensive list of the ten best tipped jobs to kickstart your career in the service industry.

Key Takeaways:

• The leading tipped professions are waiter/host, delivery driver, and nanny.

• Success in tipped roles hinges on exceptional customer service and communication skills.

• Tipped positions are an excellent way to supplement your income with minimal training required.

Top 10 Best Tipped Jobs

1. Host-Waiter
   Average Annual Salary: $20,504

   Host and waiter positions are among the most prevalent tipped jobs, with tipping often considered customary. Customers generally leave a standard tip, regardless of service quality. However, pay structures can vary widely based on state regulations and employer policies, including tip pooling practices.

   It’s essential to familiarize yourself with the laws in your state regarding wages for tipped employees before pursuing a position as a waiter.

   Skills needed:

   • Exceptional customer service skills
   • Active listening abilities
   • Strong communication skills
   • Team collaboration
   • Multitasking capabilities
   • Organizational skills

   Find Host-Waiter jobs near me

2. Restaurant Delivery Person
   Average Annual Salary: N/A

   With the rise of food delivery platforms like DoorDash, Postmates, and UberEats, restaurant delivery jobs have become a significant source of tips. Anyone with a valid driver’s license can start delivering food, keeping 100% of their tips earned through these apps.

   This role offers flexibility in work hours. Depending on your location, you can expect to earn between $8 and $15 an hour, plus tips. Alternatively, traditional delivery options, such as working directly for restaurants, may yield cash tips.

   Skills needed:

   • Effective communication skills
   • Problem-solving abilities
   • Customer service expertise
   • Safe and efficient driving
   • Local area knowledge
   • Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments

3. Nanny or babysitter
   Average Annual Salary: $25,000

   While nannies and babysitters might not be the first roles people associate with tipping, they can be quite rewarding. If you enjoy working with children, this could be an ideal job for you. Nannies typically work more consistently than babysitters and can negotiate their pay based on the number of children and additional responsibilities.

   Compensation usually ranges from $15 to $20 per hour, with tips potentially reaching 20%.

   Skills needed:

   • Patience
   • Strong communication skills
   • Problem-solving abilities
   • Organizational capabilities
   • Physical endurance
   • Customer service skills

   Find Nanny jobs near me

4. Taxi Driver
   Average Annual Salary: $27,093

   The landscape of taxi driving has evolved significantly with the advent of ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft. Drivers can effectively become self-employed, choosing which fares to accept. Although traditional taxi companies still operate, they often provide a more stable fare flow compared to rideshare platforms. Tips typically range from 15% to 20% of the fare.

   Skills needed:

   • Excellent communication skills
   • Knowledge of local areas and routes
   • Strong customer service abilities
   • Safe driving practices
   • Time management skills
   • Vehicle maintenance knowledge

   Find Taxi driver jobs near me

5. Bartender
   Average Annual Salary: $22,000

   Bartending is a classic tipped profession, ideal for social and energetic individuals. Bartenders not only serve drinks but also create an inviting atmosphere for patrons. Knowledge of local nightlife and sports can enhance your ability to connect with customers and maximize tips, which typically average around $1 per drink or 20% of the total bill.

   Skills needed:

   • Strong communication skills
   • Good memory
   • Flexibility
   • Exceptional customer service
   • Teamwork abilities
   • Basic math skills

   Find Bartender jobs near me

6. Doorman
   Average Annual Salary: $24,699

   Doormen contribute to the ambiance of hotels and residential buildings, often receiving tips from residents or guests for their service. Their duties include greeting guests, providing information, and ensuring building security. Tips for doormen can range from $25 to $150 per guest, depending on the level of service provided.

   Skills needed:

   • Excellent customer service skills
   • Physical stamina
   • Strong communication skills
   • Attention to detail
   • Ability to manage crowds
   • Good memory

   Find Doorman jobs near me

7. Golf Caddie
   Average Annual Salary: $23,000

   Golf caddies play an essential role at golf courses, assisting players with their equipment and offering insights during play. Knowledge of the game and exceptional customer service skills are crucial in this role. Caddies can earn tips averaging $40 to $50 per player, depending on the quality of their service.

   Skills needed:

   • Strong customer service skills
   • Attention to detail
   • Communication skills
   • Problem-solving abilities
   • Knowledge of golf

   Find Golf Caddie jobs near me

8. Radio Disc Jockey
   Average Annual Salary: $60,886

   Radio DJs are essential for events like weddings and parties, often receiving tips for their services. DJs must understand the crowd’s musical preferences and operate sound equipment effectively. Tips can be earned during events and may range from $20 to $50 per hour, plus an additional 10% to 15% based on performance.

   Skills needed:

   • Excellent customer service skills
   • Good rhythm and music knowledge
   • Technical proficiency
   • Physical stamina
   • Strong networking skills

   Find Radio Disc Jockey jobs near me

9. Hotel Manager
   Average Annual Salary: $58,000

   Hotel managers may also receive tips from satisfied guests for their service. They oversee hotel operations, ensuring that guests have a pleasant stay. Floor managers can earn around $15 per hour, along with tips averaging 10% of the total bill.

   Skills needed:

   • Strong communication skills
   • Excellent customer service
   • Attention to detail
   • Leadership abilities
   • Flexibility
   • Team collaboration

   Find Hotel Manager jobs near me

10. Beautician or Barber
    Average Annual Salary: $27,000

    Becoming a beautician or barber often requires training or certification, but it can be a rewarding career for those passionate about beauty and hair care. Clients often show appreciation through tips, typically around 20% of the service cost.

    Skills needed:

    • Exceptional customer service skills
    • Time management abilities
    • Physical stamina
    • Knowledge of products
    • Attention to detail
    • Communication skills

    Find Beautician jobs near me

Best Tipped Jobs FAQ

1. What is the most common tipped job?

   A waiter or waitress is the most common tipped job. Most restaurants in the U.S. allow employees to receive tips in addition to their base pay. Depending on state laws, this may mean earning less than the national minimum wage if tips are included.

2. What industry receives the most tips?

   The service industry is the highest-tipped sector. Common roles include hotel floor managers, delivery drivers, and bartenders.

Final Thoughts

While some perceive tipped positions as low-paying service roles, these jobs can be financially rewarding, especially with minimal training requirements. Workers in the service industry often earn tips due to the value customers place on their services, leading to significant income potential in entry-level positions.

Concerns about inconsistent income are valid for those considering tipped roles. However, with dedication and a friendly demeanor, generating substantial earnings is achievable. Tipped jobs provide the flexibility to pursue personal interests while earning a living.

Author

Chris Kolmar

Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.