Cashier, restaurant

What does a cashier in a restaurant do – tasks and work environment

A cashier in a restaurant is responsible for payment handling and customer service in a dining environment. Tasks include taking orders, registering purchases in the cash register system, handling cash and card payments, and providing guests with information about menus and offers. Customer contact, accuracy, and service orientation are central parts of the job. The work environment is often characterized by a fast pace, especially during lunch and dinner times. The cashier works closely with kitchen and serving staff to ensure a smooth flow and a positive guest experience.

Wage development over time

Over the past three years, cashiers in restaurants have experienced steady and positive wage growth. The average salary was 27,900 SEK in 2022, increased to 29 300 SEK in 2023, and has now reached 30 100 SEK in 2024. This represents a total increase of about 8% during this period. The wage increase has been slightly higher than the general inflation rate, which can be explained by increased demand for service staff after the pandemic and overall pressure on wages within the hotel and restaurant sector. Meanwhile, gender differences are small; women earn 99% of what men do. The salary range is influenced by factors such as experience, education level, and geographical location.

Cashier, restaurant salary – complete overview

• Average salary: 30 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 27,000 SEK/month (men), 29,100 SEK/month (women)
• Highest salary: 32,200 SEK/month (men), 30,800 SEK/month (women)
• Hourly wage: 181 SEK/hour (hourly employee, average 166 hours/month)
• Gender differences: Women earn 99% of what men do (men: 30 300 SEK, women: 30 000 SEK)
• Regional differences: The highest wages are found within regional sectors

Education and qualifications

To work as a cashier in a restaurant, no formal education is generally required, but employers prefer applicants who have completed high school, preferably with a focus on commerce, hospitality, or service. Practical experience in the restaurant industry, good language skills, and digital familiarity are advantageous. Many employers offer internal training and onboarding, especially for younger or newly graduated applicants.

• High school education: Business and administration program or Restaurant and Food Service program (3 years)
• Internal training: On-the-job introduction and training are often provided
• Prerequisites: Basic Swedish and mathematics skills
• Certifications: Cash register training or food handling education can be advantageous
• Tips: Early internships or part-time jobs during high school provide valuable experience

Common benefits and compensations

Benefits for cashiers in restaurants often include additional pay for evening and weekend work, staff discounts on food and drinks, and access to work uniforms. Some employers also offer wellness allowances, paid training, or performance bonuses. Vacation pay and collective insurance agreements are common within the industry.

Competition and challenges

The competition for cashier positions in restaurants is high, especially in larger cities where many seek service jobs. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, there is a nationwide surplus of cashiers, which can make it difficult to find permanent positions. Digitalization and self-service solutions are increasing demands for flexibility and technological understanding. Physically demanding work and fast-paced shifts require endurance and stress tolerance. For those wishing to develop within the profession, continuous skill building and customer engagement are important.

Tips for aspiring restaurant cashiers

To succeed as a cashier in a restaurant, having a strong service orientation and enjoying social environments where guest interaction is central is beneficial. Being meticulous under stress is important, especially when handling money and orders, so practice maintaining focus even when the pace is high. Flexibility is a valuable asset since tasks can vary quickly – be ready to help where needed and show that you are a team player. An interest in technology facilitates working with cash systems and digital ordering tools. Initiative is appreciated, so take responsibility for solving problems and contributing to a positive team atmosphere. Good communication skills are essential for understanding customer needs and collaborating with colleagues. Lastly, reliability is highly valued, as employers often seek staff who can deliver consistently even under pressure.

Key facts about restaurant cashiers

• Salary range: 27,000–32,200 SEK/month
• Average salary: 30 100 SEK/month
• Educational requirements: High school education recommended but not mandatory
• Typical work pattern: Shift work, often evenings and weekends
• Demand: 550 job openings within the profession (May 2024)

Career paths and future outlook

After three to five years as a restaurant cashier, opportunities may arise to move into supervisory roles such as shift leader, restaurant manager, or cashier trainer. Some choose to further their education within the restaurant or hotel industry, for example, to become serving staff or work in event and conference management. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service, the demand for cashiers is expected to remain stable over the next five years, but there is a national surplus of labor in the field. For those looking to develop their careers long-term, experience as a cashier provides a solid foundation for continued growth within the service and sales sectors.

Frequently asked questions about restaurant cashiers

• What does a cashier in a restaurant earn?
  - The average salary is 30 100 SEK per month, with a range between 27,000 and 32,200 SEK depending on experience and sector.
• How do gender differences look in wages?
  - Women earn 99% of what men do, which corresponds to 30 000 SEK for women and 30 300 SEK for men.
• What education is required to become a restaurant cashier?
  - High school education in commerce or hospitality is recommended, but many employers offer internal training.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Demand for cashiers is expected to be unchanged over the next five years, but currently there is a surplus of labor.
• Are there opportunities for career development?
  - Yes, experienced cashiers can advance to shift leader, restaurant manager, or further training within the industry.
• What are the working hours?
  - Shift work is common, with work during evenings and weekends depending on the restaurant's opening hours.
• What is the most common hourly wage for a restaurant cashier?
  - The hourly wage for a temporary worker averages 181 SEK (based on 166 hours/month).