Busser Salary in Alexandria, VA
In Alexandria, VA, Bussers earn approximately $14.87 per hour, which amounts to about $594.80 per week, $2,577.47 per month, and $30,929.60 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Alexandria is growing steadily at around 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for individuals entering this field in the area.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Alexandria, VA?
Bussers’ salaries in Alexandria, VA, can vary depending on experience, employer, and establishment type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.41 | $496.40 | $2,139.47 | $25,716.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.42 | $616.80 | $2,657.60 | $31,353.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.64 | $825.60 | $3,561.60 | $42,931.20 |
Do Bussers in Alexandria Earn Tips?
Bussers typically do earn tips, often shared from servers or directly from customers. They can make an additional approximately $2 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant’s tipping practices and customer volume, which helps supplement their base pay.
Busser Salary in Alexandria, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn about $13.90 per hour with an annual salary of around $28,912.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Alexandria earn a higher wage at approximately $14.87 per hour and $30,929.60 annually, reflecting the area's local economy and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Alexandria, VA for Bussers
Nearby areas offer varied pay rates for Bussers, including:
- Reston: $18.46 per hour
- Woodbridge: $17.63 per hour
Bussers working in Reston and Woodbridge can expect to earn above the average pay in Alexandria, with Reston providing the highest hourly wage among these locations.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Alexandria, VA?
Several important factors impact the earnings of a Busser in Alexandria:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers often command higher wages and better tip shares.
- Skills and Efficiency: Strong multitasking and communication skills can improve job performance and salary.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants often pay more and provide greater tip opportunities than casual eateries.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer higher compensation due to demand.
- Local Economy: Alexandria's cost of living affects wage levels compared to other regions.
How To Become a Busser in Alexandria, VA
Becoming a Busser in Alexandria involves a few key steps:
- Gain Basic Experience: Entry-level opportunities often require no formal education, making it accessible for many starting in hospitality.
- Consider Hospitality Education: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Northern Virginia Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at George Mason University can provide valuable industry knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) increase employability by demonstrating knowledge of food safety and responsible alcohol service.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong communication, teamwork, and attentiveness improve job performance and promotion prospects.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Alexandria, VA
Some of the key employers recruiting Bussers in Alexandria include:
- Clyde's Restaurant Group
- T.G.I Fridays
- Morrison Healthcare
Establishments That Bussers in Alexandria Work At
Bussers are commonly employed in various types of dining establishments that affect their earnings potential:
- Casual Dining: Moderate wages and steady tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual: Often lower wages with smaller or no tips.
- Fine Dining: Higher base pay and significantly better tipping potential, resulting in higher overall earnings.
- Hotels and Banquet Halls: May offer stable employment with possible benefits.
The nature of the establishment plays a pivotal role in determining a Busser’s compensation package and job responsibilities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Alexandria, VA for Bussers
If you are interested in roles similar to Busser, the following positions are common alternatives or next career steps:
These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Banquet Server positions—all of which share similar hospitality demands and may offer different salary scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Alexandria, VA
Bussers should be familiar with local and federal labor laws and tax responsibilities to navigate their employment rights and obligations effectively.
- Virginia's official government website provides resources on state labor laws at Virginia.gov.
- Details on federal labor laws can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor website.