Busser Salary in Arlington, VA
Bussers in Arlington, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.98 per hour, which translates to about $599.20 per week, $2,596.53 per month, and $31,158.40 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Arlington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and a healthy outlook in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Arlington, VA?
The salary of a Busser in Arlington varies with experience and workplace standards, but the following table provides a breakdown of typical earnings based on different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.15 | $486.00 | $2,106.00 | $25,272.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.98 | $599.20 | $2,596.53 | $31,158.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.49 | $739.60 | $3,197.87 | $38,499.20 |
Do Bussers in Arlington Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips in addition to their base salary. In Arlington, Bussers can potentially make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift, which can significantly boost their overall income.
Busser Salary in Arlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.25 per hour, translating to approximately $29,640 per year.
Compared to this, Bussers in Arlington earn a slightly higher hourly wage at about $14.98 per hour and $31,158.40 annually, reflecting the area's living cost and dining industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arlington for Bussers
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Bussers include:
- Rosslyn: $15.50 per hour
- Clarendon: $17.60 per hour
Working in Clarendon offers Bussers notably better pay, making it an attractive option for those willing to commute from Arlington.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Arlington?
Several factors impact how much a Busser can earn in Arlington:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers typically earn higher wages and may receive better tips.
- Skills: Efficiency, customer interaction, and reliability are valued and can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy venues tend to pay better and offer more tipping opportunities.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher tips and possible shift premiums.
- Location within Arlington: Salary can vary between neighborhoods and dining districts, with areas like Clarendon paying more.
How To Become a Busser in Arlington
Entering the role of Busser requires basic hospitality and customer service skills. Here are some proven steps to help you get started:
- Gain Foundational Knowledge: Taking the Culinary Arts Program at Arlington Career Center can equip you with essential food preparation and safety skills.
- Understanding Hospitality Management: The Hospitality Management Program at Northern Virginia Community College offers valuable insight into restaurant operations and service standards beneficial for Bussers.
- Obtain Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure knowledge of proper food safety practices, a common employer requirement.
- Responsible Alcohol Service: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can be advantageous in venues serving alcohol, enhancing your employability.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Many Bussers start with entry-level positions in casual dining or fast casual restaurants to develop practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Arlington
Arlington hosts a variety of popular dining locations actively seeking Bussers, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- California Pizza Kitchen
- Wilson Hardware
- Buena Vida - Clarendon
- Sunrise Senior Living
Establishments That Bussers in Arlington Work At
Bussers typically find opportunities in diverse restaurant formats, which influence their pay:
- Casual Restaurants: Common employers offering steady hourly pay plus tips.
- Fast Casual Venues: Often have less tipping, but offer consistent hours and training opportunities.
- Fine Dining: Usually pay higher wages and provide larger tips, rewarding quality service.
- Hotels and Senior Living Facilities: Provide stable employment with some benefits but may have varied tipping practices.
Salary potential is closely tied to the establishment’s prestige, clientele, and tipping culture.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arlington for Bussers
If you are interested in roles similar to Busser, consider these related positions that offer varying responsibilities and salaries.
These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Server, roles that complement Busser duties in restaurant settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Arlington
Understanding applicable labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Bussers working in Arlington, VA.
- Refer to the Federal Department of Labor website for nationwide labor laws and employment standards.
- Visit the Virginia state website for detailed information on state labor regulations and resources.
- Check local regulations on employment and business practices at the Arlington local government website.