Busser Salary in Boulder, CO
Bussers in Boulder, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $14.07 per hour, which translates to about $562.80 per week, $2,438.80 per month, and $29,265.60 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Boulder is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding job market in the hospitality and restaurant industries.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Boulder, CO?
The salary of a Busser in Boulder can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.97 | $478.80 | $2,07 0.40 | $24,825.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.07 | $562.80 | $2,438.80 | $29,265.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.54 | $661.60 | $2,862.53 | $34,363.20 |
Do Bussers in Boulder Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. On average, a Busser in Boulder can collect approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the type of establishment and the volume of customers served. This can significantly increase their total earnings.
Busser Salary in Boulder vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of about $14.24 per hour, translating to roughly $29,619.20 annually.
When compared to the national average, Bussers in Boulder earn slightly less hourly at $14.07, which amounts to a yearly salary just below the national level. This difference reflects local market conditions and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Boulder for Bussers
Examining areas near Boulder, salaries for Bussers vary as follows:
- Downtown Boulder: $15.50 per hour
- Pearl Street Mall: $17.60 per hour
Bussers working in Pearl Street Mall tend to earn the highest wages nearby, benefitting from the bustling tourism and high-end dining options.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Boulder?
Several factors impact a Busser’s salary in Boulder, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bussers who work efficiently and have strong customer service skills tend to earn higher wages and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically pay better wages and offer more generous tipping opportunities than casual dining venues.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may pay more or offer greater tip potential due to higher customer volumes.
- Local Demand: Areas with vibrant tourism or high restaurant density may provide more job opportunities and better pay.
How To Become a Busser in Boulder
To start a career as a Busser in Boulder, aspiring individuals should consider a few key steps.
- Complete Hospitality and Customer Service Training: Programs like the Front Range Community College Culinary Arts Program and Boulder County Workforce Center Hospitality Training offer useful knowledge for restaurant roles, including bussing.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler and TIPS Certification can be highly beneficial, demonstrating understanding of health and safety regulations.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Bussers start with entry-level roles in casual dining to build experience and improve their interpersonal skills.
- Develop Good Communication Skills: Being attentive and clear with servers and guests enhances performance and may lead to better tips.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Boulder
Several well-known establishments in Boulder actively hire Bussers, including:
- St Julien Hotel & Spa
- Doug's Diner Boulder
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Bussers in Boulder Work At
Bussers typically find employment in a variety of restaurant and hospitality settings including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer steady work but may provide lower wages compared to fine dining.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Positions here might have faster pace and different tipping structures, affecting total earnings.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end hotels usually pay better wages and provide opportunities for higher tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments demand greater efficiency and professionalism and generally pay higher wages and tips.
The type of establishment significantly impacts both base pay and tip income for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Boulder for Bussers
If you are interested in related roles in the hospitality industry, consider these careers:
These include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Food Runner—roles with similar responsibilities in supporting restaurant operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Boulder
Bussers working in Boulder should be aware of relevant laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance.
- Check state-specific labor laws on the Official website of the State of Colorado for wage and employment rules.
- Local employment regulations are available at the City of Boulder's official website.
- Federal labor laws, including minimum wage and overtime, can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor's website.