Busser Salary in Burlington, VT
Bussers in Burlington, VT, in 2026, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Burlington is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality and restaurant sectors.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Burlington, VT?
The salary of a Busser in Burlington varies by experience level, type of establishment, and individual employer. Below is a breakdown of typical wages at different stages of a Busser's career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $26,960.00 |
Do Bussers in Burlington Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips in addition to their wages, depending on the restaurant's tipping policies. They can earn approximately $2 to $5 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income. This makes working as a Busser potentially more lucrative in high-volume or upscale venues where tipping is generous.
Busser Salary in Burlington vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of about $11.00 per hour, or roughly $22,880 per year.
Burlington's Busser salaries align closely with the national averages, reflecting comparable cost of living and industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Burlington for Bussers
Nearby areas pay slightly different wages for Bussers:
- Downtown: $12.00 per hour
- South End: $11.50 per hour
Bussers in Downtown Burlington can expect slightly better pay compared to other neighborhoods, likely due to higher restaurant traffic and more upscale dining options.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Burlington?
Several factors influence how much a Busser can earn in Burlington:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers are often rewarded with higher pay and better shifts.
- Skills and Work Ethic: Bussers known for efficiency, teamwork, and reliability may earn raises or bonuses.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants generally pay more compared to casual or fast-casual spots.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher wages or increased tips.
- Location: Bussers working in prime districts like Downtown Burlington tend to earn better wages.
How To Become a Busser in Burlington
If you are interested in becoming a Busser in Burlington, consider the following steps to improve your chances of employment and growth in the field.
Formal Training: While a high school diploma is often sufficient to start, pursuing culinary or hospitality education can be beneficial. Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Community College of Vermont provide foundational skills useful for hospitality careers, including bussing.
The Hospitality Management Certificate at University of Vermont also offers education on restaurant operations and customer service, which can enhance career opportunities.
Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures knowledge of critical food safety practices. The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification teaches responsible alcohol service, a valuable asset in establishments serving alcoholic beverages.
Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level roles in restaurants or hotels and learning on the job is common. Demonstrating reliability and a strong work ethic can lead to upward mobility.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Burlington
Burlington's restaurant scene offers several popular employers for Bussers:
- Farmhouse Tap & Grill
- Hen of the Wood
- Leunig's Bistro
Establishments That Bussers in Burlington Work At
Bussers are employed in a variety of dining environments including:
- Casual Dining: These restaurants typically offer steady work but may pay closer to minimum wage, with tips being a significant income component.
- Fast Casual: Bussers here often work in faster-paced settings with lower hourly wages but possibly higher turnover opportunities.
- Fine Dining: Upscale establishments tend to pay higher wages and provide better tipping opportunities, increasing overall compensation.
The type and prestige of the establishment can meaningfully affect a Busser's salary and working conditions.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Burlington for Bussers
For those interested in careers similar to bussing, here are some related roles to consider:
These include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Cashier roles, all of which share responsibilities in the hospitality and restaurant industries and offer different salary potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Burlington
Bussers should understand applicable labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and manage compensation appropriately.
- For Vermont-specific employment regulations, visit the State of Vermont Department of Labor website.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, refer to the U.S. Department of Labor website.