Busser Salary in Cambridge, MA
Bussers in Cambridge, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.96 per hour, which translates to about $758.40 per week, $3,286.40 per month, and $39,436.80 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Cambridge is looking up with a growth rate of 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and steady job opportunities in the hospitality sector for this role.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Busser in Cambridge varies depending on experience and specific employer, but the following breakdown offers a clear view of potential earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.96 | $758.40 | $3,286.40 | $39,436.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.63 | $1,145.20 | $4,964.53 | $59,570.40 |
Do Bussers in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Bussers generally do earn tips as part of their compensation in many dining establishments. On average, a Busser can earn an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the type of restaurant and shift, supplementing their base salary significantly.
Busser Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average hourly wage of about $14.50, which translates to roughly $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Bussers in Cambridge earn substantially more, with an hourly wage around $18.96 and an annual salary nearing $39,436.80. This higher pay may reflect the local cost of living and the demand for experienced hospitality workers in the Cambridge area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Bussers
Nearby cities offer slightly different pay scales for Bussers:
- Beverly: $20.00 per hour
- Westwood: $19.74 per hour
Bussers in Beverly can expect the highest pay among these nearby locations, while Westwood offers competitive rates close to Cambridge.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several key factors contribute to the variation in Busser salaries in Cambridge:
- Experience Level: More experienced Bussers with proven skills in fast-paced settings tend to negotiate higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Bussers who develop multitasking skills and speed can increase their earning potential, including tip income.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end or busy restaurants usually pay more and provide better tipping opportunities than casual or fast food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may command higher pay due to increased customer traffic.
- Certifications and Education: Although not always required, knowledge of food safety and hospitality training can enhance a Busser's credentials.
How To Become a Busser in Cambridge
Starting a career as a Busser can be straightforward but enhanced with certain training and certifications.
- Many start on-the-job and learn essential skills directly through work experience.
- Completing culinary or hospitality programs such as those provided by Cambridge School of Culinary Arts can improve understanding of food service operations.
- Boston Bartenders School also offers training that can help Bussers expand their beverage service knowledge, increasing their employability.
- Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrates knowledge of food safety, which is often required for food service roles.
- The TIPS Certification (Training for Intervention Procedures) is useful for understanding responsible alcohol service and may benefit Bussers in some establishments.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Cambridge
Cambridge hosts several well-known employers actively seeking skilled Bussers:
- The Charles Hotel
- The Cheesecake Factory
- The Friendly Toast
Establishments That Bussers in Cambridge Work At
Bussers typically find employment across a range of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay and busy environments provide good opportunities for tips and learning.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Faster paced with generally lower wages, but higher volume can mean consistent hours.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher wages and better tipping potential, though expectations for performance are stricter.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: Often pay higher wages and provide stable employment with potential for advancement within hospitality.
The type of establishment directly affects not only base pay but also the opportunity to earn tips and grow professionally.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Bussers
Those interested in related positions to Busser may consider opportunities that involve similar responsibilities or offer career progression pathways.
These roles include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Banquet Server, all of which involve customer service tasks within hospitality settings similar to those of a Busser.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Cambridge
Bussers should be mindful of both state and federal labor laws and tax rules that affect their employment and income.
- You can find detailed information on Massachusetts labor laws and employment standards at the Massachusetts government website.
- For federal labor regulations and resources, the U.S. Department of Labor's official site provides extensive guidance.