Busser in Cedar Rapids, IA
Bussers in Cedar Rapids, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $12.26 per hour, which translates to about $490.40 per week, $2,125.07 per month, and $25,500.80 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Cedar Rapids is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the hospitality industry locally.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Cedar Rapids, IA?
The salary of a Busser in Cedar Rapids can vary depending on experience and specific employers, but here is a general breakdown of earnings across experience levels.
| 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 | $27,040.00 |
Do Bussers in Cedar Rapids Earn Tips?
Bussers typically do earn tips, often receiving an additional approximately $5 to $10 per hour from customer gratuities, which can significantly boost their overall income in restaurants that include tips in their compensation structure.
Busser Salary in Cedar Rapids vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Cedar Rapids earn slightly less, at about $12.26 per hour and $25,500.80 annually.
This difference can be attributed to the lower cost of living and local market conditions in Cedar Rapids compared to some other regions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cedar Rapids for Bussers
Bussers working in nearby areas can expect some variation in wages:
- Downtown: $13.50 per hour
- Czech Village: $13.00 per hour
These areas offer slightly higher wages, reflecting their busy dining scenes and demand for hospitality staff.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Cedar Rapids?
Several factors contribute to how much a Busser can earn in Cedar Rapids:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers typically command higher wages as they are more efficient and reliable.
- Skills: Strong customer service and multitasking skills can increase earning potential, including tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy downtown venues generally offer better pay and tips compared to casual dining spots.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may provide higher tip opportunities and sometimes shift differentials.
- Local Demand: Areas with more active restaurant scenes may offer increased wages and job openings.
How To Become a Busser in Cedar Rapids
Pursuing a career as a Busser in Cedar Rapids is accessible with the right preparation:
- On-the-Job Training: Most Bussers start with no formal education but benefit greatly from learning operational and customer service skills directly on the job.
- Industry-Specific Training: Programs such as the Iowa Restaurant Association Training provide valuable certifications and knowledge for restaurant staff, including Bussers.
- Food Safety Knowledge: Obtaining a ServSafe Food Handler Certification can enhance employability by proving awareness of proper food handling practices.
- Responsible Service Training: The Iowa Alcoholic Beverages Division Training is also beneficial when working in venues serving alcohol, ensuring compliance and safety.
- Culinary Foundations: For those interested in expanding skills, the Kirkwood Community College Culinary Arts Program offers culinary training, which may open further opportunities in restaurant operations.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Cedar Rapids
Several notable employers actively seek Bussers in the Cedar Rapids area:
- Applebee's
- Outback Steakhouse
- Biaggi's
Establishments That Bussers in Cedar Rapids Work At
Bussers typically find employment in a variety of hospitality establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often have moderate wages and provide steady tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Bussers here handle quicker table turnover; pay may be lower but offers experience.
- Fine Dining Venues: These establishments often offer higher wages and more substantial tips due to the upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Event Venues: They usually offer stable employment with consistent wages and possible benefits.
The type of establishment impacts both hourly pay and tip earning potential, with more upscale and busy environments tending to provide higher overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cedar Rapids for Bussers
If you are interested in roles similar to a Busser, there are several related positions in the hospitality industry you might explore:
These include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Cashier positions, which share related responsibilities and offer diverse career paths within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Cedar Rapids
Understanding local labor laws and tax regulations is important for Bussers in Cedar Rapids to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- On the Official website of the State of Iowa you can find information about state labor regulations, employment standards, and worker rights.
- For federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website offers comprehensive resources on labor standards and wage laws.