Busser Salary in Charleston, WV
Bussers in Charleston, WV, in 2026, earn approximately $11.45 per hour, which translates to about $458.00 per week, $1,984.67 per month, and $23,816.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Charleston is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive employment prospects and a stable growth trend for this entry-level hospitality position.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Charleston, WV?
The salary of a Busser in Charleston can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at 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 Charleston Earn Tips?
Bussers typically do earn tips as part of their compensation, often receiving an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant and shift. Tips can significantly supplement their base pay, providing a meaningful boost to overall earnings.
Busser Salary in Charleston vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $13.90 per hour, translating to about $28,912 annually.
When compared to the national average, Bussers in Charleston earn somewhat less, at about $11.45 per hour and $23,816 annually.
This difference may reflect variations in cost of living and market demand between Charleston and other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Charleston for Bussers
When examining nearby neighborhoods, the hourly pay rates for Bussers include:
- Downtown Charleston: $12.00 per hour
- South Hills: $11.80 per hour
Areas like Downtown Charleston offer slightly higher wages, potentially due to a greater concentration of upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Charleston?
Several factors can influence how much a Busser earns in Charleston:
- Experience and Work Ethic: More experienced Bussers who work efficiently often command higher wages or better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, and busy venues typically pay more than casual diners or fast-food chains.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with higher tips or shift differential pay.
- Skills and Responsibilities: Bussers who take on additional responsibilities, such as assisting servers or handling cleaning duties, may earn more.
- Local Economic Conditions: The regional cost of living and restaurant demand affect wage levels.
How To Become a Busser in Charleston
Becoming a Busser in Charleston involves a combination of practical skills and some formal training:
- Gain Basic Culinary and Hospitality Knowledge: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Carver Career Center provide foundational skills in food preparation and kitchen operations.
- Understand Hospitality Management: The Hospitality Management Program at BridgeValley Community and Technical College offers education in broader hospitality operations, which can be helpful for career growth.
- Acquire Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining a Food Handler's Permit is often mandatory, ensuring compliance with safe food handling practices.
- Consider Earning ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized certifies knowledge in food safety and sanitation standards, enhancing employability.
- Gain On-The-Job Experience: Entry-level jobs in restaurants, cafeterias, or hotels can provide valuable experience and help develop customer service skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Charleston
Several prominent hospitality employers in Charleston frequently hire Bussers, including:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Olive Garden
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Bussers in Charleston Work At
Bussers typically work in a variety of dining establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay and steady tips, often ideal for beginners.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Generally lower pay but faster work pace and learning opportunities.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Higher pay and better tips due to upscale service expectations.
- Hotels and Banquet Halls: Larger operations sometimes provide benefits and steadier income.
The type of establishment can have a notable impact on a Busser’s overall earnings, especially through tips and hourly wage differences.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Charleston for Bussers
For those interested in positions similar to Bussers, there are several roles to consider:
These include Backwaiter, Food Runner, and Dishwasher—roles that similarly support the dining environment and can offer growth pathways in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Charleston
Bussers in Charleston should be informed about applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure their rights and responsibilities are met.
- Federal labor regulations can be found at dol.gov, which provide guidance on wages, hours, and working conditions.
- West Virginia’s labor resources are available at workforcewv.org, offering specific state employment and training support.
- Local Charleston regulations and services can be accessed via charlestonwv.gov, helping to navigate city-specific labor concerns.