Busser Salary in Clearwater, FL
Bussers in Clearwater, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $18.34 per hour, which translates to about $733.60 per week, $3,178.93 per month, and $38,147.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Clearwater is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and an expanding market for this hospitality role year over year.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Clearwater, FL?
The salary of a Busser in Clearwater can vary depending on the level of experience and employer, but here is a typical pay scale based on experience tiers.
| 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) | $18.34 | $733.60 | $3,178.93 | $38,147.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $26.59 | $1,063.60 | $4,595.73 | $55,267.20 |
Do Bussers in Clearwater 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's volume and tipping culture. Tips can significantly supplement their overall income.
Busser Salary in Clearwater vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.20 per hour, which amounts to about $29,536 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Clearwater make noticeably more at $18.34 per hour and $38,147.20 annually, reflecting local market conditions and perhaps the influence of a robust hospitality sector in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Clearwater for Bussers
Nearby areas offer competitive salaries for Bussers:
- Downtown Clearwater: $19.50 per hour
- Clearwater Beach: $20.00 per hour
Bussers working near the beach or downtown areas generally earn higher wages due to the tourist traffic and upscale establishments.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Clearwater?
Several factors affect how much a Busser can earn in Clearwater FL:
- Experience: More seasoned Bussers tend to command higher wages and better tips due to efficiency and reliability.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and resorts often pay higher base wages and offer more tipping opportunities.
- Hours and Shifts: Bussers working evenings, weekends, or holidays might receive premium pay or higher tip volumes.
- Skills and Efficiency: Competitive bussers who can multitask and maintain speed and quality are typically more valued.
- Local Demand: Busy Clearwater tourist seasons can drive demand and temporarily boost earnings.
How To Become a Busser in Clearwater
Starting a career as a Busser in Clearwater can be straightforward with some focused steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Engage in entry-level training to understand restaurant workflows, often available on the job.
- Consider Culinary and Hospitality Courses: Programs like Pinellas Technical College Culinary Arts Program or St. Petersburg College Hospitality and Tourism Management offer valuable skills that can enhance job prospects.
- Obtain Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification validate food safety awareness and are increasingly requested by employers.
- Develop Physical Stamina and Customer Service Skills: These are essential for the fast-paced demands of bussing.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Clearwater
Several large restaurant chains and local establishments actively seek Bussers, including:
- Applebee's
- Olive Garden
- Outback Steakhouse
- Red Lobster
- Chili's
Establishments That Bussers in Clearwater Work At
Bussers in Clearwater often find employment at various types of restaurants and establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining: These places are major employers offering steady shifts and consistent tips.
- Fast Casual: Typically offer faster-paced environments with moderate tips and wages.
- Fine Dining: Can provide higher wages and tips, but usually require more polished service skills.
- Resorts and Hotels: Often pay competitive wages and provide benefits due to their scale and clientele.
The type of establishment greatly influences the total compensation, especially regarding tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Clearwater for Bussers
If you're interested in roles similar to Bussers, consider careers like:
These include Server, Dishwasher, and Backwaiter roles, which share overlapping duties and environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Clearwater
Understanding applicable labor laws and tax regulations is crucial for Bussers working in Clearwater.
- The Federal Department of Labor site outlines federal labor standards and regulations.
- Visit Florida's official website for state-specific labor laws, wage rules, and employment resources.
- Pinellas County's local government site provides additional information on local labor regulations and services.