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Busser Salary in Des-Plaines, IL

Bussers in Des-Plaines, IL, in 2026, earn approximately $11.83 per hour, which translates to about $473.20 per week, $2,050.53 per month, and $24,606.40 per year.

The job market for Bussers in Des-Plaines is showing positive growth, with demand increasing at about 5% per year. This indicates a steadily expanding need for Bussers in the area’s hospitality industry.

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Average Busser Salary in Des Plaines, IL:
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$11.83
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$23.66
Market Average
$11.83

How Much Does a Busser Make in Des-Plaines, IL?

The earnings of a Busser in Des-Plaines depend on experience and employer, but here's a breakdown by experience level:

Experience levelHourly payWeekly payMonthly payYearly pay
Entry-level (~25th percentile)$10.00$400.00$1,733.33$20,800.00
Mid-level (average)$11.83$473.20$2,050.53$24,606.40
Top earners (90th percentile)$13.00$520.00$2,246.67$27,040.00

Do Bussers in Des-Plaines Earn Tips?

Bussers typically do earn tips, though the amount can vary by establishment. In Des-Plaines, a Busser can expect to earn an extra $4 to $6 per hour in tips on average, supplementing their base wage significantly.

Busser Salary in Des-Plaines vs. National Average

Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $11.00 per hour or about $22,880 per year.

Compared to the national average, Bussers in Des-Plaines earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $11.83 and an annual salary of approximately $24,606.40. This higher wage may reflect the area's cost of living and demand for hospitality workers.

Highest-Paying Areas Near Des-Plaines for Bussers

Nearby areas can offer different pay scales for Bussers, such as:

  • Lincolnwood: $29.71 per hour
  • Elmhurst: $19.42 per hour

These figures suggest that Bussers commuting to Lincolnwood can potentially earn considerably more, followed by Elmhurst, both offering attractive opportunities relative to Des-Plaines.

High-Paying Cities for Bussers

The table below showcases four of the best cities to work in as a Busser. You can see the average annual wage for a Busser in each of these cities.

City

Avg Salary

Avg Hourly Wage

Chicago, IL

$32,819

$15.78

Los Angeles, CA

$28,230

$13.57

Miami, FL

$25,223

$12.13

NYC, NY

$33,498

$16.10

What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Des-Plaines?

The salary of a Busser in Des-Plaines is affected by several key factors:

  • Experience: More experienced Bussers usually command higher pay as they become more efficient and trusted by their employers.
  • Skills and Reliability: Strong interpersonal skills and dependability can lead to better performance and wage increases.
  • Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and busy hotels often pay more compared to casual or fast-food settings.
  • Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might offer higher pay rates or more tips due to busier service periods.
  • Location and Demand: Areas with a higher cost of living or greater tourism may provide higher wages to attract workers.

How To Become a Busser in Des-Plaines

Becoming a Busser in Des-Plaines involves several steps to prepare for the role and improve career prospects:

  • Education and Training: While formal education isn’t always required, programs such as the Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in culinary skills and restaurant operations, which is valuable for Bussers.
  • Hospitality Knowledge: Enrolling in the Triton College Hospitality Industry Administration Program can provide an understanding of food service management to enhance a Busser's capabilities.
  • Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining the Illinois Food Handler Certification is required for all food service employees in Illinois, ensuring safe food handling practices.
  • Additional Credentials: The nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification further complements a Busser's qualifications by emphasizing food safety standards.
  • Gaining Experience: Many Bussers start with entry-level restaurant jobs or internships to learn the necessary skills and build credibility.

Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Des-Plaines

Several well-known establishments in Des-Plaines are frequently hiring Bussers, including:

  • Dave & Buster's
  • Fogo de Chão
  • Hugo's Frog Bar & Chop House
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Establishments That Bussers in Des-Plaines Work At

Bussers in Des-Plaines work across various types of hospitality venues such as:

  • Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady work but may have lower wage scales and tip pools.
  • Fast Casual Venues: Provide faster-paced environments with potentially less tipping but more consistent hours.
  • Hotels and Resorts: Tend to offer higher wages as part of broader hospitality teams and sometimes benefits.
  • Fine Dining Restaurants: Usually provide the highest earning potential through elevated base pay and larger tips.

The type of establishment significantly impacts a Busser’s earnings by influencing both base wages and tips.

Related Hospitality Jobs in Des-Plaines for Bussers

If you are exploring careers related to the Busser role, there are several similar positions in the hospitality industry that might interest you:

Job Title

Avg Salary

Backwaiter

$32,636

Food Runner

$29,691

These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Food Runner positions, among others that share similar work environments and responsibilities.

Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Des-Plaines

As a Busser in Des-Plaines, IL, understanding your labor rights and tax obligations is essential for a secure work experience.