Busser Salary in Fort Wayne, IN
Bussers in Fort Wayne, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $11.50 per hour, which translates to about $460.00 per week, $1,993.33 per month, and $23,920.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Fort Wayne is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities in the restaurant and hospitality sectors.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Fort Wayne, IN?
The salary of a Busser in Fort Wayne varies based on experience and skill. Below is a breakdown by experience level:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.50 | $460.00 | $1,983.33 | $23,920.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,426.67 | $29,120.00 |
Do Bussers in Fort Wayne Earn Tips?
Bussers typically do earn tips, which can significantly increase their overall income. On average, a Busser in Fort Wayne may earn an extra $5 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift.
Busser Salary in Fort Wayne vs. National Average
The national average salary for Bussers is around $12.00 per hour or about $24,960.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Fort Wayne earn slightly less, at $11.50 per hour and approximately $23,920.00 annually. This is fairly close and reflects the regional cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fort Wayne for Bussers
Nearby areas offer some variation in Busser salaries:
- Downtown: $12.00 per hour
- Northwest Fort Wayne: $11.80 per hour
Busser positions in Downtown Fort Wayne tend to pay the highest, likely due to busier dining scenes and higher-end establishments.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Fort Wayne?
Several key factors affect the salary of a Busser in Fort Wayne:
- Experience Level: Experienced Bussers with a track record of reliability may earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically pay more than casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timings: Evening and weekend shifts may offer additional compensation or higher tip potential.
- Location: Bussers working in busier or affluent neighborhoods tend to see better pay and tips.
- Skills: Bussers with strong customer service skills and efficiency moving quickly may be rewarded with higher pay.
How To Become a Busser in Fort Wayne
Starting a career as a Busser in Fort Wayne involves a few important steps:
- Gain Basic Hospitality Skills: Enroll in programs like the Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program, which includes food preparation and safety fundamentals beneficial for Bussers aiming to advance.
- Complete Training Programs: Fort Wayne Community Schools Adult Education offers hospitality training covering essential skills for restaurant staff, including Bussers.
- Obtain Certifications: Consider certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety.
- Alcohol Service Training: If working in establishments serving alcohol, Indiana Alcohol Server Training is often required to ensure compliance with state laws and responsible service.
- Seek Entry-Level Positions: Apply for Busser roles at casual and fine dining restaurants to gain experience and build your resume.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Fort Wayne
Several popular restaurant chains frequently hire Bussers in Fort Wayne, including:
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Applebee's
Establishments That Bussers in Fort Wayne Work At
Bussers work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work and a balanced tip income but moderate base wages.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Bussers here generally earn higher wages plus better tips due to more upscale clientele.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often busier environments but with slightly lower pay and tip potential.
- Hotels and Event Venues: These can offer higher pay and sometimes more consistent scheduling.
The type of establishment significantly affects earnings; fine dining spots typically provide the best overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fort Wayne for Bussers
If you are interested in pursuing roles similar to being a Busser, consider these careers:
These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Server, all roles involving interaction with customers and varying responsibilities in hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Fort Wayne
It is important for Bussers in Fort Wayne to understand applicable labor laws and tax obligations:
- Learn about federal labor regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment laws and services, visit Indiana's official government site.
- Local employment information and regulations can be found at the City of Fort Wayne official website.