Busser Salary in Independence, MO

Bussers in Independence, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $11.34 per hour, which translates to about $453.60 per week, $1,965.60 per month, and $23,587.20 per year.

The demand for Bussers in Independence is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing job opportunities in the hospitality and restaurant sector.

How Much Does a Busser Make in Independence, MO?

The salary of a Busser in Independence varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown of earnings across different levels.

Experience level	Hourly pay	Weekly pay	Monthly pay	Yearly pay
Entry-level (~25th percentile)	$10.14	$405.60	$1,752.40	$21,091.20
Mid-level (average)	$11.34	$453.60	$1,965.60	$23,587.20
Top earners (90th percentile)	$12.81	$512.40	$2,216.40	$26,624.80

Do Bussers in Independence, MO Earn Tips?

Bussers typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. In Independence, a Busser can earn an extra $10 per hour in tips, which significantly supplements their base pay and overall income.

Busser Salary in Independence, MO vs. National Average

Nationally, Bussers earn an average of about $12.49 per hour, translating to approximately $25,979.20 per year.

Compared to the national average, Bussers in Independence earn slightly less at $11.34 per hour and $23,587.20 annually. This difference may reflect local cost of living factors and market dynamics.

Highest-Paying Areas Near Independence for Bussers

When exploring earnings in nearby areas, Bussers can expect the following hourly rates:

Downtown Independence: $12.50 per hour
East Independence: $12.00 per hour

Working in Downtown Independence offers Bussers a higher pay rate than East Independence, reflecting perhaps the area's busier dining scene and higher demand.

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 Independence, MO?

Several important factors affect a Busser’s salary in Independence:

Experience and Work Performance: More experienced Bussers or those receiving excellent service reviews often earn higher wages and tips.
Skills and Efficiency: Bussers with superior time management, multitasking, and teamwork skills tend to be more valued and better compensated.
Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or busy urban venues usually offer higher pay and more lucrative tips compared to casual dining or fast food venues.
Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with shift differentials, increasing overall earnings.
Local Demand and Competition: Areas with strong restaurant industries and limited labor supply may offer higher wages.

How To Become a Busser in Independence, MO

Becoming a Busser in Independence involves a combination of practical skills and optional education or certifications:

Gain Basic Skills: Develop skills in customer service, cleaning, and maintenance through entry-level positions or volunteering.
Consider Culinary or Hospitality Education: Programs such as the Metropolitan Community College Culinary Arts Program and the Johnson County Community College Hospitality Management Program offer foundational knowledge valuable in restaurant roles.
Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is often encouraged or required and demonstrates knowledge of food safety standards.
Complete Alcohol Service Training: The Missouri Responsible Serving of Alcohol Certification can be beneficial for working in venues serving alcoholic beverages.
Build Experience: Seek opportunities in local restaurants, fast casual dining, or catering companies to hone your skills and work your way up.

Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Independence, MO

Some of the prominent employers actively seeking Bussers in Independence include:

McDonald's
Five Guys
Applebee's

Establishments That Bussers in Independence, MO Work At

Bussers in Independence are commonly found working in a variety of dining establishments such as:

Fast Food Restaurants: Often have steady demand but typically offer lower base pay and fewer tip opportunities.
Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues usually offer better wages and tips than fast food with more complex service roles.
Fine Dining Establishments: Bussers in fine dining can earn higher hourly wages and significantly more in tips due to upscale clientele.
Banquet and Catering Services: Work is often event-based and can offer varied pay depending on the size and scale of events.

The type of establishment greatly impacts both the base salary and tip potential, making it an important factor for income expectations.

Related Hospitality Jobs in Independence, MO for Bussers

If you're exploring similar roles in hospitality around Independence, MO, here are some related positions you might consider:

Job Title	Avg Salary
Backwaiter	$32,636
Dishwasher	$31,650

These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Dishwasher, which involve complementary skills and duties in the restaurant and hospitality industry.

Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Independence, MO

Bussers working in Independence should familiarize themselves with federal, state, and local labor laws to ensure compliance and protect their rights.

For comprehensive information on federally mandated employment laws and worker protections, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
The Missouri state government provides specific guidelines on employment laws and workers’ rights at labor.mo.gov.
Local regulations and resources for Independence workers are available through the city's official website at indepmo.org.