Busser Salary in Indianapolis, IN
Bussers in Indianapolis, IN, in 2025, earn approximately $10.55 per hour, which translates to about $422.00 per week, $1,828.67 per month, and $21,944.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Indianapolis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Indianapolis, IN?
The salary of a Busser in Indianapolis can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview based on 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 Indianapolis Earn Tips?
Yes, Bussers often earn tips as part of their compensation. On average, they can make an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment, shifts, and customer volume, which can significantly boost their overall income.
Busser Salary in Indianapolis vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn around $14.24 per hour, translating to approximately $29,619 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Indianapolis earn less at $10.55 per hour and an annual salary of $21,944. This difference is influenced by the cost of living and market demand in Indianapolis.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Indianapolis for Bussers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay rates for Bussers:
- Fishers: $12.74 per hour
- Speedway: $11.88 per hour
Fishers provides the highest pay among nearby areas, making it an attractive option for Bussers willing to commute.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Indianapolis?
Several key factors influence Busser salaries in Indianapolis:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers typically earn higher hourly wages and have better access to tip income.
- Skills: Bussers with additional hospitality skills, such as customer service or multitasking, may be compensated better.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy dining establishments often pay higher base wages and offer more tipping opportunities.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may include shift differentials and more tipping potential.
- Certification and Training: Food safety and hospitality training can enhance employability and pay.
How To Become a Busser in Indianapolis
To start a career as a Busser in Indianapolis, follow these steps:
- Gain basic hospitality knowledge: Programs such as the Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program provide a solid foundation in kitchen and food service operations, helpful even for entry-level positions like Busser.
- Complete job training: Free programs like Second Helpings Culinary Job Training offer practical skills and job placement support suitable for Bussers.
- Obtain certifications: Consider certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of food safety, as well as the Indiana Alcohol Server Training if working in environments serving alcohol.
- Develop customer service skills: Bussers interact with guests and staff, so strong communication and teamwork skills are valuable.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Indianapolis
Several prominent employers in Indianapolis frequently hire Bussers, including:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Olive Garden
- First Watch
Establishments That Bussers in Indianapolis Work At
Bussers typically find employment in a variety of hospitality settings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Often busier, they may offer increased tipping chances but typically lower base pay.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Restaurants: These usually pay higher wages and offer greater tip income, rewarding professionalism and efficiency.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Bustling with guests, these locations can provide consistent work and unique opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment strongly affects both base pay and tipping potential, contributing significantly to overall earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Indianapolis for Bussers
If you’re interested in related hospitality roles, consider these careers:
These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Server positions, which involve similar customer service and hospitality skills.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Indianapolis
Bussers should be informed about local and federal labor laws and tax requirements to properly manage their careers and earnings.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Information on employment and workforce development specific to Indiana can be found at the Indiana Department of Workforce Development.
- Health regulations and certifications relevant to food service workers are available on the Indiana State Department of Health website.