Busser Salary in Irvine, CA
Bussers in Irvine, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Irvine is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth prospects for this position in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Irvine, CA?
The salary of a Busser in Irvine can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.64 | $865.60 | $3,756.53 | $45,011.20 |
Do Bussers in Irvine Earn Tips?
Bussers typically do earn tips as part of their compensation. In Irvine, a Busser can expect to make an extra approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the type of establishment and service volume.
Busser Salary in Irvine vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Irvine earn significantly more, with an average of $18.00 per hour and $37,440 annually.
This higher pay is influenced by the local cost of living in California and the strong hospitality sector in Irvine.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Irvine for Bussers
Nearby cities offer competitive pays for Bussers:
- Newport Beach: $18.00 per hour
- Costa Mesa: $18.33 per hour
Bussers considering jobs in these locations can find salaries comparable or slightly higher than Irvine.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Irvine?
Several factors can influence how much a Busser earns in Irvine:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers often receive higher pay and better tips.
- Skills and Efficiency: Strong multitasking, communication, and customer service skills can increase earning potential, especially through tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to pay more and generate higher tips compared to casual eateries.
- Shift and Hours: Bussers working evening or weekend shifts may earn more due to busy periods and possible shift differentials.
- Local Economic Conditions: Living costs and demand for hospitality workers in Irvine impact wages positively.
How To Become a Busser in Irvine
Entering the busser profession in Irvine is accessible through several pathways:
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Getting a California Food Handler Card is mandatory and ensures compliance with local food safety regulations.
- Gain Practical Experience: Many Bussers start with no formal training but can improve prospects by working in various restaurants and hospitality settings.
- Consider Hospitality Education: Programs like the Orange Coast College Culinary Arts Program or Saddleback College Hospitality Management Program can provide relevant skills and a competitive edge.
- Earn Additional Certifications: The nationally recognized ServSafe Certification in food safety is often preferred by employers.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Irvine
Prominent employers that frequently seek Bussers in Irvine include:
- California Pizza Kitchen
- Haidilao Hot Pot
- The Cheesecake Factory
- P.F. Chang's
- Famous Dave's
Establishments That Bussers in Irvine Work At
Bussers in Irvine commonly work in a variety of dining establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often have steady shifts and moderate pays with consistent tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically busy environments where tips may be less but hourly wage competitive.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: These tend to offer higher tips and wages, but may require more polished service skills.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide opportunities for stable employment with potentially better benefits and pay scale.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly influence the overall salary and gratuity amounts for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Irvine for Bussers
If you are exploring roles related to Busser, consider these similar positions within the hospitality industry:
These include Cashier, Backwaiter, and Fine Dining Server, which involve similar hospitality duties and career pathways.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Irvine
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Bussers working in Irvine.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.
- California state workplace regulations and standards can be found on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- The City of Irvine official website offers local government resources and information relevant to employees.