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Busser Salary in Joliet, IL

Bussers in Joliet, IL, in 2025, earn approximately $15.10 per hour, which translates to about $604.00 per week, $2,617.33 per month, and $31,408.00 per year.

The demand for Bussers in Joliet is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for employment in the hospitality sector across the area.

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Find out how your salary compares to the average Busser salary.
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Average Busser Salary in Joliet, IL:
Your salary is the same as the Joliet, IL salary average.
$15.10
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$15.10
$30.20
Market Average
$15.10

How Much Does a Busser Make in Joliet, IL?

The salary of a Busser in Joliet can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.

Experience levelHourly payWeekly payMonthly payYearly 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$26,960.00

Do Bussers in Joliet Earn Tips?

Bussers often earn tips in addition to their hourly wages. While the amount varies by establishment and shift, Bussers can typically earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips. This tip income can significantly boost their overall earnings.

Busser Salary in Joliet vs. National Average

Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.30 per hour, translating to about $29,744 per year.

Compared to the national average, Bussers in Joliet earn slightly more hourly at about $15.10, and their annual pay is higher as well at $31,408.00. This suggests Joliet provides favorable wages relative to the broader United States for this position.

Highest-Paying Areas Near Joliet for Bussers

When looking at nearby areas, Busser salaries can vary:

  • Downtown Joliet: $15.50 per hour
  • West Joliet: $17.60 per hour

Bussers working in West Joliet tend to earn the highest wages compared to other local areas, while Downtown Joliet also offers competitive pay for the role.

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 Joliet?

Several key factors influence the salary of a Busser in Joliet:

  • Experience and Skill Level: Bussers with more experience or additional skills such as knowledge of the restaurant workflow may command higher pay.
  • Type of Establishment: Working in fine dining or upscale restaurants typically offers better wages and tipping opportunities than casual dining spots.
  • Shift Timing: Bussers working evening or weekend shifts might receive higher tips and shift differentials.
  • Location: Bussers employed in higher-paying areas like West Joliet can expect better compensation.
  • Employer Reputation: Larger chains or well-known restaurants might offer more competitive pay and benefits.

How To Become a Busser in Joliet

Starting a career as a Busser in Joliet can be achieved by following a few important steps:

  • Participate in Hospitality Training: Programs such as the Joliet Junior College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training that can prepare candidates for various food service roles, including bussing.
  • Engage with Industry Associations: The Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation offers hospitality training relevant for Bussers and other restaurant staff, emphasizing customer service and operational skills.
  • Obtain Food Handler Certification: Required for all food service employees in Illinois, this certification ensures adherence to safe food handling practices.
  • Responsible Beverage Service Training: Recommended for staff in restaurants serving alcohol, this training promotes responsible service and enhances employability.

Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Joliet

Several prominent restaurant chains actively hire Bussers in the Joliet area, including:

  • Outback Steakhouse
  • Red Lobster
  • T.G.I. Fridays
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Establishments That Bussers in Joliet Work At

Bussers typically find employment in a variety of dining establishments:

  • Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work with moderate wages and tipping potential.
  • Fast Casual Restaurants: These often have higher turnover but may pay slightly less and offer fewer tipping opportunities.
  • Fine Dining Establishments: These provide higher wages and better tips due to upscale clientele and service standards.
  • Hotel Restaurants and Banquet Facilities: Additional opportunities often exist in hospitality venues offering events and catering services.

The type of establishment greatly influences total earnings, with fine dining venues typically providing the highest income potential for Bussers.

Related Hospitality Jobs in Joliet for Bussers

If you are considering roles related to Busser positions, here are some similar hospitality jobs you might explore:

Job Title

Avg Salary

Backwaiter

$32,636

These roles include Backwaiter, Banquet Server, and Cashier—positions which share some duties with Bussers in the hospitality industry.

Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Joliet

Bussers should be aware of federal, state, and local labor laws to ensure fair treatment and compliance in their jobs.