Busser Salary in Kent, WA
Bussers in Kent, WA, 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 Kent is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling a positive outlook and expanding opportunities for individuals pursuing this role in local restaurants and hospitality venues.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Kent, WA?
The salary of a Busser in Kent varies based on experience and employer, but here's a general breakdown for different 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) | $11.34 | $453.60 | $1,965.60 | $23,587.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
Do Bussers in Kent Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage, which can significantly boost their income. In Kent, Bussers may earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips during busy shifts, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Busser Salary in Kent vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $11.00 per hour, translating to about $22,880 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Kent earn slightly more at $11.34 per hour and $23,587.20 annually, which reflects the region’s cost of living and hospitality industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Kent for Bussers
When looking at nearby areas, Busser salaries vary as follows:
- Downtown Kent: $12.00 per hour
- East Hill: $11.50 per hour
These nearby communities offer competitive wages, with Downtown Kent providing the highest pay within the local area.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Kent?
Several factors impact how much a Busser can earn in Kent, including:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers tend to earn higher wages due to greater knowledge of restaurant workflow and efficiency.
- Skills: Bussers with multitasking abilities, effective communication, and teamwork skills may find better pay opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants and high-end hotels typically offer better wages and tipping potential compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may come with higher pay or increased tipping opportunities.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wage rates can adjust based on Kent’s cost of living and hospitality industry trends.
How To Become a Busser in Kent
Starting a career as a Busser in Kent can be enhanced by several educational and certification steps:
- Complete Hospitality or Culinary Training: Programs like the Highline College Hospitality and Tourism Management Program and Green River College Culinary Arts Program provide valuable skills relevant to working in restaurant environments.
- Obtain Required Certifications: The Washington State Food Worker Card is mandatory for all food service employees to ensure safe food handling. For those serving alcohol, an Alcohol Server Permit (MAST) is required to certify responsible service.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in restaurants offer hands-on experience and help build a foundation.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong customer service, communication, and teamwork skills are essential for success as a Busser.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Kent
Several popular restaurant chains frequently hire Bussers in Kent, including:
- Olive Garden
- Red Robin
- Applebee's
Establishments That Bussers in Kent Work At
Bussers in Kent typically work across a variety of hospitality venues such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often maintain steady hiring and offer standard wages with regular tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Bussers here may earn slightly less in wages but benefit from fast-paced environments and tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher wages and greater tip income are usually available, reflecting the elevated service expectations.
- Hotels and Event Venues: These can offer variable pay depending on the event scale and clientele.
The type of establishment plays an important role in overall earnings due to differences in base pay and tipping culture.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Kent for Bussers
Those interested in the hospitality industry may also consider similar roles related to Busser positions, such as:
These include roles like Backwaiter, Cashier, and Server, which share many customer service elements with bussing.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Kent
Bussers should familiarize themselves with both state and federal labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance:
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries for information on state labor laws and workplace rights.
- The Washington State Employment Security Department provides resources on employment services and unemployment benefits.
- For federal regulations, review details at the U.S. Department of Labor website.