Busser Salary in Lafayette, LA
Bussers in Lafayette, LA, in 2026, earn approximately $12.20 per hour, which translates to about $488.00 per week, $2,114.67 per month, and $25,376.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Lafayette is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry in this area.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Lafayette, LA?
The salary of a Busser in Lafayette can vary depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of earnings at various experience levels based on hourly wages.
| 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 Lafayette Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. In Lafayette, Bussers can earn approximately $3 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on the type of establishment and customer volume. This supplemental income can notably increase their overall earnings
Busser Salary in Lafayette, LA vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average hourly wage of about $14.20, translating to around $29,536 annually.
Comparatively, Bussers in Lafayette earn slightly less, with an average hourly wage of $12.20 and an annual salary of approximately $25,376. This variance is often influenced by local cost of living and employment demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lafayette for Bussers
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Bussers:
- Downtown Lafayette: $13.50 per hour
- River Ranch: $14.00 per hour
Bussers working in River Ranch can expect to earn slightly more than those in Downtown Lafayette, reflecting local market conditions and establishment types.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Lafayette?
Several factors contribute to a Busser's earnings in Lafayette:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bussers who work efficiently and anticipate needs may receive higher pay and better tipping opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels often pay higher wages and provide greater tips than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may yield better tips due to higher customer traffic.
- Location: Working in busier or higher-end districts like River Ranch can increase salary potential.
- Additional Responsibilities: Bussers who take on extra tasks, such as assisting servers or hosting, may earn higher wages.
How To Become a Busser in Lafayette
Starting a career as a Busser in Lafayette involves several key steps:
- Gain Basic Experience: Many Bussers start with little formal education but benefit from previous customer service or food industry roles.
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at South Louisiana Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at University of Louisiana at Lafayette provide valuable knowledge about food preparation and restaurant operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification can enhance employability and demonstrate commitment to safety standards.
- Acquire Alcohol Service Training if Applicable: If duties include handling alcoholic beverages, completing the Louisiana Responsible Vendor Training is essential.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Lafayette
Popular employers actively seeking Bussers in Lafayette include:
- Olive Garden
- McDonald's
- Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
Establishments That Bussers in Lafayette Work At
Bussers are commonly employed in a variety of foodservice settings in Lafayette, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering steady work and moderate pay, with tipping opportunities depending on customer volume.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Faster-paced with often less tipping, but steady hours.
- Hotels and Resorts: Usually provide higher wages and benefits, with more formal roles.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Typically offer higher pay and more generous tips but might require advanced skills and professionalism.
The type of establishment often influences both the base salary and the amount earned in tips for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lafayette for Bussers
If you are interested in roles related to being a Busser, you might also consider similar positions such as:
These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Dishwasher roles, which share similarities in skill sets and workplace environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Lafayette
Bussers should be familiar with labor laws and tax regulations applicable federally, in Louisiana, and locally in Lafayette.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for information on worker rights, minimum wage, and overtime rules.
- Check the Louisiana state website for employment and labor information for state-specific rules and benefits.
- Consult the Local government website for Lafayette, LA for any city ordinances and employment regulations.