Busser Salary in Lakeland, FL
Bussers in Lakeland, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.15 per hour, which translates to about $766.00 per week, $3,319.33 per month, and $39,832.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Lakeland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend and increasing job opportunities in the restaurant and hospitality industry in this area.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Lakeland, FL?
The salary of a Busser in Lakeland can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bussers in Lakeland Earn Tips?
Bussers generally earn tips as part of their total compensation. On average, they can earn an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift, significantly boosting their overall income.
Busser Salary in Lakeland vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.24 per hour, translating to about $29,619.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Lakeland earn a higher hourly wage of $19.15 per hour, which results in a significantly higher annual salary of $39,832.00. This difference may be influenced by local demand, cost of living, and the type of establishments prevalent in Lakeland.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakeland for Bussers
Nearby areas offer slightly varying wages for Bussers:
- Downtown Lakeland: $15.50 per hour
- Lakeland Highlands: $17.60 per hour
Bussers working in Lakeland Highlands tend to earn more compared to Downtown Lakeland, reflecting different demand levels and establishment types.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Lakeland?
Several key factors can influence a Busser’s salary in Lakeland:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bussers who work efficiently and can multitask tend to earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining venues often pay higher wages and offer better tipping opportunities compared to casual or fast-food settings.
- Working Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts may come with higher pay or increased tips due to busier service periods.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with more restaurants or higher customer traffic can provide better employment opportunities and wages.
- Certifications and Training: While formal certifications for Bussers are rare, possessing food safety credentials can improve job prospects.
How To Become a Busser in Lakeland
Starting a career as a Busser in Lakeland involves several steps that can enhance employment opportunities:
- Gain Basic Experience: Many Bussers start with little to no experience but benefit from prior work in customer service or entry-level food service roles.
- Consider Hospitality and Culinary Programs: Polk State College offers a Culinary Arts Program, and Traviss Technical College provides a Hospitality Program focusing on restaurant operations, which can be helpful for aspiring Bussers.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Programs like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Florida Responsible Vendor Training are valued by many employers for overall food safety and service compliance.
- Develop Strong Work Ethic and Customer Service Skills: Being fast, reliable, and courteous can lead to positive references and tips.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Lakeland
Several well-known restaurant chains and local establishments frequently hire Bussers in Lakeland:
- Texas Cattle Company-Lakeland
- First Watch
- Red Lobster
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Bussers in Lakeland Work At
Bussers typically work at various types of foodservice establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues provide steady employment and moderate wages, with potential for tips depending on the crowd.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Faster paced environments can offer more hours; however, wages and tips might be lower.
- Fine Dining Locations: Bussers here can earn higher wages and more substantial tips due to multiple course meals and attentive service standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may provide greater benefits and more structured advancement potential.
The type of establishment significantly affects wage levels and opportunities for tip income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakeland for Bussers
If you are interested in careers similar to being a Busser, you can consider these related hospitality roles that also exist in Lakeland:
These include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Cashier positions, which share some overlapping duties and environments with Bussers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Lakeland
Bussers should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements to navigate their employment correctly.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor (federal website) to understand federal wage laws, overtime rules, and worker rights.
- The State of Florida official website has specific guidelines on employment standards and labor regulations applicable in Lakeland.
- For local ordinances and regulations, the City of Lakeland official website provides information tailored to the city’s workforce.