Busser Salary in Lakewood, CO
Bussers in Lakewood, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $11.40 per hour, which translates to about $456.00 per week, $1,976.00 per month, and $23,712.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Lakewood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy outlook for job opportunities and career growth in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Lakewood, CO?
The salary of a Busser in Lakewood can vary depending on experience and individual employers. Here is a breakdown of earnings across different 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) | $11.40 | $456.00 | $1,976.00 | $23,712.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
Do Bussers in Lakewood Earn Tips?
Bussers often receive tips as part of their compensation, especially in casual and full-service restaurants. Typically, a Busser in Lakewood can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly increase their overall income.
Busser Salary in Lakewood vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Lakewood earn less hourly at $11.40 and an annual salary of $23,712.00. This difference may reflect regional living costs and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakewood for Bussers
Nearby areas in Colorado vary in pay for Bussers:
- Belmar: $12.50 per hour
- Green Mountain: $13.00 per hour
Green Mountain offers the highest pay among nearby areas, making it attractive for Bussers seeking higher wages close to Lakewood.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Lakewood?
The salary of a Busser in Lakewood can be influenced by several key factors.
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Bussers tend to earn higher wages due to improved efficiency and reliability.
- Type of Establishment: High-end or busy restaurants often pay more than fast casual or diner settings.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts can include shift differentials, increasing hourly wages.
- Tip Income: Bussers working in full-service restaurants generally earn more through tips compared to those in self-service venues.
- Local Economic Conditions: Lakewood's cost of living and demand for hospitality workers can impact pay rates.
How To Become a Busser in Lakewood
Becoming a Busser in Lakewood involves a few practical steps to enter the hospitality workforce effectively.
- Obtain Basic Food Safety Knowledge: Certifications such as the Food Handler Certification are often required to work in restaurant settings.
- Attend Hospitality Training Programs: Programs like the Red Rocks Community College Hospitality Program and the Community College of Denver Culinary Arts Program provide valuable foundational skills and knowledge.
- Complete Alcohol Server Training: For Bussers working in establishments serving alcohol, Alcohol Server Training is important for compliance and awareness.
- Gain Entry-Level Experience: Many start in this role without formal training, learning on the job and progressing through experience.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Lakewood
Various popular restaurants and venues in Lakewood hire Bussers regularly, including:
- Olive Garden
- Chili's
- Simms Steakhouse
- Joe's Crab Shack
- Holiday Inn Denver Lakewood
Establishments That Bussers in Lakewood Work At
Bussers work in diverse hospitality environments, which can affect their earnings and experience.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady hours and opportunities to earn tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer lower base wages and fewer tip opportunities.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger establishments may provide more benefits and consistent hours.
- Banquet and Catering Services: Can offer seasonal or event-based work with variable pay rates.
The diversity in workplace type contributes to variations in salary and benefits for Bussers in Lakewood.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakewood for Bussers
If you're exploring hospitality careers related to Bussers, consider these similar roles that you might find interesting:
These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Dishwasher positions which often share similar entry-level requirements and workplace environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Lakewood
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Bussers working in Lakewood.
- Visit the State of Colorado official website for detailed information about local labor laws, wage standards, and employment rights.
- For federal employment regulations and worker protections, check the U.S. Department of Labor.