Busser Salary in Lancaster, CA
Bussers in Lancaster, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, translating to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The job market for Bussers in Lancaster is growing at a positive rate of about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing demand for support staff in the hospitality and food service industry across the area.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Lancaster, CA?
The salary of a Busser in Lancaster can vary depending on experience, skills, and establishment type. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings based on experience 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) | $11.00 | $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 Lancaster Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips as a supplement to their hourly wage. In many cases, Bussers can earn an estimated an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. This can significantly boost overall income, especially in busy or upscale dining venues.
Busser Salary in Lancaster vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average hourly wage of about $14.24, or roughly $29,619.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Lancaster earn less per hour and annually. The local wages reflect Lancaster's cost of living and market conditions in the hospitality sector.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lancaster for Bussers
Nearby areas that offer higher salaries for Bussers include:
- Downtown Lancaster: $12.50 per hour
- Quartz Hill: $13.00 per hour
Bussers working in Quartz Hill can expect to earn the highest wage in the vicinity, making commuting or relocation considerations worthwhile for wage increases.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Lancaster?
Multiple factors affect how much a Busser earns in Lancaster:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers tend to command higher wages and greater tips.
- Skills and Efficiency: Ability to work quickly and handle high-volume environments improves earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels usually pay more than casual dining or fast-casual chains.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may offer higher pay or more tipping opportunities.
- Location: Bussers in central or affluent areas such as Quartz Hill tend to earn more.
How To Become a Busser in Lancaster
Starting a career as a Busser in Lancaster involves:
- Gaining Basic Training: Consider programs like the Antelope Valley College Culinary Arts Program to learn foundational kitchen and hospitality skills.
- Hospitality Training: Enrolling in courses at the Lancaster Adult Education Center Hospitality Training will build relevant customer service and operational expertise.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the California Food Handler Card is mandatory for working in food service roles including Bussers.
- ServSafe Certification: This comprehensive food safety training is valuable for anyone in a restaurant environment.
- On-the-Job Experience: Many Bussers start in entry-level roles and learn practical skills through hands-on work.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Lancaster
Popular employers actively hiring Bussers in Lancaster include well-known restaurant chains such as:
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
- Chili's Grill & Bar
Establishments That Bussers in Lancaster Work At
Bussers commonly find jobs in various types of dining and hospitality establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often the most common employers for Bussers, offering steady work but typically moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Chains: Positions may pay slightly more with higher turnover of customers.
- Hotel Restaurants and Event Venues: These establishments often pay more and provide additional tipping opportunities.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Bussers here often earn more in base pay plus substantial tips due to higher food and drink prices.
The type of establishment greatly influences wage levels and tip potential for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lancaster for Bussers
For those exploring similar or adjacent roles to a Busser, several related hospitality careers exist within Lancaster's food service industry.
These include Cashier, Backwaiter, and Dishwasher positions, which share aspects of faster-paced work and customer or kitchen support duties.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Lancaster
Busser employees in Lancaster should be well-informed about relevant labor and tax regulations to ensure compliance and proper financial planning.
- State labor standards can be reviewed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- For federal tax guidelines, visit the Internal Revenue Service.
- Local rules and resources about employment in Lancaster can be accessed via the City of Lancaster official website.