Busser Salary in Lansing, MI
Bussers in Lansing, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $13.34 per hour, which translates to about $533.60 per week, $2,312.27 per month, and $27,747.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Lansing is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating that job opportunities are on the rise for this position in the local hospitality market.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Lansing, MI?
The salary of a Busser in Lansing varies depending on experience level and employer, but below is a general overview of what you can expect to earn.
| 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 | $32,960.00 |
Do Bussers in Lansing Earn Tips?
Bussers often receive tips in addition to their base salary. Typically, a Busser in Lansing may earn around $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. Tips can significantly supplement their income, especially in busy or upscale restaurants.
Busser Salary in Lansing vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of about $14.24 per hour, which corresponds to roughly $29,619.20 per year.
Comparing this to Lansing’s average hourly wage of $13.34, Bussers in Lansing earn slightly less than the national average, though this is balanced by the region’s cost of living and local labor market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lansing for Bussers
If you are open to working near Lansing, here are some neighboring areas with higher pay rates for Bussers:
- Novi: $15.43 per hour
- Holland: $15.15 per hour
Considering a commute to these cities could offer a noticeable increase in hourly earnings compared to Lansing.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Lansing?
Several factors impact how much a Busser earns in Lansing:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Bussers often command higher wages as they contribute more efficiently to restaurant service.
- Skillset and Reliability: Bussers skilled in multitasking and with strong customer service abilities may receive raises or bonuses.
- Establishment Type: High-end restaurants and busy downtown venues tend to pay more than casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may have added premiums or better tipping potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Changes in the hospitality industry and economic conditions can affect wages.
How To Become a Busser in Lansing
To pursue a career as a Busser in Lansing, you can follow these helpful steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: A good understanding of cleanliness and restaurant flow can be obtained on the job or through short training sessions.
- Consider Culinary Education Programs: Programs like the Lansing Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive food service training that can open doors for advancement.
- Pursue Hospitality Management Studies: The Michigan State University Hospitality Business Program offers courses that help understand restaurant operations and improve your service skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification assure employers of your knowledge in food safety best practices.
- Alcohol Service Training: For establishments serving alcohol, certifications like the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification are valuable.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Lansing
Several popular restaurant chains and establishments frequently look for dependable Bussers in Lansing, including:
- Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
- P.F. Chang's
- Outback Steakhouse
Establishments That Bussers in Lansing Work At
Bussers in Lansing typically find employment in various types of dining establishments, such as:
- Casual Restaurants: These provide a stable work environment and fair wages, often relying heavily on Bussers for table turnover.
- Fast Casual Dining: Bussers here might have a faster pace but sometimes lower pay due to the concept’s streamlined service.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Venues: Higher tips and wages are common in these places, reflecting higher customer expectations and service standards.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Such locations might pay more and offer varied shifts including banquet work.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary and tip income a Busser can expect.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lansing for Bussers
If you are interested in roles related to Bussing, consider exploring these similar hospitality careers that offer different responsibilities and pay scales.
These careers include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Food Runner, which often share workplace environments with Bussers and allow for skill development and growth.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Lansing
Understanding the local labor laws and tax responsibilities is essential for Bussers working in Lansing.
- Detailed information on employment rights, minimum wage, overtime rules, and workplace protections can be found on the State of Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity website.
- For federal labor laws and resources, Bussers can visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.