Busser Salary in Lawton, OK
Bussers in Lawton, OK, in 2026, earn approximately $9.44 per hour, which translates to about $377.60 per week, $1,636.27 per month, and $19,635.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Lawton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Lawton, OK?
The salary of a Busser in Lawton varies depending on experience and employer, but below is an overview across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.25 | $290.00 | $1,256.67 | $15,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $9.44 | $377.60 | $1,636.27 | $19,635.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.76 | $630.40 | $2,716.27 | $32,780.80 |
Do Bussers in Lawton Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips in addition to their base wage. In Lawton, it is common for Bussers to receive an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Busser Salary in Lawton 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 Lawton earn less, with roughly $9.44 per hour and $19,635.20 annually. This difference reflects regional economic variations and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lawton for Bussers
You'll find that some areas near Lawton offer slightly higher wages for Bussers:
- Downtown Lawton: $10.50 per hour
- West Lawton: $9.80 per hour
Working in Downtown Lawton may provide better pay opportunities compared to other nearby neighborhoods.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Lawton?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Busser in Lawton:
- Experience and Work Speed: Bussers with more experience and the ability to work efficiently usually command higher wages.
- Skills and Customer Service: Good communication and teamwork skills can increase earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants or popular chains often pay more compared to casual dining or fast-food locations.
- Shift Timings and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may offer premium pay or more tips.
- Local Market Conditions: Economic factors and local demand for hospitality workers impact wages.
How To Become a Busser in Lawton
Entering the role of a Busser in Lawton can be streamlined by some practical steps:
- Obtain basic food safety knowledge: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification help demonstrate understanding of hygiene standards.
- Consider hospitality or culinary programs: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Great Plains Technology Center or the Hospitality Management Program at Cameron University provide foundational knowledge beneficial for a Busser career.
- Acquire any necessary permits: For those planning to work where alcohol is served, the Oklahoma Alcohol Server Permit is often required.
- Gain on-the-job experience: Many Bussers start in entry-level food service roles and learn through practical work.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Lawton
Some notable employers that frequently hire Bussers in Lawton include:
- Olive Garden
- IHOP
- Cracker Barrel
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Bussers in Lawton Work At
Bussers are vital in a variety of dining environments such as:
- Casual dining restaurants: These places may offer consistent hours and moderate pay, often with opportunities for tips.
- Fast casual restaurants: Bussers in these settings may experience a faster pace, sometimes with lower wages compared to full-service restaurants.
- Chain restaurants and family dining: Large chains usually provide structured wage scales and benefits but may have less tip income.
- Fine dining establishments: Bussers here can earn higher wages due to upscale pricing and larger tip pools.
The establishment type significantly impacts overall earnings and working conditions for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lawton for Bussers
If you are interested in roles similar to Busser, consider these related hospitality positions that have overlapping skills and career paths:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Dishwasher positions, roles that involve direct customer service or supporting restaurant operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Lawton
Bussers should be aware of both state and federal labor laws to understand their rights and responsibilities:
- Visit the Official website of the State of Oklahoma for detailed information on minimum wage, worker protections, and other employment resources.
- For comprehensive federal labor law information including workplace safety and regulations, check out the U.S. Department of Labor’s official website.