Busser Salary in Lowell, MA
In Lowell, MA, Bussers earn approximately $17.55 per hour, which amounts to about $702.00 per week, $3,042.00 per month, and $36,504.00 per year in 2025.
The demand for Bussers in Lowell is growing at about 5% per year, indicating a positive and expanding job market for this important hospitality role.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Lowell, MA?
The salary of a Busser in Lowell varies by experience level and specific employer. Below is a breakdown of typical wages:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.55 | $702.00 | $3,037.00 | $36,504.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.10 | $884.00 | $3,815.33 | $45,968.00 |
Do Bussers in Lowell Earn Tips?
Bussers typically do earn tips that supplement their base salary. On average, a Busser in Lowell can expect to earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift.
Busser Salary in Lowell vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn around $14.50 per hour and make approximately $30,160.00 annually.
Compared to this, Bussers in Lowell earn higher wages, with an average hourly pay of $17.55 and a yearly salary of around $36,504.00.
This reflects the higher living costs and demand for skilled hospitality support staff in the Lowell area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lowell for Bussers
Nearby areas offer competitive wages for Bussers:
- Westwood: $20.27 per hour
- Peabody: $19.94 per hour
Choosing to work in Westwood or Peabody may increase earning potential compared to Lowell itself.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Lowell?
Multiple factors determine how much a Busser earns:
- Experience and Reliability: More experienced Bussers with a strong work ethic and good reviews from management tend to earn higher pay.
- Tips and Shift Timing: Working busy hours or in upscale restaurants often results in more tips and better overall compensation.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining venues typically pay more than casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Skills and Efficiency: Bussers who can efficiently manage their duties and assist servers effectively might be rewarded with higher wages or more hours.
How To Become a Busser in Lowell
To pursue a career as a Busser in Lowell, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Enrolling in programs like the Greater Lowell Technical High School Culinary Arts Program or Middlesex Community College Culinary Arts Program can provide foundational hospitality skills.
- Obtain Certifications: Food safety certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and mandated Allergen Awareness Training in Massachusetts are valuable and sometimes required.
- Build Practical Experience: Entry-level roles in casual dining or fast casual establishments can provide on-the-job training and experience.
- Demonstrate Professionalism and Teamwork: Bussers who work well with servers and kitchen staff are more likely to progress or receive raises.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Lowell
Several establishments actively recruit Bussers in Lowell:
- Tavern in the Square
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Bahama Breeze Island Grille
Establishments That Bussers in Lowell Work At
Bussers find employment in various settings, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often offer consistent hours and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Typically provide steady work but lower pay compared to fine dining.
- Fine Dining establishments: Bussers in upscale restaurants generally earn higher wages and better tips due to higher customer spending.
- Hotels and Event Spaces: Opportunities may include banquet work and events, sometimes paying premium rates for busy shift periods.
The type of establishment is a key influencer on the overall salary of a Busser.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lowell for Bussers
For those considering similar career paths to a Busser, there are several related roles worth exploring:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Dishwasher positions, which involve comparable duties in the food service industry and may offer different pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Lowell
Bussers should familiarize themselves with labor laws relevant to their work environment and region.
- For Massachusetts-specific labor regulations, visit the official Commonwealth of Massachusetts website.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's website provides federal resources on labor laws and workplace standards.