Busser Salary in Madison, WI
In Madison, WI, Bussers in 2025 earn approximately $15.92 per hour, which equates to about $636.80 per week, $2,759.47 per month, and $33,113.60 per year. These figures highlight the hourly to annual earnings for this essential hospitality position.
The demand for Bussers in Madison, WI is growing steadily at about 5% per year. This positive growth rate reflects a continuing need for support staff in the busy food and beverage services sector within the city.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Madison, WI?
The salary of a Busser in Madison depends primarily on experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown by experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.34 | $453.60 | $1,963.20 | $23,587.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.92 | $636.80 | $2,759.47 | $33,113.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.34 | $893.60 | $3,861.07 | $46,387.20 |
Do Bussers in Madison, WI Earn Tips?
Bussers in Madison often earn tips as part of their income. Depending on the venue and customer generosity, this can amount to an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips. Tips can significantly supplement a Busser's hourly wage, providing greater overall earnings.
Busser Salary in Madison, WI vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn about $14.20 per hour and around $29,536 annually. In Madison, WI, the average hourly wage of $15.92 and yearly pay of $33,113.60 is notably higher.
This difference may be attributed to regional cost of living, local hospitality industry standards, and increased demand for quality service staff.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Bussers
Nearby neighborhoods offer slightly varied pay for Bussers:
- Downtown Madison: $16.50 per hour
- Near West Side: $16.00 per hour
Those working in Downtown Madison typically earn a premium compared to other areas, likely due to the higher concentration of restaurants and entertainment venues.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Madison, WI?
The salary of a Busser in Madison is influenced by several key factors:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers tend to command higher wages due to their efficiency and reliability.
- Skills: Bussers with additional skills such as knowledge of food safety or customer service often earn better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more than casual dining or fast food venues.
- Shift and Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may come with shift differentials or higher tip potential.
- Local Demand: Areas with a high concentration of hospitality venues often offer higher salaries and more tip opportunities.
How To Become a Busser in Madison, WI
Embarking on a career as a Busser in Madison involves a few important steps:
- Enroll in Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Consider programs like the Madison College Culinary Arts Program, which provides essential hands-on experience and knowledge.
- Pursue Hospitality Management Education: The University of Wisconsin-Madison Hospitality Management Program offers business and operational insights useful even for entry-level roles.
- Obtain Food Safety and Certification: Acquiring the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures adherence to food safety practices. Additionally, the Responsible Beverage Server Training is essential in Wisconsin for those working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Gain Practical Experience: Starting in entry-level roles at restaurants provides the needed exposure to advance.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Madison, WI
Numerous local employers actively seek qualified Bussers, including:
- Sparetime Entertainment
- SUSHI LOVER
- Red Robin
- The Madison Club
- The Madison Concourse Hotel
Establishments That Bussers in Madison, WI Work At
Bussers commonly find employment in a variety of hospitality venues:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often provide steady hours but somewhat moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer a higher volume of customers but slightly lower wages and tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Bussers here may enjoy higher hourly wages and more substantial tips owing to the upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Such sites may offer consistent working hours and sometimes benefits alongside competitive pay.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in wage differences due to variations in clientele, tipping culture, and company pay scales.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison, WI for Bussers
If you are considering careers similar to Busser, you might explore related roles such as:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Dishwasher positions—all vital roles within the hospitality industry that offer alternative career paths with varied responsibilities and compensation.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Madison, WI
Bussers in Madison should be aware of labor regulations and tax obligations applicable to them to ensure compliance and understand their rights.
- Federal labor laws can be reviewed on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment regulations for Wisconsin are available at the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.
- Further, the City of Madison official site provides local ordinances and resources relevant to workers.