Busser Salary in Oakland, CA
Bussers in Oakland, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Oakland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job prospects and increasing restaurant activity in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Oakland, CA?
The salary of a Busser in Oakland varies depending on experience, but here is an overview of earnings across different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,253.33 | $27,040.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.00 | $560.00 | $2,413.33 | $28,960.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
Do Bussers in Oakland Earn Tips?
Bussers usually earn tips in addition to their wages. On average, they can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. Tips form an essential part of a Busser's income and can significantly increase overall earnings.
Busser Salary in Oakland vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average hourly wage of approximately $14.24 per hour and an annual salary around $29,619.20.
Bussers in Oakland, CA, earn higher than the national average, with an hourly rate of $18.00 and annual salary of $37,440.00. This difference reflects the city's higher cost of living and competitive hospitality market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oakland for Bussers
Nearby areas with higher pay for Bussers include:
- Downtown Oakland: $18.50 per hour
- Rockridge: $18.30 per hour
These neighborhoods offer slightly better wages than the city average, potentially due to upscale dining venues and higher customer volume.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Oakland?
Several factors impact how much a Busser can earn in Oakland:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bussers who work efficiently and have good customer service skills often earn higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants, hotels, or busy dining venues tend to pay higher wages and offer better tipping potential compared to casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Shift and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may come with increased tip opportunities or shift differentials that enhance earnings.
- Local Cost of Living: Oakland's higher cost of living generally pushes wages above the national average.
- Certifications and Training: Having food safety certifications such as a California Food Handler Card or ServSafe Certification can positively influence hiring decisions and pay rates.
How To Become a Busser in Oakland
Starting a career as a Busser in Oakland involves several practical steps:
- Complete Relevant Hospitality Courses: Consider programs like the Laney College Culinary Arts Program or the City College of San Francisco Hospitality Management Program. These courses cover important knowledge for food service roles.
- Obtain Required Certifications: A California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service employees. Additionally, the ServSafe Certification is nationally recognized and valuable for demonstrating food safety expertise.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Entry-level bussing positions often provide training and hands-on experience to develop speed and customer service skills.
- Build Strong Work Ethics: Reliability, teamwork, and good communication are essential attributes for success and advancement.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Oakland
Some of the prominent employers actively hiring Bussers in Oakland include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Bussers in Oakland Work At
Bussers are typically employed in a range of hospitality establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often fast-paced, these venues provide steady work but may offer moderate wages and tipping.
- Fast Casual and Chain Restaurants: Bussers here experience consistent hours; pay varies but can be supplemented with tips.
- Upscale and Fine Dining Venues: These establishments often offer higher pay rates and greater tip income due to the premium nature of service.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: Shift work and banquet events may provide additional income opportunities and varied work experiences.
The type of establishment can significantly affect a Busser's earnings, with luxury dining venues generally offering the highest total compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oakland for Bussers
For those interested in similar roles within hospitality, here are a few related positions worth exploring:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Fine Dining Server positions, which share similar service-oriented responsibilities and offer varied earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Oakland
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is crucial for Bussers to protect their rights and manage earnings effectively.
- Learn about federal labor laws and regulations on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For California-specific labor laws and worker protections, visit the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For local laws and employment resources, the City of Oakland official website offers valuable information and assistance.