Busser Salary in Pennsylvania
Bussers in Pennsylvania in 2025 earn approximately $13.82 per hour, which translates to about $552.80 per week, $2,395.47 per month, and $28,745.60 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Pennsylvania is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for hospitality support staff in restaurants and dining establishments across the state.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Pennsylvania?
The salary of a Busser in Pennsylvania varies based on experience and employer, but the following table provides an overview of earnings at different levels.
| 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) | $13.82 | $552.80 | $2,395.47 | $28,745.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bussers in Pennsylvania Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. In many Pennsylvania restaurants, Bussers can make an extra $5 to $15 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment's tipping practices and customer volume. These tips can significantly supplement their income.
Busser Salary in Pennsylvania vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $13.82 per hour, which aligns exactly with the average in Pennsylvania.
When it comes to yearly pay, both Pennsylvania and the national average stand at approximately $28,745.60 per year, indicating that Pennsylvania’s Busser salaries are on par with the wider country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pennsylvania for Bussers
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Bussers, including:
- Wexford: $17.19 per hour
- Glen Mills: $16.00 per hour
Those willing to commute or relocate may find higher-paying opportunities in these Pennsylvania localities compared to the state average.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Pennsylvania?
The salary of a Busser in Pennsylvania can be influenced by several key factors:
- Experience: Seasoned Bussers able to work efficiently and manage multiple tasks tend to command higher pay.
- Skills: Good communication, teamwork, and customer service skills enhance earning potential, especially in upscale venues.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or high-volume venues may offer higher wages and better tips than casual or fast-food settings.
- Location: Bussers working in urban or affluent areas often receive higher wages due to demand and cost of living.
How To Become a Busser in Pennsylvania
Starting a career as a Busser in Pennsylvania involves some straightforward steps to build required skills and certifications.
Many Bussers benefit from completing the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, which is widely recognized and ensures knowledge of essential food safety practices. Additionally, the Responsible Alcohol Management Program (RAMP) is a Pennsylvania-specific certification valuable for employees in establishments serving alcohol.
Enhancing customer interaction skills through programs like the Customer Service Excellence Course can help Bussers secure better positions and improve earning potential.
On-the-job training combined with these certifications provides a solid pathway to enter and advance in this role.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Pennsylvania
Several well-known restaurant chains actively hire Bussers in Pennsylvania, including:
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Bussers in Pennsylvania Work At
Bussers typically find employment in a range of dining environments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Larger chain restaurants offer steady work and some benefits but may have lower wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Though tips may be more limited here, the faster pace and turnover can create more hours and experience opportunities.
- Fine Dining: These settings often provide the highest tips and wages due to a premium on service quality.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Offering diverse opportunities that may carry varied pay structures.
The type of establishment greatly affects the total earnings of a Busser, with fine dining and upscale venues typically providing the best pay and tipping prospects.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pennsylvania for Bussers
Individuals interested in hospitality roles similar to a Busser might consider related positions such as:
These include Backwaiter, Barista, and Cashier positions, all of which involve customer service and support roles within the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Pennsylvania
Bussers working in Pennsylvania should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and to know their rights.
- Visit the Pennsylvania Department of Labor & Industry for information on state labor laws and employee protections.
- The Occupational Safety and Health Administration provides guidelines on federal workplace safety standards.
- For tax-related information and guidelines, the Internal Revenue Service is the primary federal resource.