Busser Salary in Portland, OR
Bussers in Portland, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $16.59 per hour, which translates to about $663.60 per week, $2,875.60 per month, and $34,507.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Portland is growing steadily at about 5%, indicating positive job prospects and rising opportunities in the food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Portland?
The salary of a Busser in Portland can vary depending on experience, employer, and location within the city. Below is a general breakdown of earnings based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.03 | $561.20 | $2,424.27 | $29,510.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.59 | $663.60 | $2,875.60 | $34,507.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.60 | $784.00 | $3,406.67 | $40,768.00 |
Do Bussers in Portland Earn Tips?
Bussers in Portland typically earn tips as part of their income. It's common for a Busser to make an additional $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the type of establishment and customer volume, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
Busser Salary in Portland vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.17 per hour, equating to about $29,473.60 per year.
When compared to the national average, Bussers in Portland earn a higher hourly wage of about $16.59 per hour and an annual salary near $34,507.20.
This difference can be attributed to Portland's higher cost of living and growing hospitality industry.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Portland for Bussers
Looking at nearby areas, the pay for Bussers can vary:
- Beaverton: $18.40 per hour
- Dundee: $17.22 per hour
These neighboring cities offer competitive wages, often higher than Portland itself, reflecting the local demand and cost of living differences.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Portland?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Busser in Portland, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bussers with more experience and proven efficiency often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more than casual or fast-casual venues.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes offer higher pay or better tips.
- Location Within Portland: Bussers working in more upscale neighborhoods or busy downtown areas may see higher compensation.
- Customer Volume and Tip Policies: Establishments with higher customer turnover can provide more tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Busser in Portland
Starting a career as a Busser in Portland typically involves:
- Completing basic culinary assistant training: Programs like the Portland Community College Culinary Assistant Program provide foundational skills in food prep and kitchen safety.
- Enrolling in specialized Busser training: The Oregon Culinary Institute Busser Training offers focused courses on table setting, customer service, and teamwork.
- Obtaining necessary certifications: All food service workers in Oregon must have the Oregon Food Handler Certification to ensure safe food handling.
- Alcohol service permits: For Bussers working where alcohol is served, the OLCC Alcohol Server Permit is needed.
- Gaining hands-on experience: Entry-level positions or volunteering in local restaurants can help build the needed skills and references.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Portland
Some notable employers currently hiring Bussers in the Portland area include:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Morton's The Steakhouse
- Fogo de Chao
Establishments That Bussers in Portland Work At
Bussers in Portland usually work in a variety of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offering steady employment with moderate wages and tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These feature faster service with typically lower wages but higher job turnover.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These provide the highest salaries and best tipping possibilities due to the upscale ambiance.
- Hotels and Catering Venues: Often hiring Bussers for banquet service and event setups, with potential for varied pay based on event size.
The salary can vary significantly depending on the prestige and clientele of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Portland for Bussers
If you're exploring careers related to bussing, consider these similar roles that involve hospitality service:
These include roles such as Cashier, Banquet Server, and Server, each with different responsibilities and compensation structures.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Portland
Bussers in Portland should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax requirements to protect their rights and comply with regulations.
- For information on labor laws and worker rights, visit the State of Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries website.
- Details about alcohol service permits and regulations can be found on the Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission website.
- Food handler certifications and public health guidelines are available on the Oregon Department of Human Services website.