Busser Salary in Richmond, VA
Bussers in Richmond, VA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.44 per hour, which translates to about $617.60 per week, $2,676.27 per month, and $32,115.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Richmond is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for jobs in this role as the hospitality industry continues to expand in the area.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Richmond, VA?
The salary of a Busser in Richmond can vary depending on experience and employer, but below is a general breakdown by experience 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bussers in Richmond Earn Tips?
Bussers in Richmond generally do earn tips, which can add a significant boost to their income. It is common for Bussers to receive an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift, so tips can be an important part of earnings.
Busser Salary in Richmond vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, or roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Richmond earn slightly higher hourly wages at $15.44 per hour and annual earnings of about $32,115.20. This reflects Richmond's competitive hospitality market and cost of living adjustments.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Richmond for Bussers
Nearby areas around Richmond offer varying pay rates for Bussers, including:
- Downtown Richmond: $16.50 per hour
- Short Pump: $17.60 per hour
Bussers working in Short Pump see the highest pay, slightly above downtown and the city average.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Richmond?
Several factors can affect a Busser’s earnings in Richmond:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bussers often command higher pay, especially those skilled at efficient table clearing and customer service.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels usually offer better wages and tips compared to casual or fast casual dining venues.
- Shift Timing: Bussers working evening or weekend shifts may receive shift differentials or better tips.
- Location Within Richmond: Bussers in higher-traffic areas or affluent neighborhoods tend to earn more.
- Extra Responsibilities: Bussers who take on additional duties like assisting servers or hosting may negotiate higher pay.
How To Become a Busser in Richmond
Starting as a Busser in Richmond typically requires minimal formal education but focusing on key areas can improve job prospects and career advancement.
- Entry Requirements: Most Busser positions require a high school diploma or equivalent and a strong work ethic.
- Culinary and Hospitality Training: Programs like the Culinary Arts Program at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College offer foundational skills beneficial in restaurant roles.
- Hospitality Management Education: The Hospitality Management Program at Virginia Commonwealth University provides insights into restaurant operations that can help Bussers climb the ladder.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining credentials such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrates knowledge of safe food practices and is often required.
- Alcohol Service Training: For establishments serving alcohol, the TIPS Certification is advantageous for Bussers supporting bar areas.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Richmond
Some of the prominent employers looking for qualified Bussers in Richmond include:
- Red Robin
- Tobacco Company Restaurant
- Delaware North
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Bussers in Richmond Work At
Bussers are essential in a variety of restaurant and hospitality settings such as:
- Casual Dining: Many Bussers find roles here with moderate wages but frequent busyness and steady tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These places offer busy and fast-paced environments, often with lower base pay but tip opportunities.
- Fine Dining and Hotels: Bussers in upscale establishments often enjoy higher base pay and better tips due to affluent clientele.
The type of establishment greatly affects the salary, with high-end venues providing more substantial overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Richmond for Bussers
If you are interested in roles similar to Busser, consider exploring these related positions in hospitality that share comparable skills and growth paths.
These include Backwaiter, Food Runner, and Dishwasher positions, all involving teamwork and hospitality service skills relevant for Bussers.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Richmond
Understanding labor laws and tax regulations is important for Bussers working in Richmond.
- Federal labor standards can be reviewed at the Department of Labor website.
- Virginia state-specific labor laws and employment information are available on the Virginia government website.
- Local employment resources and business regulations can be found on the Richmond city government website.