Busser Salary in Riverside, CA
Bussers in Riverside, 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 Riverside is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding job market for this vital hospitality role in the area.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Riverside, CA?
The salary of a Busser in Riverside varies based on experience and establishment type. Here is a breakdown of expected earnings at different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.92 | $836.80 | $3,625.07 | $43,513.60 |
Do Bussers in Riverside Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips in addition to their base wages. They can make an extra about $10 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant's tipping practices and customer volume.
Busser Salary in Riverside vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of approximately $14.17 per hour, equating to about $29,473.60 per year.
Compared to this, Bussers in Riverside earn a significantly higher wage, with an average of $18.00 per hour and a yearly salary near $37,440.00.
This difference reflects Riverside's regional hospitality industry demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Bussers
Nearby locations in Riverside show some variation in Busser pay rates:
- Downtown Riverside: $18.50 per hour
- La Sierra: $18.00 per hour
If you're considering working nearby, Downtown Riverside offers the highest average pay within this area.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Riverside?
Several factors can affect how much a Busser earns in Riverside, including:
- Experience Level: More experienced Bussers often earn higher wages or better tips due to efficiency and reliability.
- Skills and Work Ethic: Bussers who demonstrate excellent customer service and attention to detail may receive higher tips or wage increments.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or busy restaurants and hotels typically pay more than casual dining locations.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may offer higher pay or more opportunity for tips.
How To Become a Busser in Riverside
Starting a career as a Busser in Riverside requires some foundational preparation and certifications:
- Complete Local Hospitality Training: Programs such as the Riverside City College Culinary Arts Program provide useful foundational knowledge on restaurant operations and service.
- Consider Hospitality Management Courses: The San Bernardino Valley College Hospitality Management Program offers training focused on food service operations that can enhance your qualifications.
- Obtain Mandatory Food Safety Certification: The California Food Handler Card is required for all food service employees to ensure safe food handling practices.
- Pursue Additional Certification: The nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is highly valued by employers and demonstrates your commitment to food safety standards.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Riverside
Several prominent restaurant chains and establishments in Riverside frequently seek qualified Bussers, including:
- Olive Garden
- P.F. Chang's
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Bussers in Riverside Work At
Bussers typically find employment in a variety of settings, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often offer steady work hours with moderate pay and tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These may provide increased pace but potentially less tipping income.
- Fine Dining Venues: Typically pay higher wages and offer more substantial tips due to upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Provide opportunities for busser roles with varying shifts and often better pay.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Busser’s overall compensation, especially with respect to tips and wage rates.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside for Bussers
If you’re exploring careers related to being a Busser, here are some similar positions to consider that also operate within the hospitality sector:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Server positions, which have overlapping skills and career paths with Busser roles.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Riverside
Bussers in Riverside should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax responsibilities to protect their rights and comply with regulations.
- California's labor laws and regulations are detailed on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- Employment services and tax information for workers can be accessed through the California Employment Development Department.
- Local government resources and updates relevant to Riverside employees are available at the City of Riverside Official Website.