Busser Salary in San Jose, CA
Bussers in San Jose, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $19.34 per hour, which translates to about $773.60 per week, $3,352.27 per month, and $40,227.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in San Jose is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the restaurant and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in San Jose, CA?
The salary of a Busser in San Jose can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a general overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $17.95 | $718.00 | $3,105.33 | $37,336.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.34 | $773.60 | $3,352.27 | $40,227.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.75 | $950.00 | $4,108.33 | $49,400.00 |
Do Bussers in San Jose Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wages. On average, a Busser in San Jose can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. This can substantially increase overall earnings.
Busser Salary in San Jose vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.20 per hour, which amounts to about $29,536 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in San Jose earn significantly more, at approximately $19.34 per hour and $40,227.20 per year. This difference reflects the higher cost of living and restaurant market in the San Jose area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near San Jose for Bussers
Nearby areas offer slight variations in Busser salaries:
- Downtown San Jose: $20.50 per hour
- Santana Row: $21.00 per hour
Bussers working in Santana Row earn the highest nearby wages, but Downtown San Jose is also competitive.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in San Jose?
Several factors affect the wage level for a Busser in San Jose:
- Experience: More experienced Bussers often earn higher hourly rates and better tips.
- Skills: Ability to quickly clear tables and assist servers efficiently can improve earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or fine dining restaurants tend to offer better base pay and tip opportunities compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may include higher pay rates or more generous tips.
- Location: Bussers working in high-traffic or affluent areas commonly receive increased pay.
How To Become a Busser in San Jose
Starting as a Busser in San Jose requires a combination of basic skills, training, and certifications:
- Education and Training: Enrolling in programs such as the San Jose City College Culinary Arts Program can provide foundational knowledge about the restaurant industry, food safety, and kitchen operations.
- Hospitality Training: The Mission College Hospitality Management Program offers useful insights into customer service and operational efficiency, beneficial for career advancement as a Busser.
- Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the California Food Handler Card and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification is often mandatory and increases employability.
- On-the-job Experience: Many Bussers begin by assisting more experienced team members and learning fast-paced service skills.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in San Jose
Several well-known establishments actively hire Bussers in San Jose:
- Topgolf
- Olive Garden
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Bussers in San Jose Work At
Bussers in San Jose usually work across a variety of restaurant types:
- Casual Dining: Offers steady work with moderate base pay and tip potential.
- Fast Casual: These establishments typically have a faster pace with slightly lower wages and fewer tips.
- Fine Dining: Often provides higher hourly pay and significantly better tip earnings.
- Event Venues and Banquet Halls: Bussers in these settings may earn more during busy events due to higher demand for service assistance.
The kind of establishment influences both the base salary and tip income substantially.
Related Hospitality Jobs in San Jose for Bussers
If you are interested in related roles within hospitality similar to being a Busser, there are several career paths worth considering.
These roles include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Server, which share service-oriented responsibilities in the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in San Jose
Understanding local and state labor laws as well as tax obligations is crucial for Bussers working in San Jose.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws and workplace regulations.
- For employment services and benefits, the California Employment Development Department is a key resource.
- The City of San Jose Official Website offers local government information relevant to workers.