Busser Salary in Santa Clara, CA
Bussers in Santa Clara, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The employment outlook for Bussers in Santa Clara is positive with an estimated growth of 5% per year, suggesting good opportunities in the coming years in this hospitality support role.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Santa Clara, CA?
The pay for a Busser in Santa Clara varies depending on experience, but the following table offers a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.00 | $400.00 | $1,733.33 | $20,800.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
Do Bussers in Santa Clara Earn Tips?
Bussers typically do earn tips in addition to their base pay. The average tip income can range from an extra $5 to $10 per hour depending on the establishment and shift, providing an important supplement to their salary.
Busser Salary in Santa Clara vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn approximately $14.24 per hour, translating to about $29,619.20 per year.
In comparison, Bussers in Santa Clara earn a somewhat lower average hourly wage of $11.00 and an annual salary of $22,880.00. This difference may reflect local market conditions and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Clara for Bussers
Looking at nearby areas around Santa Clara, pay rates for Bussers can differ slightly:
- Downtown Santa Clara: $12.50 per hour
- Santa Clara University Area: $12.00 per hour
These areas offer higher pay compared to the city average, potentially due to bustling business districts and university-related hospitality demand.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Santa Clara?
Multiple factors contribute to how much a Busser can earn in Santa Clara:
- Experience and Tenure: More seasoned Bussers usually command higher wages and steady tips.
- Skills and Efficiency: Bussers with faster clearing and setup skills may be favored with higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to offer higher wages and better tips than casual dining or fast food spots.
- Shift Times: Evening or weekend shifts might include tip premiums or shift differentials.
How To Become a Busser in Santa Clara
Getting started as a Busser in Santa Clara involves a few practical steps:
- Enroll in Hospitality Management Programs: Programs like the Mission College Hospitality Management Program provide foundational knowledge in restaurant operations ideal for Bussers.
- Consider Culinary Arts Training: The Santa Clara Adult Education Culinary Arts Program offers valuable practical training relevant to food service roles including bussing.
- Obtain Essential Certifications: Holding a California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service employees. Additionally, a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and often required.
- Gain On-The-Job Experience: Start in entry-level roles in restaurants or hotels to build skills and progress.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Santa Clara
Several notable establishments in Santa Clara are frequently looking for qualified Bussers:
- Din Tai Fung
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
Establishments That Bussers in Santa Clara Work At
Bussers commonly work across different types of food service venues in Santa Clara, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often employ Bussers with moderate wages and typical tip earnings.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: May offer slightly lower wages but usually steady work and fast-paced environments.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Hotels: These establishments often provide higher base pay and better tipping opportunities, reflecting greater guest volume and service expectations.
The type and prestige of the establishment can greatly affect overall earnings for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Clara for Bussers
If you’re interested in roles similar to Bussers in Santa Clara, here are a few related positions to consider that share some skill overlap or career progression paths:
These roles include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Porter, all of which involve supporting front- and back-of-house operations in the hospitality sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Santa Clara
Bussers should be informed about labor regulations and tax obligations to ensure compliance and protect their rights:
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations for state labor laws and regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources on employment services and tax information.
- For local government policies and resources, City of Santa Clara Official Website is a valuable reference.