Busser Salary in Santa Fe, NM
Bussers in Santa Fe, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $18.59 per hour, which translates to about $743.60 per week, $3,222.27 per month, and $38,667.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Santa Fe is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy and expanding opportunity in the local hospitality and restaurant industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Santa Fe, NM?
The salary of a Busser in Santa Fe can vary depending on experience and employer. Here's a general breakdown by experience level:
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,953.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Bussers in Santa Fe Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. In Santa Fe, Bussers may earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the restaurant type and volume of service, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Busser Salary in Santa Fe vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, or about $30,160 per year.
In comparison, Bussers in Santa Fe earn a higher wage at about $18.59 per hour and $38,667.20 annually, reflecting the city's hospitality market and local living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Santa Fe for Bussers
The following nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for Bussers:
- Downtown: $19.50 per hour
- Railyard District: $18.70 per hour
These areas are popular dining destinations, which often translates to increased pay due to demand and tip potential.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Santa Fe?
Various factors can impact the salary of a Busser in Santa Fe including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bussers able to work efficiently and maintain high service standards often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels typically pay higher wages than casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Shift and Work Hours: Bussers working peak shifts, weekends, or holidays may receive premium pay or higher tips.
- Local Demand and Competition: Areas with a high volume of tourists or active dining scenes often offer better pay for Bussers.
- Additional Responsibilities: Bussers who assist with light food running or cleaning duties might receive higher compensation.
How To Become a Busser in Santa Fe
For those interested in pursuing a career as a Busser in Santa Fe, the following steps are helpful:
- Enroll in Culinary Education or Training Programs: Programs such as the Santa Fe Community College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive training in restaurant operations and service, beneficial for Bussers.
- Complete Food Safety Certification: Obtaining the required Food Handler Certification is essential for all restaurant staff in New Mexico.
- Obtain Alcohol Server License if Applicable: Bussers working in establishments serving alcohol should secure this license if their role involves serving or clearing alcoholic beverages.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level roles in local restaurants or cafes help build skills and open doors to advancement.
- Stay Updated on Industry Best Practices: Taking advantage of training offered by organizations like the New Mexico Restaurant Association can increase employability.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Santa Fe
Santa Fe boasts several prominent establishments actively hiring Bussers, including:
- Chocolate Maven Bakery & Cafe
- Boxcar
- The Club at Las Campanas
Establishments That Bussers in Santa Fe Work At
Bussers in Santa Fe typically find employment in a range of dining establishments:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues often have steady hiring needs, though the pay scale might be moderate.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Pay tends to be higher here, with better tip potential and sometimes additional benefits.
- Hotels and Resorts: Bussers employed here may enjoy higher wages and more comprehensive employment packages.
- Cafes and Bakeries: Smaller scale establishments offer entry points into hospitality, though pay and tips can vary widely.
The type of establishment significantly influences a Busser’s earning potential, with higher-end environments generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Santa Fe for Bussers
If you are interested in roles related to a Busser, there are several similar hospitality positions to consider that may offer different responsibilities and salary ranges.
These include Backwaiter, Food Runner, and Dishwasher roles which share aspects of restaurant support work.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Santa Fe
Bussers should be informed about local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights.
- State labor laws and workforce resources can be found at the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
- Tax regulations impacting Bussers are detailed by the New Mexico Taxation and Revenue Department.
- For local Santa Fe legal ordinances and employment guidelines, visit the City of Santa Fe Official Website.