Busser Salary in Skokie, IL
Bussers in Skokie, IL, 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 demand for Bussers in Skokie is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Skokie, IL?
The salary of a Busser in Skokie varies by experience, but here’s a breakdown across different levels:
| 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 Skokie Earn Tips?
Bussers often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. On average, a Busser in Skokie can make around $3 to $6 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant and shift. This can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Busser Salary in Skokie vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.24 per hour, which amounts to about $29,619.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, a Busser in Skokie at $11.00 per hour makes less, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Skokie for Bussers
Nearby areas offering higher pays for Bussers include:
- Downtown Skokie: $12.00 per hour
- Old Orchard: $11.50 per hour
These areas tend to have establishments that can pay slightly better due to higher customer traffic and service demand.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Skokie?
Several factors affect how much a Busser can earn in Skokie:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Bussers who work efficiently and have strong customer service skills generally earn higher wages and tips.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and busy venues tend to pay more for Bussers compared to casual dining or fast food places.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts often offer more opportunities for tips and sometimes higher hourly pay.
- Local Demand: In areas with high tourism or dining activity, Bussers may find better-paying positions.
How To Become a Busser in Skokie
To become a Busser in Skokie, consider these steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Understanding restaurant etiquette and food handling helps when starting out.
- Food Handler Certification: The state of Illinois requires all food service workers, including Bussers, to have Food Handler Certification to ensure safe food practices.
- Enroll in Hospitality Courses: Programs like Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program and Kendall College Hospitality Management Program provide valuable foundational skills.
- Complete Allergen Awareness Training: This is an important certification to manage food allergens and contribute to customer safety.
- Start Entry-Level: Many Bussers begin in fast casual or casual dining and progress with experience.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Skokie
Several well-known chains actively hire Bussers in the Skokie area:
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Cracker Barrel
Establishments That Bussers in Skokie Work At
Bussers typically work in a range of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work and moderate pay with tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Chains: Usually pay slightly lower wages but provide consistent shifts.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Venues: Often pay higher wages and tips due to higher menu prices and larger parties.
- Hotels and Banquet Halls: May offer good benefits and opportunities for advancement.
The type of establishment affects both the base wage and potential tips a Busser can earn.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Skokie for Bussers
If you're considering roles related to Bussing, you might look into these similar positions in Skokie:
These include roles such as Server, Backwaiter, and Dishwasher that similarly support restaurant operations and may offer different earning potentials and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Skokie
Bussers should be familiar with important labor regulations and tax requirements at the federal, state, and local levels:
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific information can be found at the Illinois Department of Employment Security website.
- Local Skokie regulations and employment information are available on the official Skokie government website.