Busser Salary in South Bend, IN
Bussers in South Bend, IN, in 2026, 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 South Bend is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend and expanding opportunities in the hospitality sector locally.
How Much Does a Busser Make in South Bend, IN?
The salary of a Busser in South Bend can vary depending on experience and the employer, but here is a general breakdown of earnings based on experience 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 | $26,960.00 |
Do Bussers in South Bend Earn Tips?
Bussers generally do earn tips, often as a part of the overall service team. Bussers in South Bend can typically make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift.
Busser Salary in South Bend vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $10.22 per hour, translating to about $21,257.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in South Bend earn slightly higher wages, with an average of $11.00 per hour and $22,880.00 annually. This reflects slightly better pay opportunities in South Bend for this position.
Highest-Paying Areas Near South Bend for Bussers
When looking at nearby areas, Busser salaries vary slightly:
- Downtown South Bend: $12.00 per hour
- Eddy Street Commons: $11.50 per hour
Those working in Downtown South Bend might see higher hourly rates compared to other locales, indicating localized differences within the city.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in South Bend?
Several factors can affect how much a Busser earns in South Bend:
- Experience and Seniority: More experienced Bussers generally command higher wages and better tips.
- Skills and Efficiency: Bussers who are faster, more reliable, and have strong customer service skills often receive higher pay and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and hotels tend to pay more than casual or fast-casual dining venues.
- Shift and Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays can sometimes come with pay differentials.
- Local Demand and Market Conditions: Economic factors and local labor supply influence salary levels.
How To Become a Busser in South Bend
Starting a career as a Busser in South Bend involves several practical steps.
Obtain foundational experience in customer service and teamwork, which is highly valued in this role.
Training programs such as the Ivy Tech Community College Culinary Arts Program provide useful culinary and hospitality skills, creating a competitive edge for job seekers.
The South Bend Community School Corporation Adult Education offers hospitality and restaurant management courses that equip candidates with essential operational and customer service knowledge.
Certifications can also boost employability; for example, the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is nationally recognized and ensures proper food handling and sanitation skills.
For those interested in serving alcohol, the Indiana Alcohol Server Training Program is required and educates on responsible alcohol service and state regulations.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in South Bend
Some of the top employers in South Bend looking for experienced Bussers include:
- Sunrise Cafe
- South Bend Chocolate Company
- Tippecanoe Place Restaurant
Establishments That Bussers in South Bend Work At
Bussers in South Bend typically find employment in a variety of dining settings, including:
- Casual Restaurants: Often entry points for Bussers with consistent but moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These may pay slightly less but offer faster-paced work environments.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: These venues usually offer higher pay and better tipping potential due to clientele and service expectations.
- Hotels or Event Venues: Bussers working here might have opportunities for higher earnings especially during events and busy seasons.
The type of establishment greatly impacts earnings, with fine dining and hotels typically providing the best overall compensation combining wages and tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in South Bend for Bussers
If you are interested in careers similar to a Busser, consider the following roles, which share related skills and responsibilities:
These include Backwaiter, Fine Dining Server, and Cashier—positions that involve customer interaction and support roles within the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in South Bend
Bussers should be aware of key state and federal labor laws and tax regulations to protect their rights and understand their financial obligations.
- Visit the Indiana Department of Workforce Development for employment resources and local labor market information.
- The Indiana Department of Labor website provides information on wage regulations, workplace safety, and labor rights.
- For federal tax guidelines, employers and employees can consult the Internal Revenue Service.