Busser in St. Louis, MO
Bussers in St. Louis, MO, in 2025, earn approximately $13.30 per hour, which translates to about $532.00 per week, $2,305.33 per month, and $27,664.00 per year.
The demand for Bussers in St. Louis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, suggesting a positive outlook for job opportunities and a healthy labor market in this field within the city.
How Much Does a Busser Make in St. Louis, MO?
The salary of a Busser in St. Louis varies based on experience and employer, with clear tiers from entry level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.63 | $465.20 | $2,011.73 | $24,140.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.30 | $532.00 | $2,305.33 | $27,664.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.22 | $608.80 | $2,627.73 | $31,657.60 |
Do Bussers in St. Louis Earn Tips?
Bussers typically earn tips by assisting servers and cleaning tables promptly, which can add an extra $3 to $5 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and busy periods.
Busser Salary in St. Louis vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of $13.30 per hour, translating to about $27,664 per year.
In St. Louis, MO, the hourly and yearly wages for Bussers match this national average, indicating that pay is competitive with the rest of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near St. Louis for Bussers
Nearby areas offer different pay rates for Bussers:
- Clayton: $21.75 per hour
- Chesterfield: $14.87 per hour
Clayton is a notably higher paying area for Bussers, reflecting possibly more upscale dining establishments or different market dynamics.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in St. Louis?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Busser in St. Louis:
- Experience and Efficiency: Those with more experience and the ability to work quickly during peak times usually earn higher wages and can earn better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants often pay more than casual or fast-food eateries, reflecting the service level expected.
- Shift Hours: Working evenings, weekends, or holidays may come with higher pay or more tipping opportunities.
- Skill Level and Additional Duties: Bussers who take on extra responsibilities, such as assisting servers or managing sections, may receive higher compensation.
How To Become a Busser in St. Louis
Getting started as a Busser in St. Louis usually involves the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Programs such as the St. Louis Community College Culinary Arts Program provide strong foundational skills for working in food service.
- Consider Formal Culinary Education: Schools like L'École Culinaire offer hands-on training that can enhance food service skills, making candidates more attractive to employers.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is highly recommended to learn proper food safety and handling.
- Meet Legal Requirements: For some establishments, the Missouri Responsible Serving® of Alcohol Certification may be necessary, especially if assisting in areas serving alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level roles such as a Busser helps build skills and understanding of restaurant operations.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in St. Louis
Some of the prominent employers hiring Bussers in St. Louis include:
- 54th Street
- The Cheesecake Factory
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Bussers in St. Louis Work At
Bussers commonly work in a variety of dining establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady work and opportunities for tips but offer moderate base pay.
- Fast Casual Establishments: These jobs tend to have higher turnover; salaries may be lower but tips can vary.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Bussers here generally earn higher wages and tips due to upscale clientele and service standards.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the overall compensation for Bussers, with fine dining offering the greatest earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in St. Louis for Bussers
If you are interested in hospitality jobs related to being a Busser, you may consider roles that also involve food service and customer support, such as Food Runner, Backwaiter, or Dishwasher.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in St. Louis
Understanding labor laws and taxation is essential for Bussers working in St. Louis:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for information on labor regulations.
- Missouri-specific employment rules and worker rights are available at labor.mo.gov.
- The City of St. Louis official website offers resources pertinent to local regulations and services.