Busser Salary in Trenton, NJ
Bussers in Trenton, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $11.34 per hour, which translates to about $453.60 per week, $1,965.60 per month, and $23,587.20 per year.
The demand for Bussers in Trenton is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook for individuals seeking employment in this important hospitality role.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Trenton, NJ?
The salary of a Busser in Trenton can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.14 | $405.60 | $1,758.40 | $21,100.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.34 | $453.60 | $1,965.60 | $23,587.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.81 | $512.40 | $2,213.40 | $26,644.80 |
Do Bussers in Trenton Earn Tips?
Bussers typically can earn tips in addition to their hourly pay. In many establishments, bussers receive an extra approximately $2 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and customer volume, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Busser Salary in Trenton, NJ vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average of around $14.22 per hour, translating to about $29,577.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Trenton earn less — about $11.34 per hour and $23,587.20 annually. This difference can reflect the local cost of living and market factors in Trenton.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Trenton for Bussers
Nearby zip codes with higher pay for Bussers include:
- 08691: $13.50 per hour
- 08628: $12.80 per hour
Working in these surrounding areas of Trenton may offer Bussers the opportunity to earn a higher hourly wage.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Trenton?
Several factors influence how much a Busser can earn in Trenton:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Bussers tend to earn higher wages as they develop efficiency and reliability.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or fine dining restaurants generally offer better pay and tips than fast food or casual eateries.
- Skills and Responsibilities: Bussers who take on extra duties like assisting servers or handling side work may receive higher compensation.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts, which are busier times, might come with higher tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Local Market Demand: Hiring demand and competition among restaurants affect wage levels.
How To Become a Busser in Trenton
Starting a career as a Busser in Trenton involves some straightforward steps to increase your chances for success:
- Gain Basic Knowledge: While formal education is not always required, completing relevant programs like the Mercer County Community College Culinary Arts Program can provide insights into hospitality and food service.
- Understand Hospitality Management: Taking courses such as the Princeton Adult School Hospitality Management Course can be beneficial for career advancement.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Many restaurants prefer Bussers with certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification to ensure safe food handling.
- Training in Responsible Alcohol Service: Certifications like TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can be advantageous when working in establishments that serve alcohol.
- Develop Soft Skills: Exceptional customer service, teamwork, and communication skills are important to succeed.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Trenton
Major employers in Trenton regularly hiring Bussers include:
- McDonald's
- Applebee's
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Bussers in Trenton Work At
Bussers work in a variety of dining establishments, including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These places often offer numerous job openings but at somewhat lower wages and tips.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These tend to offer higher pay rates and greater tip potential due to the upscale nature of service.
- Hotels and Banquet Halls: Employment here may come with consistent hours and the possibility of benefits, with variable pay depending on the event.
- Cafes and Diners: Smaller venues might provide less structured wages but flexible schedules.
The type of establishment significantly impacts overall earnings, with higher-end venues generally providing better compensation for Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Trenton for Bussers
If you're interested in related roles to Busser, consider these career paths that share similar hospitality responsibilities:
These careers include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Server positions, which involve complementary duties in the food and beverage service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Trenton
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Bussers to safeguard their rights and manage finances properly.
- Review federal employment regulations at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- New Jersey's labor laws and guidelines are detailed on the New Jersey Department of Labor website.
- Local information for workers in Trenton can be found on the City of Trenton's official site.