Busser Salary in Waco, TX
Bussers in Waco, TX, 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 job outlook for Bussers in Waco is positive, with the position expected to grow by 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in demand within the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Waco, TX?
The salary of a Busser in Waco varies depending on experience and employer. Below is a breakdown of typical pay scales based on experience.
| 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) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 | 
Do Bussers in Waco Earn Tips?
Bussers in Waco often receive tips in addition to their hourly wage. On average, a Busser can earn around $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall income, especially in busy dining establishments.
Busser Salary in Waco vs. National Average
Nationally, Bussers earn an average hourly wage of $14.32, which equates to approximately $29,785.60 per year.
Compared to the national average, Bussers in Waco earn less, with an hourly wage of $11.00 and an annual salary of $22,880.00. This difference may reflect the lower cost of living and wage standards in the Waco area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Waco for Bussers
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Bussers:
- Downtown Waco: $12.00 per hour
- Woodway: $11.50 per hour
Working in Downtown Waco provides the highest pay among nearby areas, making it an attractive option for Bussers seeking better earnings close to the city.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Waco?
Several factors affect how much a Busser can earn in Waco:
- Experience Level: Bussers with more experience or those who have developed specialized customer service skills often earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and busy bars tend to pay better and provide more opportunities for tips compared to casual or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts can offer higher pay or more tips due to higher customer traffic.
- Location: Bussers working in prime locations such as Downtown Waco generally command higher salaries.
How To Become a Busser in Waco
To pursue a career as a Busser in Waco, consider the following steps:
- Gain experience in customer service or entry-level restaurant roles to develop relevant skills.
- Complete the Texas Food Handler Certification, which is required for all food service employees in Texas to ensure safe food handling practices.
- Consider enrolling in hospitality and culinary programs such as the McLennan Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offers foundational courses beneficial for food service roles.
- The Texas State Technical College Hospitality Management Program is another pathway providing knowledge about food service operations and customer service.
- If working in venues serving alcohol, obtaining the TABC Certification is essential as it is required for alcohol-related service roles.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Waco
Some of the key employers in Waco actively hiring Bussers include:
- Olive Garden
- Magnolia Personnel Group
- Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen
- On the Border Mexican Grill and Cantina
- Ninfa's Mexican Restaurant
Establishments That Bussers in Waco Work At
Bussers typically find employment in a range of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Common employers offering stable wages and tips, often with a steady flow of customers.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These venues usually offer slightly lower pay but faster-paced work environments.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Offer higher wages and greater tipping potential due to premium service and clientele.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Provide opportunities for bussers to work at banquets, conferences, and catering events, sometimes with higher compensation.
The type of establishment can greatly influence income, especially through tip earnings, making fine dining venues potentially more lucrative for experienced Bussers.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Waco for Bussers
Individuals interested in the role of Busser may also consider related positions in hospitality that offer similar or complementary career paths.
These include Backwaiter, Food Runner, and Dishwasher positions, which involve support roles in food service and carry different responsibilities and pay ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Waco
Understanding the legal and tax requirements is crucial for anyone working as a Busser in Waco.
- The Texas Workforce Commission oversees employment and labor laws in Texas, providing regulations on minimum wage, work hours, and protections.
- The U.S. Department of Labor manages federal labor laws, including wage and hour standards, which also apply to Bussers in Waco.