Busser Salary in Winston-Salem, NC
Bussers in Winston-Salem, NC, 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 Winston-Salem is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive and expanding job market for hospitality support staff in the area.
How Much Does a Busser Make in Winston-Salem, NC?
The salary of a Busser in Winston-Salem varies by experience, but here is a general breakdown of earnings across different levels:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.34 | $453.60 | $1,960.80 | $23,587.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $13.00 | $520.00 | $2,246.67 | $27,040.00 |
Do Bussers in Winston-Salem Earn Tips?
Bussers in Winston-Salem generally do earn tips, which can add approximately $5-$10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and customer traffic. Tips greatly enhance their overall earnings beyond base wages.
Busser Salary in Winston-Salem vs. National Average
Nationally, bussers earn on average about $14.50 per hour, which equates to about $30,160 per year.
Comparing this to Winston-Salem, bussers earn somewhat below the national hourly average at $11.34 per hour and $23,587.20 annually. Regional factors such as cost of living and local demand influence this difference.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Winston-Salem for Bussers
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for bussers:
- Downtown: $12.50 per hour
- West End: $12.00 per hour
Living or working in Downtown or West End can provide bussers with increased earnings compared to other parts of Winston-Salem.
What Influences a Busser’s Salary in Winston-Salem?
Several factors affect how much a Busser can earn in Winston-Salem:
- Experience and Skill Level: Bussers with more experience or who demonstrate efficiency and strong customer service skills tend to make higher wages and better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Higher-end restaurants and busy venues generally pay more or offer better tipping opportunities than casual or fast-food places.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts often come with increased pay or more tipping potential.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Areas with a higher cost of living or greater hospitality traffic tend to offer better pay for bussers.
How To Become a Busser in Winston-Salem
Those interested in becoming a Busser in Winston-Salem can take several steps to enter the field and improve their prospects:
- Complete Basic Food Handler Training: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification demonstrates knowledge of food safety and is often required by employers.
- Acquire North Carolina Alcohol Server Permit: For bussers working in establishments serving alcohol, this permit is essential to ensure proper service and compliance with state laws.
- Enroll in Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Programs like the Forsyth Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Wake Forest University Hospitality Management Course provide valuable skills and knowledge relevant to the role.
- Gain Entry-Level Work Experience: Starting in food service or related roles can build practical skills and prepare for busser positions.
Top Employers Hiring Bussers in Winston-Salem
Some of the key employers actively seeking Bussers in Winston-Salem include:
- Outback Steakhouse
- Red Lobster
- Dave & Buster's
Establishments That Bussers in Winston-Salem Work At
Bussers typically work across a variety of establishments that influence their earnings:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often hire bussers and offer steady hourly pay with tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Bussers here might earn less in tips but often work faster-paced shifts.
- Fine Dining Venues: Bussers may earn higher tips and wages due to the premium service level required.
- Hotels and Event Venues: These locations provide varied opportunities, sometimes with higher pay for banquet or event support roles.
The type of establishment directly affects the busser's salary potential and earning through tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Winston-Salem for Bussers
If you are considering roles similar to Busser, there are several related positions in the hospitality industry that share some duties and career paths:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Dishwasher positions, each playing important roles in hospitality operations with varying salary levels and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Bussers in Winston-Salem
Bussers must understand federal and state labor laws and taxation that govern employment conditions:
- For general federal labor standards and workers' rights, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific laws and regulations in North Carolina, including wage and hour rules, check the North Carolina Department of Labor website.