Food Runner Salary in Albuquerque, NM
Food Runners in Albuquerque, NM, in 2025, earn approximately $14.87 per hour, which translates to about $594.80 per week, $2,577.47 per month, and $30,929.60 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Albuquerque is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook and increasing opportunities for this role in the hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Albuquerque, NM?
The salary of a Food Runner in Albuquerque varies based on experience and employer type. Here is a breakdown by experience level:
| 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) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Albuquerque Earn Tips?
Food Runners generally do earn tips as part of their compensation. They can expect to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. Tips can significantly complement their base pay.
Food Runner Salary in Albuquerque vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $14.87 per hour, or approximately $30,929.60 annually.
Food Runners in Albuquerque earn very close to the national average at about $14.87 hourly and annual earnings of $30,929.60. This reflects a competitive pay structure in the city compared to the broader US market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Albuquerque for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer slightly varied pay rates for Food Runners, including:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Nob Hill: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in Nob Hill can expect the highest pay near Albuquerque, making it an attractive area for job seekers in this position.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Albuquerque?
Several factors can influence how much a Food Runner earns in Albuquerque:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Food Runners or those with excellent multitasking and customer service skills tend to receive better pay and tips.
- Type of Establishment: Work environments such as upscale restaurants or busy hotel kitchens typically offer higher wages and more tip opportunities.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may come with increased pay or more tips due to higher customer volume.
- Geographic Location: Working in popular or high-traffic areas like Nob Hill or Downtown Albuquerque can increase earning potential.
How To Become a Food Runner in Albuquerque
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Albuquerque involves a few practical steps to increase your chances of employment and earning potential:
- Complete Culinary or Food Service Training: Programs like the Central New Mexico Community College Culinary Arts Program provide useful skills applicable to Food Runner roles.
- Consider Food Service Management Courses: The University of New Mexico Continuing Education Food Service Management courses can help advance knowledge in hospitality operations.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are widely required and improve employability.
- Acquire Alcohol Service Permits: The New Mexico Alcohol Server Permit is necessary if serving alcohol, adding to your qualifications.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Albuquerque
Some of the prominent employers in Albuquerque currently looking for Food Runners include:
- Flix Brewhouse
- Chili's
- Five Guys
Establishments That Food Runners in Albuquerque Work At
Food Runners find employment in a variety of hospitality venues, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often provide steady work but with modest pay and tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Chains: Typically offer consistent hours and hourly wages but may have lower tip earnings.
- Hotel Restaurants and Event Venues: These usually offer better pay and more chances for higher tips due to large volumes and events.
The type of establishment greatly affects the total compensation a Food Runner can earn, with upscale venues and busy locations often paying more.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Albuquerque for Food Runners
If you are considering roles related to Food Running, the following positions might interest you:
Relevant roles include Backwaiter, Busser, and Dishwasher, all of which share similar duties or work environments to Food Runners and offer different career paths within hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Albuquerque
Food Runners in Albuquerque should be aware of labor laws and tax regulations to understand their rights and obligations.
- See the Federal website for labor laws and regulations for comprehensive employment information.
- Visit the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions for state-specific labor policies and resources.
- Check the City of Albuquerque official website for local employment standards and support.
