Food Runner Salary in Arlington, VA
Food Runners in Arlington, VA, in 2025, earn an average of $19.88 per hour, which comes out to approximately $795.20 per week, $3,445.87 per month, and $41,350.40 per year.
The job market for Food Runners in Arlington is looking positive with a projected growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating a solid demand for this role in the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Arlington, VA?
The salary for a Food Runner in Arlington, VA varies depending on experience level and expertise. Below is an overview of typical earnings at different stages of a Food Runner’s career.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.88 | $795.20 | $3,445.87 | $41,350.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $33.30 | $1,332.00 | $5,740.00 | $68,640.00 |
Do Food Runners in Arlington Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do not earn tips directly, as their role mainly involves delivering food from the kitchen to the dining area rather than direct customer service. However, some establishments may have tipping pools that include Food Runners, potentially providing additional income.
Food Runner Salary in Arlington, VA vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn about $18.21 per hour, which equates to roughly $37,876.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Arlington earn slightly more, with an average hourly wage of $19.88 and an annual salary of about $41,350.40. This reflects the area's local cost of living and demand for food service workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arlington for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer competitive pay for Food Runners as well:
- Rosslyn: $21.50 per hour
- Ballston: $20.75 per hour
Those willing to commute to Rosslyn or Ballston may find opportunities for higher earnings than in Arlington proper.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Arlington, VA?
A variety of factors impact how much a Food Runner earns in Arlington:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners typically command higher wages due to familiarity with restaurant operations and speed.
- Skills and Efficiency: Those who demonstrate excellent multitasking and organizational skills may be favored with better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy urban venues tend to offer higher salaries than casual dining or fast food chains.
- Shift Hours: Night or weekend shifts may provide higher hourly rates or shift differentials.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Arlington’s relatively higher cost of living compared to other regions can push wages upward.
How To Become a Food Runner in Arlington, VA
Becoming a Food Runner in Arlington can be straightforward with the right approach and training.
- Develop Basic Culinary and Hospitality Skills: Programs like the Arlington Career Center Culinary Arts Program offer hands-on training that can prepare you for entry-level food service roles.
- Consider Hospitality Management Education: Studying hospitality through Northern Virginia Community College’s Hospitality Management Program can provide an advantage in restaurant environments.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification are commonly required and enhance employability.
- Start in Entry-Level Positions: Gaining experience as a Food Runner, Busser, or similar roles will build familiarity with restaurant workflows.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Arlington, VA
Several prominent employers in Arlington commonly seek Food Runners:
- CARLYLE
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Lucky Strike Entertainment
Establishments That Food Runners in Arlington Work At
Food Runners can find employment in a diverse range of establishments across Arlington:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work but often with moderate hourly pay.
- Fast-Casual Chains: These venues typically have fast-paced environments with potential for shift flexibility and tip pools.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Venues: Work here usually offers higher salaries and opportunities for advancement.
- Hotels and Event Spaces: Food Runners in these places may have varied schedules and sometimes better pay based on event scale.
The type of establishment influences hourly rates, benefits, and opportunities for tips or bonuses.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arlington, VA for Food Runners
If you're considering roles similar to Food Runner, here are some related positions that share responsibilities in food service and hospitality:
These include Busser, Backwaiter, and Dishwasher positions—all integral to smooth restaurant operations and offering varied pay scales.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Arlington, VA
Food Runners should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax requirements to ensure proper working conditions and compliance.
- Refer to the Federal website for labor laws and employment standards for comprehensive guidelines on workplace rights and obligations.
- Visit the Virginia state website for labor laws and workplace regulations to understand state-specific standards affecting Food Runners.
- The Local Arlington government website offers resources on employment, business regulations, and community guidelines relevant to workers and employers.