Food Runner Salary in Arvada, CO
Food Runners in Arvada, CO, in 2026, earn approximately $13.12 per hour, which translates to about $524.80 per week, $2,274.13 per month, and $27,289.60 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Arvada is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive trend and increasing opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Arvada, CO?
The salary of a Food Runner in Arvada can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment, but here is a general breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.47 | $418.80 | $1,812.20 | $21,753.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.12 | $524.80 | $2,274.13 | $27,289.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.77 | $630.80 | $2,709.87 | $32,761.60 |
Do Food Runners in Arvada Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn additional tips on top of their base salary. While the amount varies by establishment, they can typically make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, adding a significant boost to their income.
Food Runner Salary in Arvada, CO vs. National Average
The national average salary for Food Runners is approximately $13.12 per hour or about $27,289.60 per year.
In Arvada, Food Runners earn roughly the same as the national average at around $13.12 per hour, reflecting balanced wage levels for this position locally compared to nationwide standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Arvada for Food Runners
Nearby areas offering higher pay rates for Food Runners include:
- Olde Town Arvada: $14.50 per hour
- Westwoods: $15.00 per hour
These areas may offer slightly better earning potential, attracting Food Runners who prefer higher wages within proximity to Arvada.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Arvada?
Several key factors can affect a Food Runner’s salary in Arvada:
- Experience and Efficiency: More experienced Food Runners who work quickly and reliably tend to earn higher wages or receive better tips.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants often pay more than casual dining or fast food locations.
- Skills and Additional Duties: Those skilled in multitasking or assisting servers may receive higher pay.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might come with higher pay or more tips.
How To Become a Food Runner in Arvada
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Arvada can be straightforward. Here are some steps to pursue this role:
- Obtain basic culinary or food service training through programs like the Red Rocks Community College Culinary Arts Program, which offer foundational skills in food preparation and kitchen management.
- Gain hands-on experience via entry-level work or internships; programs such as the Emily Griffith Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide valuable practical exposure.
- Acquire food safety certifications including ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate knowledge of proper hygiene and safety practices.
- Optionally, obtain the TIPS Certification to be trained in responsible alcohol service, which can be a plus in establishments serving alcohol.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Arvada
Some of the prominent employers frequently hiring Food Runners in the Arvada area include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Arvada Work At
Food Runners in Arvada typically find opportunities in various types of establishments:
- Fast Food Chains: Like McDonald’s, offering routine tasks and generally consistent hourly wages.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These may offer better tips and sometimes higher hourly pay than fast food.
- Upscale Restaurants: Usually provide higher pay and tipping potential due to the clientele and service expectations.
- Event Venues and Catering: Can offer sporadic but often well-paying opportunities especially during busy events.
Different establishments impact pay structure, tip availability, and work environment, influencing overall compensation levels for Food Runners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Arvada for Food Runners
If you're interested in roles similar to Food Runner, here are some related positions you might consider exploring in Arvada:
These include Backwaiter, Barista, and Busser roles, which involve similar hospitality service skills and often act as stepping stones in the food and beverage industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Arvada
Food Runners should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment in Arvada and Colorado:
- Visit the Official website of the State of Colorado for detailed information on state labor laws and workplace regulations affecting hourly workers.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor's official website provides resources on wage laws, tax policies, and worker rights.