Food Runner Salary in Athens, GA
Food Runners in Athens, GA, in 2025, earn approximately $14.98 per hour, which translates to about $599.20 per week, $2,596.53 per month, and $31,158.40 per year.
The job demand for Food Runners in Athens is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the local dining and hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Athens, GA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Athens varies by experience and skill level. Below is a breakdown across typical experience tiers:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.09 | $523.60 | $2,266.27 | $27,139.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.98 | $599.20 | $2,596.53 | $31,158.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.92 | $676.80 | $2,930.40 | $35,193.60 |
Do Food Runners in Athens Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips in addition to their base salary. On average, they can make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant and service quality. This supplemental income can significantly improve their overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Athens vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $16.92 per hour, which equates to approximately $35,193.60 per year.
Comparing this to Athens’ average hourly wage of $14.98 and yearly salary of $31,158.40, Food Runners in Athens make slightly less than the national average. This difference can be attributed to varying living costs and local market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Athens for Food Runners
Nearby areas offering higher salaries for Food Runners include:
- Downtown Athens: $15.50 per hour
- Five Points: $17.60 per hour
Those willing to work in these neighborhoods may find better pay opportunities compared to other areas around Athens.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Athens?
Several important factors influence the salary of a Food Runner in Athens:
- Experience and Tenure: More experienced Food Runners who demonstrate efficiency and excellent service often command higher pay.
- Skills and Certifications: Skills such as multitasking, communication, and knowledge of food safety can enhance earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working at high-end or fast-casual restaurants typically offers better wages and tip opportunities than casual dining.
- Shift Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may provide shift differentials or higher chances for tips.
- Local Market Demand: Higher demand for Food Runners in busy urban areas can push wages upward.
How To Become a Food Runner in Athens
To pursue a career as a Food Runner in Athens, consider the following steps:
- Acquire Relevant Training: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Athens Technical College can provide foundational knowledge valuable for Food Runners.
- Hospitality Education: The Hospitality Management Program at the University of Georgia offers insights into restaurant operations and customer service.
- Obtain Certifications: Certification like ServSafe Food Handler and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) enhances your understanding of food safety and responsible service, which are highly regarded.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in restaurants help build real-world skills.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Athens
Several well-known establishments actively hire Food Runners in Athens, including:
- Chili's
- Five Guys
- McDonald's
Establishments That Food Runners in Athens Work At
Food Runners typically find employment in a variety of eating establishments including casual dining, fast casual, and full-service restaurants.
Casual and fast casual locations usually feature quicker workflow and consistent shifts, which might offer steady but modest wages.
Upscale full-service restaurants may provide higher base pay and greater tip opportunities, reflecting the elevated customer service standards.
Differences in employer type, location, and clientele all contribute to variability in Food Runner salaries.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Athens for Food Runners
If you’re interested in related roles within hospitality, consider these similar careers:
These include Busser, Server, and Backwaiter positions — roles that often collaborate closely with Food Runners in restaurant settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Athens
Food Runners should be familiar with local and federal labor laws and taxation requirements to understand their rights and obligations as employees.
- Review general labor laws at the Federal Department of Labor website.
- For Georgia state-specific labor regulations, visit the Georgia Department of Labor.
- Local labor and employment resources can be found on the Athens-Clarke County official site.