Food Runner Salary in Aurora, CO
Food Runners in Aurora, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $15.80 per hour, which translates to about $632.00 per week, $2,738.67 per month, and $32,864.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Aurora is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job growth and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry in this region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Aurora, CO?
The salary of a Food Runner in Aurora can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.45 | $538.00 | $2,324.67 | $27,880.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.80 | $632.00 | $2,738.67 | $32,864.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.75 | $710.00 | $3,061.67 | $36,920.00 |
Do Food Runners in Aurora Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips as part of their total compensation, especially in busy restaurants. They can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift.
Food Runner Salary in Aurora vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Aurora make slightly more, earning about $15.80 per hour and approximately $32,864 annually, reflecting the local demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Aurora for Food Runners
Nearby areas offering competitive wages for Food Runners include:
- Denver, CO: $15.50 per hour
- Boulder, CO: $17.60 per hour
Boulder offers the highest pay among the nearby cities, likely due to a higher cost of living and more upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Aurora?
Several factors influence the salary of a Food Runner in Aurora, including:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners who are familiar with the restaurant flow may command higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Quick and efficient service skills can increase earning potential through tips and employer recognition.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or busy restaurants often pay more and generate higher tip income compared to casual dining places.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts may provide opportunities for higher tips or shift differentials.
- Local Market Demand: Aurora’s growing hospitality industry fuels demand and competitive pay for Food Runners.
How To Become a Food Runner in Aurora
To start a career as a Food Runner in Aurora, consider the following steps:
- Complete Culinary or Hospitality Courses: Programs like the Culinary Arts Certificate Program at Community College of Aurora or the Hospitality Management Program at Metropolitan State University of Denver provide foundational knowledge.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification enhance safety and service credentials.
- Gain Work Experience: Entry-level positions in casual dining or fast-casual restaurants can help build relevant skills.
- Develop Communication and Customer Service Skills: Essential for efficient coordination between kitchen and front-of-house staff.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Aurora
Some of the prominent employers seeking Food Runners in Aurora include:
- Marcus Theatres
- Movie Tavern
- Chili's
Establishments That Food Runners in Aurora Work At
Food Runners in Aurora typically work across a range of hospitality settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offering steady work and moderate tip potential.
- Fast Casual Chains: Generally provide consistent hours but lower tip earnings.
- Theatres and Entertainment Venues: Often provide seasonal or part-time opportunities with varied pay structures.
The style and clientele of these establishments directly affect Food Runners' salaries, especially through tips and shift premiums.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Aurora for Food Runners
If you're interested in careers related to being a Food Runner, here are some similar roles in Aurora:
These include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Dishwasher positions, which share similar environments in the food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Aurora
Food Runners should be aware of labor laws and tax responsibilities in Colorado.
- Visit the Colorado Government website for detailed information on state labor standards and worker rights.
- For federal labor laws, the U.S. Department of Labor website is a valuable resource.