Food Runner Salary in Austin, TX
Food Runners in Austin, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $17.63 per hour, which translates to about $705.20 per week, $3,055.87 per month, and $36,670.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Austin is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market within the hospitality and restaurant industry in this vibrant city.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Austin, TX?
The salary of a Food Runner in Austin can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Austin Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn tips as part of their income due to their role in customer service and food delivery within restaurants. On average, they can make an additional around $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which significantly supplements their base pay.
Food Runner Salary in Austin vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $17.63 per hour, translating to about $36,670.40 per year.
Food Runners in Austin align closely with the national average, earning about $17.63 per hour and $36,670.40 annually. This parity indicates a competitive pay scale for this position in Austin, balanced with the city's local cost of living and restaurant market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Austin for Food Runners
When considering nearby neighborhoods within Austin, the pay for Food Runners can vary:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- South Congress: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in Downtown Austin enjoy the highest pay rates among local areas, followed closely by those in South Congress, likely due to the concentration of upscale dining and busy venues.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Austin?
Several factors influence the salary of a Food Runner in Austin:
- Experience Level: Food Runners with more years on the job typically earn higher wages due to efficiency and knowledge of restaurant operations.
- Skills and Speed: Ability to multitask, manage orders accurately, and deliver food promptly positively impacts earning potential.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end or busy restaurants and hotels often yields better pay compared to casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening, weekend, and holiday shifts can attract higher hourly rates or additional pay differentials.
- Tips and Customer Service: Exceptional customer service skills can result in better tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Food Runner in Austin
To become a successful Food Runner in Austin, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Experience: Many start as hostesses, bussers, or in entry-level dining roles to learn the flow of restaurant service.
- Complete Relevant Culinary Training: Programs like the Austin Community College Culinary Arts Program or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Austin offer comprehensive training in food preparation and service techniques, useful for advancement.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the Texas Food Handler Certification or the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often mandatory, ensuring adherence to food safety regulations.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Food Runners interact directly with patrons, so strong communication and teamwork skills enhance job performance.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Austin
Austin boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and some of the top employers hiring Food Runners include:
- Ramen Tatsu-ya
- RedFarm
- Maggiano's Little Italy
Establishments That Food Runners in Austin Work At
Food Runners in Austin can find positions in a variety of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These environments often feature steady hours and moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Venues: Typically offer faster-paced work with occasional tipping opportunities and variable pay.
- Fine Dining: Usually provide higher wages and more consistent tips due to upscale patronage.
- Hotels and Banquet Settings: Additional responsibilities may come with higher pay or bonuses.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly influence Food Runner salaries and tip potentials in Austin.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Austin for Food Runners
If you’re considering roles similar to Food Runner, the hospitality industry offers several related positions that might interest you.
These include Backwaiter, Bartender, and Busser, roles which share many service-related responsibilities and offer potential upward mobility.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Austin
Food Runners should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws to understand employee rights and tax obligations.
- Detailed information about Texas employment laws can be found on the official Texas government website.
- Federal labor regulations and standards are available at the U.S. Department of Labor's website.