Food Runner Salary in Bakersfield, CA
Food Runners in Bakersfield, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $16.00 per hour, which translates to about $640.00 per week, $2,773.33 per month, and $33,280.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Bakersfield is growing moderately at around 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for efficient service staff in the local food and beverage industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Bakersfield, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Bakersfield can vary depending on experience and specific employer, but the following breakdown provides a general guide across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.50 | $540.00 | $2,340.00 | $28,080.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.00 | $800.00 | $3,466.67 | $41,600.00 |
Do Food Runners in Bakersfield Earn Tips?
Food Runners often receive tips in addition to their hourly wage. In many establishments, they can earn around $10 or more per hour in tips, significantly boosting their overall income.
Food Runner Salary in Bakersfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn approximately $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to this, Food Runners in Bakersfield earn a somewhat higher average wage of $16.00 per hour and $33,280.00 annually.
This differential may be influenced by local demand, cost of living, and the density of restaurants and food service venues in Bakersfield.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Bakersfield for Food Runners
Nearby neighborhoods offer slightly varied pay rates for Food Runners:
- Downtown Bakersfield: $17.50 per hour
- Seven Oaks: $18.00 per hour
Food Runners working in Seven Oaks tend to earn the highest wages, followed closely by those in Downtown Bakersfield.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Bakersfield?
Several factors can influence how much a Food Runner in Bakersfield earns:
- Experience and Efficiency: More experienced Food Runners who can quickly and accurately deliver orders tend to command higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy casual dining spots often pay better wages and provide more tipping opportunities.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts might offer higher pay or more tips compared to daytime shifts.
- Additional Skills: Some Food Runners who take on extra responsibilities such as bussing tables or assisting wait staff may be compensated more.
How To Become a Food Runner in Bakersfield
Becoming a Food Runner typically involves the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Participating in local programs like the Bakersfield College Culinary Arts Program can provide foundational skills in food safety and preparation.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: Securing the mandatory California Food Handler Card is required for working in most food service establishments.
- Consider Additional Training: Programs such as the Kern High School District's ROC Culinary Arts Program offer valuable culinary education for high school students preparing for food industry roles.
- Acquire ServSafe Food Handler Certification: This nationally recognized certification improves job prospects and ensures understanding of proper food safety practices.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Bakersfield
Bakersfield’s vibrant dining scene includes several key employers frequently hiring Food Runners:
- Yard House
- Chili's
- Red Lobster
- Studio Movie Grill
- Chuy's Baja Grill
Establishments That Food Runners in Bakersfield Work At
Food Runners in Bakersfield are generally employed at a range of dining establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often provide steady work and base wages with tipping potential.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments sometimes offer less tipping but consistent hourly wages.
- Fine Dining Venues: While rarer for Food Runners, these locations can offer higher pay and more tips.
- Catering and Event Services: Temporary or seasonal work here might pay well depending on the event scale.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary and tip income.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Bakersfield for Food Runners
Food Runners interested in exploring related roles in hospitality can consider the following:
These include roles such as Backwaiter, Busser, and Fast Food Worker, all of which share skills related to customer service and food delivery.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Bakersfield
Food Runners should be aware of labor regulations and tax requirements affecting their work:
- Refer to the California Department of Industrial Relations for detailed information about state labor laws and worker rights.
- The California Employment Development Department offers resources on employment services and unemployment insurance.
- For federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor.