Food Runner Salary in Billings, MT
Food Runners in Billings, MT, in 2026, earn approximately $15.51 per hour, which translates to about $620.40 per week, $2,688.40 per month, and $32,260.80 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Billings is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Billings, MT?
The salary of a Food Runner in Billings can range depending on experience level and employer type, as shown below.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.87 | $474.80 | $2,048.53 | $24,581.60 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.51 | $620.40 | $2,688.40 | $32,260.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.27 | $810.80 | $3,515.47 | $42,161.60 |
Do Food Runners in Billings Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn modest tips as they assist servers in delivering food promptly. It is common for Food Runners in Billings to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, supplementing their base salary significantly.
Food Runner Salary in Billings vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $17 per hour, which totals approximately $35,360 per year.
In comparison, Food Runners in Billings earn slightly less at about $15.51 per hour and $32,260.80 annually.
This difference can be attributed to lower living costs in Billings relative to other parts of the country, while still providing a competitive wage locally.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Billings for Food Runners
Nearby regions offer competitive wages for Food Runners:
- Area 1: $15.63 per hour
- Area 2: $15.75 per hour
These nearby areas may offer slightly higher pay, and commuting Food Runners could consider these for salary boosts.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Billings?
Several factors affect a Food Runner’s earning potential in Billings:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners often secure higher hourly rates and better tips.
- Skills: Efficiency, multitasking, and customer service skills can lead to increased earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining venues tend to pay more and offer better tips than casual or fast-food places.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with pay differentials or higher tipping opportunities.
- Certifications: Food safety certifications may make Food Runners more attractive to employers.
How To Become a Food Runner in Billings
To pursue a career as a Food Runner in Billings, consider the following steps:
- Enroll in Culinary or Hospitality Programs: The Culinary Arts Program at Montana State University Billings offers comprehensive training in culinary skills, food safety, and kitchen management.
- Consider Hospitality Management: The Hospitality Management Program at City College at MSU Billings provides education in hospitality operations and food and beverage management.
- Obtain Certifications: Nationally recognized certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the Montana Alcohol Server Training enhance employability and knowledge of food safety and responsible alcohol service.
- Gain Experience: Many Food Runners begin working in entry-level restaurant roles to develop skills and advance.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Billings
The following are prominent establishments regularly hiring Food Runners in Billings:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Olive Garden
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Food Runners in Billings Work At
Food Runners commonly work in a variety of dining environments, including:
- Casual Dining: These restaurants offer moderate wages and tipping opportunities, balancing volume and service.
- Fast Casual: Typically offer faster service with somewhat lower wages but steady shifts.
- Fine Dining: These establishments may provide higher salaries and greater tips due to upscale clientele and more attentive service.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resorts: May provide stable employment and higher pay based on the venue’s prestige.
Salary differences across these establishments reflect their service level, clientele, and operational scale.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Billings for Food Runners
If you are interested in roles similar to Food Runner, consider the following related positions that share skills and career pathways:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Fry Cook, all of which involve direct customer interaction and kitchen support roles essential to restaurant operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Billings
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Food Runners in Billings.
- Federal labor regulations and workplace rights can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment laws and labor resources for Montana are available at the Montana Department of Labor and Industry.