Food Runner in Buffalo, NY
Food Runners in Buffalo, NY, in 2025, earn approximately $20.02 per hour, which translates to about $800.80 per week, $3,470.13 per month, and $41,641.60 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Buffalo is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for restaurant service staff in the region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Buffalo, NY?
The salary of a Food Runner in Buffalo varies depending on experience and employer type, but here is a general overview of earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.02 | $800.80 | $3,470.13 | $41,641.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.68 | $1,267.20 | $5,484.80 | $65,894.40 |
Do Food Runners in Buffalo Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips as part of their compensation, commonly receiving an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift.
Food Runner Salary in Buffalo vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners average around $18.52 per hour and approximately $38,521.60 annually.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Buffalo earn a bit more, with about $20.02 per hour and $41,641.60 per year, likely reflecting local market demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Buffalo for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer varied wages for Food Runners:
- Williamsville: $20.61 per hour
- Buffalo: $20.02 per hour
Williamsville offers slightly higher pay, making it an appealing option for Food Runners willing to commute.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Buffalo?
Several factors influence the salary of a Food Runner in Buffalo, NY:
- Experience and Skill Level: Well-trained Food Runners with excellent speed and accuracy tend to command better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy urban venues often pay more than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Work Hours and Shifts: Night shifts or weekend work can sometimes come with shift differentials increasing earnings.
- Tips and Customer Volume: Establishments with high guest turnover and tipping customers allow Food Runners to supplement salaries significantly.
How To Become a Food Runner in Buffalo, NY
To secure a position as a Food Runner in Buffalo, you can take several steps to improve your prospects:
- Gain Experience: Starting in entry-level roles in food service can help build relevant experience.
- Consider Culinary Education: Enroll in programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Erie Community College or the Hospitality Management Program at Buffalo State College, which provide valuable industry knowledge.
- Earn Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification demonstrate food safety and responsible service awareness, often required by employers.
- Develop Soft Skills: Strong communication and teamwork abilities are crucial in fast-paced dining environments.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Buffalo
Buffalo offers opportunities with various well-known organizations, including:
- Buffalo Chophouse
- Chef's Restaurant
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Food Runners in Buffalo Work At
Food Runners typically find positions in diverse types of food service establishments, such as:
- Casual Restaurants: These venues often provide steady work and moderate hourly wages.
- Fast-Casual Chains: They emphasize efficiency and speed, influencing job pace and sometimes pay.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Higher-end establishments generally offer better wages and larger tips.
- Hotels and Event Spaces: These can offer varying pay scales depending on clientele and event sizes.
The type of establishment greatly affects both base salary and tip earnings for Food Runners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Buffalo for Food Runners
If you are considering careers similar to Food Runner, here are a few related roles you might explore:
These include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Cook positions, which share some duties and skills related to Food Running.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Buffalo
Food Runners in Buffalo should be aware of applicable labor laws and tax responsibilities:
- For New York state-specific labor laws and resources, visit the New York State Department of Labor website.
- For federal labor laws and employment information, consult the U.S. Department of Labor website.