Food Runner Salary in Cambridge, MA
Food Runners in Cambridge, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $21.86 per hour, which translates to about $874.40 per week, $3,789.07 per month, and $45,468.80 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Cambridge is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding market for food service support roles in the bustling dining scene of this region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Cambridge, MA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Cambridge can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment, 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) | $15.47 | $618.80 | $2,680.67 | $32,168.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $21.86 | $874.40 | $3,789.07 | $45,468.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.88 | $1,235.20 | $5,338.13 | $64,182.40 |
Do Food Runners in Cambridge Earn Tips?
Food Runners often do receive tips, especially in restaurants where they directly assist servers and ensure timely delivery of food. On average, Food Runners in Cambridge can earn an extra $3 to $7 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Cambridge vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.50 per hour, which is about $38,480 per year.
When compared, Food Runners in Cambridge make slightly more than the national average, earning about $21.86 per hour or $45,468.80 annually.
This can be attributed to Cambridge’s higher living costs and competitive restaurant scene that demands efficient food service roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cambridge for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer slightly varied compensation for Food Runners:
- Brookline: $22.47 per hour
- Burlington: $22.16 per hour
Food Runners in Brookline earn marginally more than those in Burlington, with both towns offering competitive wages compared to Cambridge.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Cambridge?
Several key factors influence the salary of a Food Runner in Cambridge:
- Experience Level: Food Runners with more tenure and on-the-job experience tend to earn higher wages.
- Skills and Efficiency: Strong organizational skills and the ability to multitask can lead to better performance bonuses or raises.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale or busy restaurants generally offers better pay than casual or fast food venues.
- Location: Jobs in high-traffic dining areas or upscale neighborhoods often pay more due to demand and tips.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials or more tip opportunities.
How To Become a Food Runner in Cambridge
To launch a career as a Food Runner in Cambridge, consider these steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Training: Programs at the Cambridge School of Culinary Arts offer comprehensive culinary skills that can enhance performance as a Food Runner.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Courses: Boston University Metropolitan College Culinary Arts Program provides beneficial training for those wishing to advance in food service roles.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure a strong understanding of food safety practices.
- Consider Alcohol Service Training: The TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification provides responsible alcohol service knowledge beneficial for establishments serving alcohol.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Being personable and efficient can improve tip earnings and job security.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Cambridge
Some of the prominent organizations hiring Food Runners in Cambridge include:
- Sonesta
- Barcelona Wine Bar
- Aramark
Establishments That Food Runners in Cambridge Work At
Food Runners typically work at various types of food service establishments such as:
- Casual Restaurants: Often bustling environments with steady tip opportunities and a moderate wage.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Faster-paced but often have lower base pay; tips may be less common here.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These offer higher wages and generous tips due to upscale clientele.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Steadier hours and sometimes higher base salaries combined with tips.
The type of establishment greatly impacts salary, with fine dining locations generally offering the highest earning potential for Food Runners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cambridge for Food Runners
For those interested in similar roles within the hospitality industry, here are some careers related to Food Runner:
These include Barista, Busser, and Backwaiter roles, which involve similar food service skills and responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Cambridge
Food Runners should be aware of the labor laws and tax regulations applicable in Massachusetts to ensure fair treatment and compliance:
- You can find comprehensive details on labor standards at the Massachusetts government website.
- Federal labor laws and guidance are available at the U.S. Department of Labor's website.