Food Runner Salary in Cary, NC
Food Runners in Cary, NC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.35 per hour, which translates to about $534.00 per week, $2,314.00 per month, and $27,768.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Cary is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook with increasing opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Cary, NC?
The salary of a Food Runner in Cary can vary depending on experience and employer size, but the following breakdown gives an overview of earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.01 | $440.40 | $1,902.40 | $22,060.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.05 | $642.00 | $2,776.50 | $33,384.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.38 | $935.20 | $4,048.53 | $48,582.40 |
Do Food Runners in Cary Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do not earn tips directly like servers or bartenders since their role focuses on food delivery and communication between kitchen and dining area. However, in some establishments, they may receive occasional tips or shared gratuities, but this is not guaranteed or a primary part of their income.
Food Runner Salary in Cary vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of approximately $14.62 per hour, equating to about $30,409.60 per year.
Compared to this, Food Runners in Cary earn slightly less at $13.35 per hour and $27,768.00 annually. This difference can reflect regional cost of living variations and local market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Cary for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer different pay scales for Food Runners:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Preston: $17.60 per hour
Those willing to commute or work in Preston may find better pay rates, while Downtown positions offer competitive opportunities close to Cary's city center.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Cary?
Several factors influence how much a Food Runner can earn in Cary:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Food Runners who efficiently manage orders and communication often command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy hotel kitchens typically offer better pay than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift and Hours: Working peak dining hours or overnight shifts can include shift differentials increasing earning potential.
- Geographic Location: Establishments in higher-paying neighborhoods like Preston tend to offer better salaries.
- Additional Skills: Multitasking, customer service, and teamwork skills enhance value to employers.
How To Become a Food Runner in Cary
To pursue a career as a Food Runner in Cary, consider these key steps:
- Gain basic culinary knowledge through programs at Wake Technical Community College Culinary Arts Program, which provides training in foundational food skills relevant for Food Runners.
- Hospitality education such as the Durham Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program can enhance understanding of service operations.
- Obtain food safety certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Develop on-the-job experience in entry-level roles such as busser or host to learn the dynamics of food service environments.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Cary
Major employers that frequently hire Food Runners in Cary include popular chains and local dining spots, such as:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Cary Work At
Food Runners often find opportunities across varied establishment types, including:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Provide entry-level positions with consistent schedules but generally lower wages.
- Casual Dining: Often pay moderately better and may include opportunities for tips or bonuses.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Establishments: Tend to offer the highest wages and sometimes partial tip sharing due to higher service standards.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger venues often pay more and provide additional benefits.
The type of establishment significantly impacts salary, with higher-end venues rewarding Food Runners for professionalism and speed.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Cary for Food Runners
If you are interested in similar roles within hospitality, consider positions closely related to Food Runner, such as:
This includes Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Busser positions, which involve food service support duties and offer pathways for career progression.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Cary
Food Runners should familiarize themselves with relevant labor laws and taxation guidelines:
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive federal employment regulations.
- North Carolina's state policies are available at the official NC government website, including wage standards and labor rights.
- The Town of Cary official website provides local government resources and labor information relevant to residents.