Food Runner Salary in Chico, CA
Food Runners in Chico, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Chico is growing moderately at about 5% per year, indicating a steady increase in job opportunities and a healthy market for hospitality support roles in the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Chico, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Chico varies depending on experience and employer, but the following breakdown provides an overview of hourly and yearly earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Chico Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do not earn tips as they primarily support the flow of food service behind the scenes rather than directly serving customers. Their earnings generally come from their salary or hourly wages alone.
Food Runner Salary in Chico vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160.00 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Chico earn slightly less, with an average of about $13.90 per hour and $28,912.00 annually. This difference may reflect local economic factors and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Chico for Food Runners
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Food Runners include:
- Downtown Chico: $15.50 per hour
- South Chico: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in these neighborhoods may benefit from enhanced wages compared to the broader Chico area.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Chico?
Several factors influence a Food Runner's salary in Chico, including:
- Experience and Efficiency: Food Runners with proven speed and reliability tend to secure higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in high-end restaurants or busy venues often offers better pay compared to casual or fast-food restaurants.
- Skills and Additional Roles: Additional responsibilities like assisting servers can positively impact earnings.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts may provide higher hourly rates.
- Local Economic Conditions: Cost of living and demand within Chico affect overall salary levels.
How To Become a Food Runner in Chico
To start a career as a Food Runner in Chico, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Programs like the Butte College Culinary Arts Program can provide foundational hospitality skills.
- Pursue Hospitality Education: The Chico State University Hospitality Management Program offers broader industry insights valuable for career growth.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Holding a California Food Handler Card is mandatory and enhances employment prospects.
- Consider the ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized credential highlights food safety expertise to employers.
- Develop Communication and Teamwork Skills: Success as a Food Runner often depends on smooth collaboration with kitchen and serving staff.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Chico
Some of the leading employers currently seeking Food Runners in the Chico area include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Chico Work At
Food Runners typically find opportunities in various food service environments such as:
- Fast Food Chains: These often offer consistent hours but typically pay at the lower end of the salary range.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay and potential for tips depending on the establishment's service style.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Venues: These places may pay higher wages and sometimes include tip pooling among support staff.
- Banquets and Event Venues: Food Runners at events might see varying wages and sometimes receive additional gratuities.
The type of establishment significantly influences earnings, with higher-end locations usually providing better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Chico for Food Runners
If you're exploring careers related to Food Running, consider the following positions which share similar environments and skill sets:
These roles include Busser, Fry Cook, and Fast Food Worker, each with unique responsibilities but often overlapping with the daily experiences of a Food Runner.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Chico
Food Runners in Chico should stay informed about labor laws and tax regulations that affect their work and earnings.
- California's state labor laws are detailed at the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- Federal tax information can be found through the Internal Revenue Service.
- Local regulations and resources are available on the Butte County official website.