Food Runner Salary in Collingswood, NJ
Food Runners in Collingswood, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $18.16 per hour, which translates to about $726.40 per week, $3,147.73 per month, and $37,772.80 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Collingswood is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in this food service role in the region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Collingswood, NJ?
The salary of a Food Runner in Collingswood can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here's a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.53 | $581.20 | $2,513.47 | $30,146.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.16 | $726.40 | $3,147.73 | $37,772.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.65 | $1,466.00 | $6,324.67 | $75,992.00 |
Do Food Runners in Collingswood Earn Tips?
Food Runners often work in direct service environments where tips are common. In Collingswood, Food Runners can expect to earn approximately an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. This can significantly increase overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Collingswood vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.16 per hour, translating to about $37,772.80 per year.
Food Runners in Collingswood earn at the national average hourly rate and annual salary, reflecting a market consistent with broader U.S. trends for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Collingswood for Food Runners
Looking at nearby areas, Food Runner salaries can differ:
- Newark: $38.91 per hour
- Jersey City: $25.69 per hour
Food Runners commuting to Newark may see substantially higher pay, likely due to larger city demand and higher cost of living, while Jersey City also offers elevated wages compared to Collingswood.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Collingswood?
The salary of a Food Runner in Collingswood is influenced by several important factors:
- Experience and Skills: More experienced Food Runners with knowledge of fast-paced restaurant environments or exceptional customer service skills tend to command higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or busy urban locations typically pay more than casual dining or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend hours can sometimes yield higher pay or more tips due to increased customer volume.
- Certification and Training: Holding certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification may boost employability and salary potential.
- Local Economic Conditions: Market demand and cost of living in Collingswood and nearby areas affect salary levels.
How To Become a Food Runner in Collingswood
To pursue a career as a Food Runner in Collingswood, here are some key steps to consider:
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Many Food Runners start with entry-level positions in restaurants or catering services to develop practical skills.
- Complete Relevant Training Programs: Taking culinary or hospitality courses from local institutions such as Camden County College Culinary Arts Program or Rowan College at Burlington County Hospitality and Tourism Management can provide foundational knowledge.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: The ServSafe Food Handler Certification is widely recognized and often required, ensuring proper food safety knowledge.
- Consider Additional Certifications: Programs like the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can be beneficial if working in establishments serving alcohol.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Collingswood
Popular employers in Collingswood seeking Food Runners include:
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Seasons 52
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Food Runners in Collingswood Work At
Food Runners in Collingswood are typically employed in a variety of food service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These provide steady work hours, and the salaries are usually at the standard market rate.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These establishments often see high customer turnover, which can lead to increased tips and sometimes higher wages.
- Fine Dining: Food Runners working in fine dining settings often earn more due to the upscale nature of the service and potential for higher tips.
- Hotels and Catering Services: May offer consistent work and sometimes benefits, which can add to compensation beyond base salary.
The type of establishment directly impacts the salary and tip potential for Food Runners, with upscale and busy venues offering better income opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Collingswood for Food Runners
If you're exploring similar roles within the hospitality industry, consider these related positions that share skills and work environments with Food Runners.
These roles include Backwaiter, Server, and Fry Cook positions, each offering different responsibilities but within the food service and hospitality domain.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Collingswood
Food Runners should stay informed about labor laws and tax responsibilities that affect their work conditions and earnings.
- Visit the Federal website for labor laws and regulations to understand your rights and obligations under federal law.
- For state-specific guidance, the New Jersey state website for labor laws and employment information provides detailed resources relevant to Food Runners in Collingswood.