Food Runner Salary in Colorado Springs, CO
Food Runners in Colorado Springs, CO, in 2025, earn approximately $17.35 per hour, which translates to about $694.00 per week, $3,007.33 per month, and $36,088.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Colorado Springs is growing steadily at about 5% per year, signaling an optimistic outlook for job opportunities in this role within the local foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Colorado Springs, CO?
The salary of a Food Runner in Colorado Springs varies based on experience and skill, but here is a clear breakdown of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.81 | $592.40 | $2,572.13 | $30,868.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.35 | $694.00 | $3,007.33 | $36,088.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $28.24 | $1,129.60 | $4,883.73 | $58,739.20 |
Do Food Runners in Colorado Springs Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do earn tips as part of their income. On average, they might expect to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the volume of customers and generosity of patrons within their establishment.
Food Runner Salary in Colorado Springs vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average hourly wage of around $18.45, which corresponds to approximately $38,376 annually.
In comparison, Food Runners in Colorado Springs earn slightly less than the national average with around $17.35 per hour and $36,088 annually. This difference can be influenced by regional living costs and local market conditions specific to Colorado Springs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Colorado Springs for Food Runners
Nearby areas provide slightly varied pay rates for Food Runners, including:
- Downtown: $18.50 per hour
- Northgate: $19.00 per hour
Food Runners seeking higher earnings may find opportunities in Northgate offering *the best pay* close to Colorado Springs.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Colorado Springs?
The salary for a Food Runner in Colorado Springs is impacted by several important factors:
- Experience and Efficiency: More experienced Food Runners often receive higher wages due to faster service and reliability.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays more compared to casual dining or fast-food venues.
- Shift Timing and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts can sometimes include shift differentials which boost pay.
- Skill Level: Skills such as multitasking, communication, and knowledge of the menu add value to the role.
- Tips: Locations that encourage tipping, often full-service restaurants, increase overall earnings for Food Runners.
How To Become a Food Runner in Colorado Springs
Starting a career as a Food Runner involves several key steps that prepare you for success in the role.
- Gain Basic Culinary or Food Service Knowledge: Programs such as the Pikes Peak Community College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive training to prepare students for various food service roles.
- Pursue Hands-On Experience: Consider hands-on learning through programs like Colorado Mountain College Culinary Institute which emphasize practical skills.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the nationally recognized ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure you understand food safety practices crucial for the position.
- Consider Alcohol Service Training: If working in establishments serving alcohol, holding a TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can be valuable.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Being friendly, communicative, and efficient has a direct impact on job performance and tips.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Colorado Springs
Several prominent employers in Colorado Springs are actively hiring Food Runners, including:
- Topgolf
- The Broadmoor Hotel
- Saltgrass Steakhouse
Establishments That Food Runners in Colorado Springs Work At
Food Runners commonly find employment in:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often hire food runners for efficient service during peak hours with moderate salary scales.
- Fast Casual: While pay may be lower than fine dining, fast casual spots provide regular work and tips.
- Upscale Restaurants and Hotels: The highest salaries and tip potentials tend to be available here, reflecting greater customer volume and expectations.
- Event Venues and Golf Clubs: Businesses like Topgolf or event spaces need Food Runners for large-scale service, often providing competitive wages.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Food Runner’s earnings, with those in fine dining or large venues often receiving better overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Colorado Springs for Food Runners
If you are considering careers related to Food Running, here are some similar hospitality roles worth exploring:
These related roles include Busser, Backwaiter, and Server, positions that share food service elements and customer interaction on varying levels.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Colorado Springs
Food Runners in Colorado Springs should be knowledgeable about labor laws and tax obligations to ensure fair working conditions and compliance.
- Information about Colorado's labor laws and employment regulations can be found on the Colorado.gov official website.
- For federal labor laws and workplace standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.