Food Runner Salary in Columbia, SC
Food Runners in Columbia, SC, in 2025, earn approximately $13.31 per hour, which translates to about $532.40 per week, $2,307.07 per month, and $27,684.80 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Columbia is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career growth in the hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Columbia, SC?
The salary of a Food Runner in Columbia varies depending on experience and employer, but the following table provides a general estimate across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.85 | $394.00 | $1,707.33 | $20,488.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.31 | $532.40 | $2,307.07 | $27,684.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.98 | $719.20 | $3,107.47 | $37,398.40 |
Do Food Runners in Columbia, SC Earn Tips?
Food Runners often receive tips, which can significantly boost their income. Depending on the venue and customer volume, a Food Runner might earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, adding meaningful supplemental income to their base wage.
Food Runner Salary in Columbia, SC vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of approximately $18.49 per hour, which equates to about $38,459.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Columbia ($13.31 hourly and $27,684.80 yearly) earn less, reflecting regional differences in living costs and hospitality demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Columbia, SC for Food Runners
Some of the nearby areas with higher pay rates for Food Runners include:
- Five Points: $15.00 per hour
- Forest Acres: $14.50 per hour
Workers willing to commute to these neighborhoods might find better compensation compared to Columbia proper.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Columbia, SC?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Food Runner in Columbia:
- Experience and Efficiency: More experienced Food Runners who work quickly and reliably tend to earn higher wages or better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and fine dining establishments generally offer higher wages and gratuities than casual or fast-food places.
- Shift Timing: Working during busy dinner hours or weekends can increase tip earnings.
- Location: Being employed in high-demand or affluent areas nearby may result in better pay, as seen in places like Five Points.
- Skill Set: Additional skills such as customer service, knowledge of menu items, or multitasking can improve a Food Runner's earning potential.
How To Become a Food Runner in Columbia, SC
To start and grow a career as a Food Runner in Columbia, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Look into culinary education programs such as the Midlands Technical College Culinary Arts Program which provides foundational training for food service roles.
- Acquire Hospitality Skills: The University of South Carolina Hospitality Management Program offers education that covers food service operations valuable for Food Runners.
- Obtain Food Safety Certification: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required and demonstrate knowledge of food safety practices.
- Consider Additional Certifications: If working in establishments serving alcohol, the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can be beneficial.
- Develop Soft Skills: Excellent communication and customer service skills enhance chances of employment and better earnings.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Columbia, SC
Some prominent local employers frequently hiring Food Runners include:
- Forest Lake Club
- Tiffany's Bakery
- Poogan's Hospitality Group
Establishments That Food Runners in Columbia, SC Work At
Food Runners find employment in diverse types of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay but usually steady hours with good tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Generally lower wages and fewer tips, but higher volume of customers.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Highest earning potential due to better wages and generous tips.
- Event Venues and Catering Services: Variable pay depending on specific event needs but may offer more flexibility.
The salary of a Food Runner can vary significantly depending on the venue type and clientele, with fine dining establishments offering the best overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Columbia, SC for Food Runners
If you are interested in careers related to Food Running, consider exploring these similar roles:
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Fry Cook positions, which involve related hospitality skills and often provide similar earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Columbia, SC
Food Runners should familiarize themselves with applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure proper working conditions and compliance.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards, visit the Department of Labor website.
- For South Carolina-specific regulations, the South Carolina Department of Labor, Licensing and Regulation provides detailed information.