Food Runner Salary in Concord, CA
Food Runners in Concord, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Concord is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive employment outlook for this role in the food service industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Concord, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Concord varies based on experience level and employer type. Below is a breakdown across different experience tiers.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.50 | $620.00 | $2,686.67 | $32,240.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $19.89 | $795.60 | $3,430.00 | $41,352.80 |
Do Food Runners in Concord Earn Tips?
Food Runners occasionally receive tips, depending on the restaurant's tipping policy and customer generosity. Tips can amount to an estimated $2 to $5 per hour, supplementing their base wage, although this varies widely by establishment.
Food Runner Salary in Concord vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn on average about $19.13 per hour, translating to an annual pay of approximately $39,790.40.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Concord earn a bit less hourly at $16.50 per hour and about $34,320 annually. This difference may relate to regional cost of living and local restaurant market conditions.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Concord for Food Runners
Nearby areas to Concord offer slightly higher pay rates for Food Runners:
- Downtown Concord: $17.50 per hour
- Todos Santos Plaza: $18.00 per hour
Food Runners willing to work or commute to these locations might find better hourly wages and opportunities.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Concord?
Several key factors influence how much a Food Runner earns in Concord, CA:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners generally command higher wages.
- Skills and Speed: Ability to efficiently manage multiple orders and maintain pace can lead to better tips and pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining venues often pay more or offer higher tipping potential than casual or fast food restaurants.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with premiums or higher tips.
- Local Demand: Concord's growing hospitality sector supports increased demand for Food Runners.
How To Become a Food Runner in Concord
Getting started as a Food Runner in Concord involves a few practical steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Programs like the Diablo Valley College Culinary Arts Program provide foundational skills useful for this entry-level role.
- Understand Hospitality Management: Courses like the Contra Costa College Hospitality Management Program offer insights into restaurant operations that can help career growth.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Holding a California Food Handler Card is mandatory for all food service employees in the state.
- Consider ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized food safety training can improve your qualifications.
- Build Physical Stamina and Customer Service Skills: Being fast and friendly are key success factors.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Concord
Some of the leading employers actively hiring Food Runners in Concord include:
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Yard House
- Fuji Sushi Buffet
Establishments That Food Runners in Concord Work At
Food Runners find opportunities across various establishment types, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often hire Food Runners to maintain swift table service; wages here are moderate with potential for tips.
- Fast Casual Locations: Salaries may be lower but tend to offer more consistent scheduling.
- Buffets and Ethnic Restaurants: Establishments like sushi buffets often require Food Runners and might pay competitive wages due to volume of service.
- Fine Dining: The highest pay and tip potential can be found in upscale restaurants.
The level and type of establishment substantially impact a Food Runner’s pay and career advancement opportunities.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Concord for Food Runners
If you're considering careers related to Food Runner, here are some options that involve similar responsibilities or career pathways:
These include Busser, Backwaiter, and Dishwasher roles, which are closely related in food service environments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Concord
Food Runners in Concord need to understand various labor laws and tax requirements that affect their jobs:
- California Department of Industrial Relations (state labor laws) provides guidance on wage requirements, working hours, and employee protections.
- Internal Revenue Service (federal tax information) offers resources related to tax obligations and filing for employees.
- City of Concord official website (local regulations and resources) is a valuable point for local employment resources and updates.