Food Runner Salary in Davenport, IA
Food Runners in Davenport, IA, in 2025, 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 job demand for Food Runners in Davenport is growing positively at about 5% per year, indicating an increasing need for these positions within the local hospitality and food service industries.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Davenport, IA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Davenport can vary by experience and employer, but below is a breakdown 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 | $2,440.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,947.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Davenport Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do earn tips. While the amount varies by restaurant, Food Runners in Davenport may earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, supplementing their base pay.
Food Runner Salary in Davenport vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn around $14.50 per hour, equating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Davenport earn slightly less with an hourly wage of $13.90 and an annual salary of $28,912. This difference can be influenced by regional living costs and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Davenport for Food Runners
Nearby areas offering higher salaries for Food Runners include:
- Downtown Davenport: $15.50 per hour
- East Village: $17.60 per hour
Working in nearby neighborhoods like East Village can offer Food Runners higher earning potential compared to the general Davenport area.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Davenport?
Several factors influence a Food Runner’s salary in Davenport:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners often command higher wages based on speed and efficiency.
- Skills: Strong customer service and multitasking abilities can lead to better-paying opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants tend to pay more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift Times: Working evening or weekend shifts may come with shift differentials or higher tips.
- Location: Establishments in higher-paying neighborhoods like East Village offer better compensation.
How To Become a Food Runner in Davenport
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Davenport involves several steps:
- Obtain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Consider courses like the Scott Community College Culinary Arts Program to gain foundational knowledge.
- Learn Customer Service: Training in hospitality, such as the Eastern Iowa Community Colleges Hospitality Management Program, can be beneficial.
- Earn Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification are often required.
- Gain Experience: Begin in entry-level food service positions to develop necessary skills.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Davenport
Some prominent employers looking for Food Runners in Davenport include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Davenport Work At
Food Runners commonly work at various food service establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These offer entry-level opportunities, but typically lower pay.
- Casual Dining: Provides more interaction with customers and usually better wage and tips.
- Fine Dining: Often offers the highest pay and tips, requiring more experience and professionalism.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the total earnings of a Food Runner in Davenport.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Davenport for Food Runners
If you are considering roles similar to Food Runner, here are some related positions:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Server—roles involving direct customer interaction and food service support.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Davenport
Food Runners should be familiar with applicable labor laws and taxation requirements to ensure fair work practices and compliance:
- Federal labor laws and regulations can be accessed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Iowa-specific labor regulations, visit the Iowa Division of Labor.
- The City of Davenport's official website provides local employment resources and regulations.