Food Runner Salary in Des Moines, IA
Food Runners in Des Moines, IA, in 2026, earn approximately $13.39 per hour, which translates to about $535.60 per week, $2,320.93 per month, and $27,851.20 per year.
The job market for Food Runners is growing moderately with an estimated 5% increase per year, indicating that demand for this position in Des Moines is on the rise and offers good prospects for employment growth.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Des Moines, IA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Des Moines depends on experience level among other factors. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by career stage.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.69 | $387.60 | $1,677.60 | $20,131.20 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.39 | $535.60 | $2,320.93 | $27,851.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.51 | $740.40 | $3,207.40 | $38,504.80 |
Do Food Runners in Des Moines Earn Tips?
Food Runners often do earn tips as part of their compensation, usually from pooling tips shared by serving staff or occasional direct gratuities. This can amount to an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the venue.
Food Runner Salary in Des Moines vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average hourly wage of $14.50, translating to about $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Des Moines earn slightly less at around $13.39 per hour and $27,851 per year. Local economic factors and demand influence this difference.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Moines for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer higher wages for Food Runners worth considering:
- Clive: $16.97 per hour
- Coralville: $16.11 per hour
Commuting to or finding work in these areas can provide better earning potential for Food Runners compared to Des Moines proper.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Des Moines?
Several factors can influence how much a Food Runner earns in Des Moines:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners are often rewarded with higher wages and more reliable shifts.
- Skills and Efficiency: Speed, accuracy, and positive customer interaction can raise earning potential, especially through better tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or busy venues may offer higher salaries and more tip opportunities than casual dining or fast food chains.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts often include shift differentials increasing hourly pay.
- Location: Suburban or nearby cities such as Clive offer higher wages compensating for commuting.
How To Become a Food Runner in Des Moines
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Des Moines involves several practical steps.
1. Gain Basic Food Service Experience: Working in entry-level roles within restaurants helps you understand service dynamics.
2. Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Certified Food Protection Manager boost employability.
3. Consider Culinary Training Programs: The Des Moines Area Community College Culinary Arts Program and Iowa Culinary Institute at DMACC provide solid culinary foundations enhancing career growth.
4. Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Friendly and efficient service helps in earning tips and advancing in the hospitality industry.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Des Moines
Many popular chains and local establishments hire Food Runners, including:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Des Moines Work At
Food Runners are most commonly employed in:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Typically offer stable shifts but lower base pay and fewer tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually provide better wages and tip potentials than fast food.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often pay higher hourly wages combined with increased tip income.
- Upscale Dining Establishments: These can offer premium wages and generous tipping opportunities but often require higher skill levels.
The type of establishment greatly influences a Food Runner's salary and earning potential through tips.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Moines for Food Runners
If you are exploring nearby roles similar to Food Runner, consider these options that involve related skills and responsibilities.
These include Backwaiter, Server, and Fry Cook, providing pathways for skill development and career advancement.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Des Moines
Food Runners should be familiar with state and federal labor laws to ensure proper work conditions and wages.
- Visit the official Iowa government website for comprehensive resources on labor laws, employment standards, and workplace rights.
- For federal labor law information including wage standards and workplace safety, check the U.S. Department of Labor's official site.