Food Runner Salary in Des Plaines, IL
Food Runners in Des Plaines, IL, 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 demand for Food Runners in Des Plaines is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Des Plaines, IL?
The salary of a Food Runner in Des Plaines can vary depending on experience, but here is a look at earnings across different experience levels.
| 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Des Plaines Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do not earn tips directly as they mainly assist with delivering food to tables and support servers. However, some establishments might share tip pools where Food Runners can receive a portion of the tips, but this varies greatly by employer.
Food Runner Salary in Des Plaines vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $14.50 per hour and about $30,160 per year.
Compared to this national average, Food Runners in Des Plaines earn slightly less at about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually.
This variance is influenced by the local cost of living and the specific food service market conditions in Des Plaines.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Des Plaines for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Food Runners, including:
- Downtown Des Plaines: $15.50 per hour
- Metropolitan Square: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in Metropolitan Square enjoy the highest hourly wages among surrounding locations, reflecting the demand and possibly the upscale nature of some establishments there.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Des Plaines?
Several factors can impact how much a Food Runner earns in Des Plaines:
- Experience: More seasoned Food Runners often command higher wages due to efficiency and familiarity with restaurant operations.
- Skills: Fast, accurate delivery and good communication skills can lead to better opportunities and pay.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants generally pay more than casual or fast-food places.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts might offer shift differentials.
- Local Economic Factors: The cost of living and demand for restaurant service affects overall wages.
How To Become a Food Runner in Des Plaines
If you want to become a Food Runner in Des Plaines, consider the following steps:
- Obtain a Food Handler Certification: Required by Illinois for all food service workers to ensure safety standards are met.
- Consider Serving Safety Training like ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized certification educates on proper food handling.
- Gain Experience: Working in entry-level food service roles can help you build the skills needed.
- Enrol in Hospitality or Culinary Programs: Institutions such as Oakton Community College Culinary Arts Program and Triton College Hospitality Industry Administration provide helpful industry knowledge.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Des Plaines
Several well-known employers in Des Plaines frequently hire Food Runners:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Des Plaines Work At
Food Runners typically find work in a range of establishments, including:
- Fast Food Chains: Higher volume of orders but usually lower pay.
- Casual Dining: More interaction with servers and sometimes higher hourly rates.
- Fine Dining: Typically pays better and may include tip sharing.
The kind of establishment greatly influences hourly wages and potential tips, with casual and fine dining venues generally offering better pay than fast food settings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Des Plaines for Food Runners
If you're considering similar roles to Food Runner, here are some related careers in the hospitality industry:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Fast Food Worker, roles that share similar responsibilities or environments with Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Des Plaines
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is essential for Food Runners in Des Plaines:
- You can review federal labor laws at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific employment information is available through the Illinois Department of Employment Security.
- Local regulations and resources can be accessed on the City of Des Plaines official website.