Food Runner Salary in Fairfield, CA
Food Runners in Fairfield, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.00 per hour, which translates to about $720.00 per week, $3,120.00 per month, and $37,440.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Fairfield is growing at about 10% per year, indicating a strong market expansion and increasing job opportunities in the food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Fairfield, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Fairfield varies based on experience and establishing employer. Here is a breakdown by experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.00 | $720.00 | $3,120.00 | $37,440.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.84 | $833.60 | $3,600.53 | $43,347.20 |
Do Food Runners in Fairfield Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn little to no tips directly as their role focuses on delivering food efficiently rather than customer service. However, in some establishments, they may receive a portion of shared tips, possibly amounting to an additional $5 to $10 per shift.
Food Runner Salary in Fairfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $18.49 per hour, which translates to roughly $38,459.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Fairfield earn slightly less at $18.00 per hour and $37,440 annually. This difference may reflect local economic conditions and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fairfield for Food Runners
Nearby areas also offer competitive salaries for Food Runners:
- Downtown Fairfield: $19.50 per hour
- Cordelia: $18.50 per hour
Food Runners working in Downtown Fairfield benefit from the highest nearby pay rates, likely due to increased restaurant density and customer volume.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Fairfield?
Several factors impact how much a Food Runner can earn in Fairfield:
- Experience and Efficiency: Experienced Food Runners who can manage their tasks quickly and accurately often command higher wages.
- Skills and Physical Stamina: Good multitasking, communication, and endurance contribute to better job performance and potential raises.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or busy venues tend to pay more than casual dining spots or fast-food outlets.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts can sometimes offer premium pay rates due to higher demand.
- Location: Salaries can vary notably between neighborhoods, with busier downtown areas typically offering higher pay.
How To Become a Food Runner in Fairfield
To pursue a career as a Food Runner in Fairfield, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Familiarize yourself with food safety and handling, which is essential for any food service job.
- Obtain Required Certifications: Acquiring a California Food Handler Card is mandatory. Many employers also prefer candidates with ServSafe Certification for food safety compliance.
- Enroll in Culinary or Hospitality Programs: Programs like the Solano Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Napa Valley Cooking School can provide valuable knowledge and skills.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Food Runners often work closely with servers and kitchen staff, so communication skills are important.
- Gain Relevant Experience: Entry-level positions in food service or volunteering can help build your resume.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Fairfield
Some of the leading employers looking for Food Runners in Fairfield include:
- Red Lobster
- Lucky Strike Entertainment
- FAIRMONT
Establishments That Food Runners in Fairfield Work At
Food Runners commonly find jobs in various types of food service establishments:
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These typically offer steady hours but moderate pay.
- Casual Dining: Often provide competitive wages and opportunities for tips or bonuses.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: Higher pay and tip potential, but also greater expectations for professionalism and speed.
- Entertainment Venues: Such as bowling alleys, amusement centers, or event spaces, these offer dynamic work environments and sometimes higher hourly wages.
The type of establishment heavily influences the earning potential and work environment for Food Runners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fairfield for Food Runners
If you're exploring similar career paths within hospitality and food service, here are some related roles to consider:
These jobs include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Prep Cook positions, which share similarities in the food service environment and progression paths.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Fairfield
Food Runners in Fairfield should be aware of important labor laws and tax obligations, both at the state and federal levels.
- California labor laws and regulations are accessible through the California Department of Industrial Relations.
- For employment development services and wage information, visit the California Employment Development Department.
- Federal labor laws covering minimum wage, overtime, and related topics can be found on the U.S. Department of Labor website.