Food Runner Salary in Fontana, CA
Food Runners in Fontana, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.83 per hour, which translates to about $633.20 per week, $2,743.87 per month, and $32,926.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Fontana is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for job opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Fontana, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Fontana varies with experience and employer, but here is a breakdown across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.53 | $621.20 | $2,686.13 | $32,254.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.83 | $633.20 | $2,743.87 | $32,926.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.14 | $645.60 | $2,801.60 | $33,571.20 |
Do Food Runners in Fontana Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do not earn tips, as their role mainly involves supporting servers and kitchen staff rather than direct customer service. Their earnings generally come solely from their hourly wages and salary.
Food Runner Salary in Fontana vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $19.13 per hour or roughly $39,790.40 per year.
Compared to these national averages, Food Runners in Fontana earn less, at approximately $15.83 per hour and $32,926.40 per year, reflecting local market and cost-of-living differences.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Fontana for Food Runners
Nearby Fontana areas offering slightly higher pay for Food Runners include:
- Downtown Fontana: $16.50 per hour
- North Fontana: $17.00 per hour
These areas provide better compensation prospects, possibly reflecting higher demand or more upscale dining establishments.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Fontana?
Multiple factors impact how much a Food Runner can expect to earn in Fontana:
- Experience and Skill Set: More experienced Food Runners with efficient service skills or multitasking abilities may earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and high-volume venues tend to offer better pay compared to fast casual or smaller dining spots.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts might come with premium pay due to higher demand.
- Local Economy and Demand: A strong local food and hospitality market can drive better salaries.
- Certifications and Food Handling Compliance: Holding certifications such as the California Food Handler Card may improve employability and wage negotiations.
How To Become a Food Runner in Fontana
To launch a career as a Food Runner in Fontana, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Mandatory Food Safety Certifications: Acquiring a California Food Handler Card is required to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
- Consider ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized certification is valued by employers and can provide a competitive edge.
- Enroll in Relevant Local Programs: Programs like the San Bernardino Valley College Culinary Arts Program offer comprehensive food service training, while the Chaffey College Hospitality Management Program provides education on restaurant operations and management.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level positions or internships in restaurants help build skills and familiarity with food service tasks.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Strong communication and teamwork abilities can improve performance and advancement potential.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Fontana
Leading employers in the area looking for Food Runners include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Fontana Work At
Food Runners typically find employment in a variety of food service environments, including:
- Fast Food Chains: Often pay hourly wages with predictable schedules but lower overall pay.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: May provide slightly higher wages and opportunities to develop customer service skills.
- Upscale or Fine Dining Venues: Typically offer the highest compensation and a professional environment, but may require more refined skills and experience.
- Event Venues and Catering Services: Temporary or seasonal work with varied schedules can impact earnings.
The type of establishment strongly influences the overall salary and potential for advancement in the role.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Fontana for Food Runners
If you're exploring similar career paths to Food Runner, several related roles exist in the hospitality industry.
These include the roles of Backwaiter, Busser, and Bartender, which have overlapping responsibilities and pathways within the food service sector.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Fontana
Food Runners should be informed about labor laws and tax requirements at both the state and federal level to ensure proper employment practices and compliance.
- Visit the California Department of Industrial Relations for information on state labor laws and regulations.
- The California Employment Development Department provides resources related to employment services and tax obligations.
- Federal labor regulations and resources are available through the U.S. Department of Labor.