Food Runner Salary in Franklin, TN
Food Runners in Franklin, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $14.37 per hour, which translates to about $574.80 per week, $2,490.80 per month, and $29,889.60 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Franklin is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Franklin, TN?
The salary of a Food Runner in Franklin varies by experience level and the specific establishment. Below is an overview of typical earnings from entry level to top earners.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.67 | $386.80 | $1,674.93 | $20,098.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.37 | $574.80 | $2,490.80 | $29,889.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.35 | $854.00 | $3,671.33 | $44,408.00 |
Do Food Runners in Franklin Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do earn tips in addition to their base pay. They can earn approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer traffic, which can significantly boost overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Franklin vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $15.04 per hour, which equates to approximately $31,283.20 per year.
Compared to this, Food Runners in Franklin earn slightly less at $14.37 per hour and $29,889.60 annually. This modest difference reflects regional cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Franklin for Food Runners
Nearby regions offer varying salary levels for Food Runners:
- Cool Springs: $15.50 per hour
- Downtown Franklin: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in Downtown Franklin enjoy some of the highest pay rates near the city, which may be due to the area's vibrant dining scene.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Franklin?
Several factors affect the salary of a Food Runner in Franklin:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners who are efficient and have strong customer service skills tend to earn more.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants or busy venues often pay higher wages than casual dining or smaller eateries.
- Work Schedule: Working during peak hours or weekends can result in higher tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Skills and Certifications: Additional skills such as assisting servers or knowledge of food safety can improve earning potential.
- Local Market Demand: Areas with a higher volume of restaurants and tourist traffic usually offer better pay.
How To Become a Food Runner in Franklin
To become a Food Runner in Franklin, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Basic Food Service Training: Courses like the Culinary Arts Program at Nashville State Community College provide foundational skills in food handling and kitchen operations.
- Earn Food Safety Certification: Acquiring a ServSafe Food Handler Certification is valuable for understanding health protocols.
- Gain Experience: Entry-level positions that involve food delivery or assisting servers can lead to Food Runner roles.
- Develop Strong Customer Service Skills: Friendly and efficient service improves tips and job prospects.
- Understand Hospitality Operations: Programs such as the Hospitality Management Program at Middle Tennessee State University can broaden knowledge of restaurant workflow and management.
- Obtain Necessary Permits: If involved in serving alcoholic beverages, a Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission Server Permit is required.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Franklin
Some of the prominent employers seeking Food Runners in Franklin include:
- The Rutledge
- P.F. Chang's
- The Cheesecake Factory
Establishments That Food Runners in Franklin Work At
Food Runners typically find employment in various types of dining establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often busiest spots with steady customer flow; pay and tips can vary.
- Fast Casual Eateries: High volume but quicker service pace; salaries may be moderate but steady.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: Offer the highest pay and tips due to upscale clientele and service expectations.
- Hotels and Event Venues: May provide consistent work and benefits with varying pay scales.
Where a Food Runner works significantly impacts their salary and tip income, with fine dining generally paying the most.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Franklin for Food Runners
Those interested in a career similar to Food Runner might consider these related roles:
This includes related positions like Server, Backwaiter, and Fry Cook, each offering different responsibilities and earning potentials.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Franklin
Food Runners in Franklin should be aware of local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair employment and compliance.
- Visit the official Tennessee government website for detailed state labor laws, minimum wage information, and employment standards.
- The U.S. Department of Labor offers comprehensive federal labor law resources and workplace regulations important for all employees.