Food Runner Salary in Gilbert, AZ
Food Runners in Gilbert, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $15.98 per hour, which translates to about $639.20 per week, $2,769.87 per month, and $33,238.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Gilbert is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating an expanding market and increasing job opportunities in the food service industry for this role.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Gilbert, AZ?
The salary of a Food Runner in Gilbert can vary depending on experience and employer, but here is an overview across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $13.67 | $546.80 | $2,362.93 | $28,354.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.98 | $639.20 | $2,769.87 | $33,238.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.69 | $747.60 | $3,239.60 | $38,875.20 |
Do Food Runners in Gilbert Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn tips as part of their compensation. In Gilbert, they can earn approximately an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume.
Food Runner Salary in Gilbert vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $18.49 per hour, translating to roughly $38,459.20 per year.
When compared to the national average, Food Runners in Gilbert earn slightly less, at around $15.98 per hour and $33,238.40 annually.
This difference may reflect local cost of living and market demand variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Gilbert for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer slightly different salary rates for Food Runners:
- Phoenix: $20.92 per hour
- Chandler: $19.33 per hour
Food Runners seeking higher pay might consider opportunities in Phoenix or Chandler, where salaries tend to be higher.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Gilbert?
The salary of a Food Runner in Gilbert can be influenced by several important factors:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners can command better wages by demonstrating efficiency and customer service skills.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or busy fast-casual venues often pay higher than smaller or casual dining places.
- Shift Timing: Working evening or weekend shifts might offer shift differentials and increased earning potential.
- Geographic Location: Salaries vary between cities and even neighborhoods, reflecting demand and cost of living.
- Skills and Reliability: Strong communication and multitasking skills may lead to raises or promotions.
How To Become a Food Runner in Gilbert
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Gilbert involves some valuable steps to improve your chances and salary:
- Complete Relevant Training Programs: Enroll in culinary or hospitality courses such as the Culinary Arts Program at Mesa Community College, which offers strong foundational training in food preparation and kitchen management.
- Consider Hospitality Education: Programs like the Hospitality Management Program at Arizona State University provide broader education on restaurant operations and customer service, helpful for career advancement.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certification like the Food Handler's Card, which is mandatory in Arizona, helps demonstrate knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Earn ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized program prepares Food Runners with food safety and sanitation standards, making them more competitive.
- Gain On-The-Job Experience: Many start in entry-level roles or as helpers to experienced Food Runners to build skills and get hired.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Gilbert
Gilbert’s food service industry features several employers frequently hiring Food Runners:
- DoorDash
- Joe's Farm Grill
- Topgolf
Establishments That Food Runners in Gilbert Work At
Food Runners in Gilbert commonly work in a variety of establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These usually offer consistent shifts but moderate pay scales.
- Fast-Casual Venues: Often quicker paced with opportunities for tips and slightly higher hourly wages.
- Upscale Restaurants: Tend to pay higher wages and often provide better tips due to higher customer spend.
- Event Venues and Sports Facilities: Seasonal and event-based work, often with variable income but good for gaining experience.
The type of establishment greatly impacts earnings, with upscale and event-based venues typically offering the best compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Gilbert for Food Runners
If you are exploring roles similar to Food Runner in the hospitality industry, here are a few to consider:
These include Bartender, Busser, and Cashier positions, which share similar customer-facing and operational responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Gilbert
Food Runners in Gilbert should be aware of both federal and state labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and understanding of their rights and obligations.
- For federal labor standards and employment regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- Arizona-specific labor laws and employment services can be found on the Arizona Department of Economic Security site.