Food Runner Salary in Jackson, MS
Food Runners in Jackson, MS, in 2025, earn approximately $19.58 per hour, which translates to about $783.20 per week, $3,393.87 per month, and $40,726.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Jackson is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for food service support staff in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Jackson, MS?
The salary of a Food Runner in Jackson varies based on experience and employer, but here is a breakdown by level of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $18.21 | $728.40 | $3,142.40 | $37,780.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.58 | $783.20 | $3,393.87 | $40,726.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.93 | $877.20 | $3,799.73 | $45,542.40 |
Do Food Runners in Jackson Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn some tips as part of their compensation, depending on the establishment. They can earn an estimated extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips when working in busy and tip-friendly dining environments.
Food Runner Salary in Jackson vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which equates to about $30,160 annually.
Comparatively, Food Runners in Jackson make considerably higher wages, at approximately $19.58 per hour and $40,726.40 per year. This suggests a favorable pay rate in Jackson, possibly due to local demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jackson for Food Runners
If you consider nearby areas, the pay for Food Runners can differ slightly:
- Madison: $20.91 per hour
- Brandon: $19.81 per hour
Madison offers the highest pay among these neighboring areas, which might appeal to Food Runners willing to commute or relocate for better compensation.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Jackson?
Several factors contribute to the variation in Food Runner salaries in Jackson, including:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Food Runners usually earn higher wages due to improved speed, reliability, and knowledge of service flow.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants, hotels, or busy casual dining venues tends to offer better pay compared to fast food or small cafes.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts can sometimes come with premium pay or better tip opportunities.
- Additional Responsibilities: Food Runners who take on duties like assisting servers or managing food delivery stations may qualify for higher salaries.
How To Become a Food Runner in Jackson
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Jackson can be straightforward but also benefits from some training and certifications.
- Consider Culinary Arts Programs: For foundational hospitality knowledge, programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Hinds Community College provide comprehensive training.
- Gain Hospitality Knowledge: The Hospitality and Tourism Management program at Jackson State University offers useful education on restaurant operations and customer service skills.
- Achieve Food Safety Certifications: Obtaining certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with food safety regulations and improves employability.
- Obtain State-Required Licenses: In Mississippi, the Mississippi Alcohol Server Certification is necessary if job duties include serving alcoholic beverages responsibly.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Starting in entry-level food service roles allows you to learn necessary skills and progress in the industry.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Jackson
Several prominent employers in Jackson are frequently hiring Food Runners, offering opportunities in varying restaurant styles.
- Chili's
- Sonic Drive-In
- MMI Hospitality Group
Establishments That Food Runners in Jackson Work At
Food Runners typically find employment in a range of establishments such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Often busy and fast paced, these restaurants provide steady work and often include tip opportunities.
- Fast Casual Venues: These establishments emphasize quick service with a slightly elevated dining experience, typically offering competitive wages.
- Hotels and Catering Services: Working in hotels or for event caterers might offer higher pay and additional benefits.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: While less common, Food Runners in fine dining may earn more due to the upscale environment and higher customer expectations.
The type of establishment influences both base salary and tip income, so selecting the right work environment can noticeably affect earnings.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jackson for Food Runners
If you are exploring similar career paths to Food Runner, several related roles exist in the hospitality industry worth considering.
These include Busser, Backwaiter, and Server positions — all roles that involve assisting customer service and working closely with restaurant staff.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Jackson
Understanding applicable labor laws and tax responsibilities is important for Food Runners in Jackson to protect their rights and manage earnings.
- Visit the Federal Department of Labor website for comprehensive information on labor laws and worker rights.
- The Mississippi Department of Employment Security provides state-specific guidance on employment regulations.
- For local employment resources, the official City of Jackson website is a valuable source.