Food Runner Salary in Jersey City, NJ
Food Runners in Jersey City, NJ, in 2025, earn approximately $25.69 per hour, which translates to about $1,027.60 per week, $4,452.93 per month, and $53,435.20 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Jersey City is growing steadily at about 5% per year, showing positive job growth prospects for this position in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Jersey City, NJ?
The salary of a Food Runner in Jersey City varies depending on experience, skills, and the type of establishment. Below is a breakdown of average earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.53 | $581.20 | $2,513.33 | $30,146.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.34 | $813.60 | $3,508.40 | $42,307.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $25.38 | $1,015.20 | $4,390.40 | $52,790.40 |
Do Food Runners in Jersey City Earn Tips?
Yes, Food Runners in Jersey City often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. They can earn approximately an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment's volume and tipping practices, which can significantly supplement their overall income.
Food Runner Salary in Jersey City vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.16 per hour, translating to about $37,772.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Jersey City earn a higher hourly wage of $25.69 and $53,435.20 annually, reflecting the region's higher cost of living and demand for hospitality workers.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Jersey City for Food Runners
If you're considering nearby areas to work as a Food Runner, the pay rates vary as follows:
- Newark: $38.91 per hour
- Keyport: $20.62 per hour
Newark offers a significantly higher hourly wage that could be attractive for Food Runners willing to commute.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Jersey City?
Several factors can influence how much a Food Runner earns in Jersey City:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Food Runners with knowledge of restaurant operations and excellent customer service skills tend to earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Workplaces such as upscale restaurants or hotels often pay more than casual dining or fast food locations.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with higher pay or tips.
- Geographical Location: Proximity to busy urban centers like Newark or New York City can impact wages due to demand and cost of living.
- Additional Responsibilities: Food Runners who also assist with other duties such as bussing or hosting may receive increased compensation.
How To Become a Food Runner in Jersey City
To start a career as a Food Runner in Jersey City, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Understanding of food safety and customer service is essential.
- Complete Relevant Training Programs: Programs such as the Hudson County Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Jersey City Culinary Arts Institute provide comprehensive culinary and service training to improve job prospects.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification can improve employability and demonstrate knowledge of food safety and responsible alcohol service.
- Develop Strong Communication Skills: Since Food Runners interact with staff and guests, clear communication is vital.
- Apply for Entry-Level Positions: Many Food Runners start as backwaiters or bussers and progress with experience.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Jersey City
Several well-known establishments in Jersey City frequently hire Food Runners, including:
- Lokal
- The Ashford & Six26
- McDonald's
Establishments That Food Runners in Jersey City Work At
Food Runners in Jersey City typically work across various types of establishments, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay, steady hours, often a good entry point.
- Fast Casual and Quick Service: Fast-paced environments with varying tip opportunities.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Generally higher wages and more tips, but may require more skills and professionalism.
- Hotels and Event Venues: May offer consistent hours and higher pay scales.
The type of establishment can significantly affect a Food Runner’s earnings, with upscale venues generally paying higher wages and providing better tip potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Jersey City for Food Runners
If you’re interested in roles similar to Food Runner, there are several related hospitality positions to consider.
These roles include Backwaiter, Busser, and Dishwasher, which involve supporting restaurant operations and often have overlapping duties with Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Jersey City
Food Runners should be aware of local and federal labor laws and tax requirements to ensure proper employment conditions and compliance.
- You can access detailed information about New Jersey labor laws and workplace regulations on the State of New Jersey's official website.
- For federal labor laws and employment standards, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.