Food Runner Salary in Killeen, TX
Food Runners in Killeen, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $11.00 per hour, which translates to about $440.00 per week, $1,906.67 per month, and $22,880.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Killeen is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting an increasing need for support staff in the vibrant food and hospitality industry of this region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Killeen, TX?
The salary of a Food Runner in Killeen varies depending on level of experience and employer. Below is an overview of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.00 | $360.00 | $1,560.00 | $18,720.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $11.00 | $440.00 | $1,906.67 | $22,880.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $12.00 | $480.00 | $2,080.00 | $24,960.00 |
Do Food Runners in Killeen Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do not earn tips directly as their main job is to support the serving staff by delivering food efficiently. Their compensation mostly comes from wages rather than gratuities. However, in some establishments, there may be tip pooling where Food Runners receive a share of tips collected by servers, which can increase their overall earnings modestly.
Food Runner Salary in Killeen vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.49 per hour, which equates to approximately $38,459.20 per year.
Compared to this national average, Food Runners in Killeen earn significantly less, at about $11.00 per hour and $22,880.00 annually. This difference may be due to local cost of living and regional industry factors in Killeen, TX.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Killeen for Food Runners
Nearby areas with higher pay rates for Food Runners include:
- Downtown Killeen: $12.00 per hour
- West Killeen: $11.50 per hour
Food Runners working in Downtown Killeen generally enjoy the highest pay rates in the region, reflecting possibly busier establishments or upscale venues.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Killeen?
Several factors can influence how much a Food Runner earns in Killeen:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners are valued for speed and efficiency and may earn better wages.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, and busy casual dining venues often pay higher salaries than fast food or small cafes.
- Skills and Reliability: Food Runners who demonstrate strong organizational and communication skills can negotiate higher pay.
- Shift and Hours: Working peak times, nights, or weekends may include shift differentials that increase earnings.
- Local Demand: Areas with more thriving restaurants and food service demand tend to offer better pay.
How To Become a Food Runner in Killeen
Becoming a Food Runner in Killeen involves several clear steps to prepare and qualify:
- Complete Food Handler Certification: This is required by the state of Texas to ensure safe food handling practices.
- Consider Culinary Arts Programs: Programs such as the Culinary Arts Program at Central Texas College provide comprehensive training in food preparation and kitchen operations.
- Take Hospitality Management Courses: The Hospitality Management Program at Texas A&M University-Central Texas offers knowledge in restaurant operations and customer service.
- Obtain TABC Certification: If working in establishments serving alcoholic beverages, the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission certification is necessary.
- Gain Experience in Food Service: Starting in entry-level food service positions can help you build skills and move into a Food Runner role.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Killeen
Several popular dining establishments in Killeen frequently hire Food Runners, including:
- Chili's
- Red Lobster
- Pluckers Wing Bar
Establishments That Food Runners in Killeen Work At
Food Runners in Killeen typically find positions in a variety of food service environments.
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These offer steady work and moderate wages, often with opportunities to improve through good performance.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually feature faster pacing with a focus on quick service, which may affect salary levels.
- Fine Dining Settings: In upscale restaurants, Food Runners may command higher wages due to the higher service standards and customer expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Larger hospitality venues often pay more and might offer additional benefits.
The type of establishment often reflects in the pay rate, with more upscale venues compensating Food Runners at higher levels.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Killeen for Food Runners
If you're interested in roles similar to Food Runner, you might consider these related hospitality positions that offer alternative career paths:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Dishwasher roles, all integral to restaurant operations and offering different salary ranges based on responsibility and skill.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Killeen
Understanding labor laws and tax obligations is important for Food Runners to manage their employment rights and financial responsibilities.
- Visit the Texas government website for comprehensive information on state labor laws and employment regulations.
- The U.S. Department of Labor's official site offers detailed resources regarding federal labor laws and workplace standards.