Food Runner Salary in Lakeland, FL
Food Runners in Lakeland, FL, in 2025, earn approximately $19.43 per hour, which translates to about $777.20 per week, $3,367.87 per month, and $40,414.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Lakeland is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook for job opportunities and career progression in this role.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Lakeland, FL?
The salary of a Food Runner in Lakeland can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.43 | $777.20 | $3,367.87 | $40,414.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $38.21 | $1,528.40 | $6,598.13 | $79,380.80 |
Do Food Runners in Lakeland Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do receive tips since they work closely with servers and customers to deliver food quickly and efficiently. On average, Food Runners in Lakeland can earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, which can significantly boost their overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Lakeland, FL vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.50 per hour, translating to about $38,480 per year.
When compared to the national average, Food Runners in Lakeland earn slightly more at approximately $19.43 per hour and $40,414.40 annually.
This increase may reflect local market factors such as cost of living and demand for hospitality staff in the area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lakeland for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer somewhat higher pay for Food Runners:
- Downtown Lakeland: $20.50 per hour
- Lakeland Highlands: $21.00 per hour
Food Runners commuting to these neighborhoods may find better compensation compared to Lakeland proper.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Lakeland?
Several factors play key roles in determining the salary of a Food Runner in Lakeland:
- Experience and Efficiency: Experienced Food Runners who work swiftly and accurately often command higher wages.
- Skills and Customer Service: Strong communication and customer interaction skills can lead to more tips and better pay.
- Type of Establishment: Working at upscale or busy restaurants usually offers higher pay than at smaller or fast casual venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may provide shift differentials boosting overall earnings.
- Local Demand and Cost of Living: Lakeland's hospitality market growth influences wages positively.
How To Become a Food Runner in Lakeland, FL
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Lakeland involves several practical steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Enrolling in programs such as the Polk State College Culinary Arts Program or Traviss Technical College Hospitality and Tourism Program can provide foundational skills.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Earning the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures compliance with food safety standards and boosts employability.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Effective communication and professionalism are important for this role.
- Seek Entry-Level Positions: Many begin as Busser, Hostess, or in other restaurant support roles to build experience.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Lakeland, FL
Several well-known restaurant chains commonly hire Food Runners in Lakeland:
- Chili's
- Outback Steakhouse
- Red Lobster
- Olive Garden
- Applebee's
Establishments That Food Runners in Lakeland Work At
Food Runners usually find positions in various types of establishments including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay with opportunity to earn tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often faster-paced with slightly lower wages but steady demand.
- Upscale Restaurants: Typically offer higher wages and more tip income.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Seasonal or event-driven work with variable pay depending on the venue.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly influence salary and tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lakeland, FL for Food Runners
If you're interested in exploring roles similar to Food Runner, here are some related positions often found in the hospitality industry:
These include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Busser positions, which share similar work environments and responsibilities with Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Lakeland, FL
Food Runners should be aware of federal and state labor laws and tax obligations to work effectively and legally in Lakeland.
- For comprehensive information on federal labor laws, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- To learn about Florida’s labor laws and employment resources, see the official State of Florida website.