Food Runner Salary in Lincoln, NE
Food Runners in Lincoln, NE, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Lincoln is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the hospitality industry locally.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Lincoln, NE?
The salary of a Food Runner in Lincoln varies based on experience and employer specifics. Below is a breakdown of earnings by typical experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Lincoln Earn Tips?
Food Runners often have limited direct interaction with customers and generally do not earn significant tips. However, in some restaurants, they may receive a small share of tips ranging from $1 to $3 per hour based on the establishment's policy.
Food Runner Salary in Lincoln vs. National Average
Across the United States, Food Runners earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which equals roughly $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Lincoln earn a bit less per hour, with a typical wage of $13.90 per hour and an annual salary of approximately $28,912.
This slight difference may reflect Lincoln's cost of living and local industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lincoln for Food Runners
When exploring nearby areas, some districts in Lincoln offer higher wages for Food Runners:
- Downtown Lincoln: $15.50 per hour
- Haymarket District: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners in the Haymarket District can expect the highest pay compared to surrounding neighborhoods.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Lincoln?
Several factors influence how much a Food Runner can earn in Lincoln:
- Experience and Efficiency: More experienced Food Runners tend to get higher pay due to their speed, reliability, and ability to multi-task effectively.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy hotel dining rooms usually pay better than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Shift Hours: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher wages or shift differentials for Food Runners.
- Skills and Additional Roles: Food Runners who also assist with other duties like bussing tables or basic food preparation can negotiate higher pay.
How To Become a Food Runner in Lincoln
Starting as a Food Runner in Lincoln is accessible with minimal formal training, but certain steps can boost employability and pay:
- Gain Basic Food Safety Knowledge: Obtaining a Food Handler's Permit is often required by employers and demonstrates awareness of safe food handling.
- Consider Certification: Pursuing a ServSafe Certification can give candidates an advantage in the job market.
- Attend Culinary Training: Programs such as those at the Lincoln Culinary Institute or Southeast Community College Culinary Program provide foundational skills in food preparation and service that benefit Food Runners.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Polite and efficient interaction with guests helps Food Runners stand out.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Lincoln
Some prominent companies in Lincoln that frequently hire Food Runners include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Lincoln Work At
Food Runners typically work in a variety of hospitality venues in Lincoln such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: These offer a high volume of work but usually pay on the lower end of the wage spectrum.
- Casual Dining Establishments: These often provide steadier hours and a moderate pay scale.
- Fine Dining and Upscale Restaurants: Pay is generally higher here, reflecting the emphasis on quality service and presentation.
- Hotels and Banquet Facilities: These provide opportunities for consistent work and sometimes better wages due to the nature of events.
The type and prestige of the establishment directly influence both the Food Runner's pay and working conditions.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lincoln for Food Runners
If you are exploring roles similar to Food Runner, consider positions that involve food service support and customer interaction.
These include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Busser positions, all of which share overlapping duties or environments with Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Lincoln
Understanding labor laws and tax guidelines is essential for Food Runners to protect their rights and manage finances effectively.
- Federal labor standards and regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For Nebraska-specific labor laws and resources, consult the Nebraska Department of Labor.