Food Runner Salary in Louisville, KY
Food Runners in Louisville, KY, 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 Louisville is looking up with a growth rate of about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects in the food service industry within the city.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Louisville, KY?
The salary of a Food Runner in Louisville varies based on experience and employer type. Here is an overview of earnings across different 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,933.33 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Louisville Earn Tips?
Food Runners in Louisville typically do not earn tips directly as their role focuses on delivering food from the kitchen to the table rather than customer service. Their compensation usually comes from base wages without tip income.
Food Runner Salary in Louisville vs. National Average
On a national level, Food Runners make an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Louisville earn slightly less hourly ($13.90 vs. $14.50) and yearly ($28,912 vs. $30,160), reflecting regional pay differences and living costs.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Louisville for Food Runners
Nearby areas in Louisville show higher pay rates for Food Runners:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- East End: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in these areas can expect better hourly wages than in other parts of Louisville, often due to the establishments and clientele present in these neighborhoods.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Louisville?
Several factors can influence how much a Food Runner earns in Louisville:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners typically command higher wages due to increased efficiency and knowledge of service flow.
- Skills: Strong communication and multitasking abilities can make Food Runners more valuable to employers.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy dining venues often pay more than casual or fast-food settings.
- Shift Timing: Working during peak hours or weekends might come with differential pay.
- Local Economy: Economic conditions and cost of living in Louisville affect salary ranges.
How To Become a Food Runner in Louisville
To start a career as a Food Runner, consider these important steps:
- Complete Food Safety Training: A Food Handler's Permit from the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness is often required.
- Obtain ServSafe Certification: This nationally recognized certification is frequently requested by employers to ensure proper food safety knowledge.
- Enroll in Culinary Arts Programs: Programs like the Jefferson Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program and the Sullivan University Culinary Arts Program offer valuable training and experience in the food service industry.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Working in entry-level hospitality roles helps develop the skills needed for Food Runner positions.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Louisville
Food Runners looking for work in Louisville can find opportunities with well-known employers such as:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Louisville Work At
Food Runners in Louisville commonly work in several types of establishments including:
- Casual and Fast Casual Restaurants: These offer a high volume of orders and steady employment but generally offer modest pay.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Food Runners here may earn higher wages due to the upscale nature of the venue and the level of service expected.
- Hotels and Resorts: Such venues can offer additional perks and slightly better salaries.
The type of establishment has a strong impact on compensation and work environment for Food Runners.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Louisville for Food Runners
If you're interested in exploring careers related to Food Running, consider these options that share similar skills and responsibilities:
These include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Busser roles which often involve related work in food service settings.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Louisville
Food Runners should understand applicable labor laws and tax regulations to ensure fair treatment and compliance. Some useful resources include:
- Federal labor laws can be explored on the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- For state-specific employment information, visit the Kentucky Career Center.
- Local regulations and employment resources are available on the Louisville Metro Government website.