Food Runner Salary in Lowell, MA
Food Runners in Lowell, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $16.49 per hour, which translates to about $659.60 per week, $2,858.27 per month, and $34,299.20 per year.
The job market for Food Runners in Lowell is growing positively at about 10% per year, showing an increasing demand for reliable and efficient service staff in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Lowell, MA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Lowell varies based on experience and the employer. Below is an overview of earnings at different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $12.50 | $500.00 | $2,166.67 | $26,000.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.49 | $659.60 | $2,858.27 | $34,299.20 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $22.45 | $898.00 | $3,868.67 | $46,696.00 |
Do Food Runners in Lowell Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips in addition to their hourly wage, which can significantly increase their total earnings. On average, Food Runners may earn an extra $5-$10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and level of service.
Food Runner Salary in Lowell vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn about $18.49 per hour, translating to around $38,459.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Lowell earn slightly less, approximately $16.49 per hour and $34,299.20 annually.
This difference may be due to regional cost of living and varying demand in Lowell compared to other parts of the country.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Lowell for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer varying salary levels for Food Runners:
- Downtown Lowell: $22.45 per hour
- Belvidere: $16.49 per hour
Food Runners working in Downtown Lowell can expect to earn significantly more compared to Belvidere, reflecting the busy dining scene in the heart of the city.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Lowell?
Several factors affect how much a Food Runner can earn in Lowell:
- Experience and Efficiency: More experienced Food Runners tend to work faster and handle higher-volume shifts, often earning better wages and tips.
- Skills and Customer Service: Good communication and teamwork skills enhance job performance, potentially leading to bonuses or higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants or busy urban eateries may offer higher base pay and better tips compared to casual dining spots.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher tips and sometimes shift differentials.
- Local Demand: Areas with active dining scenes or tourist influxes can drive salaries higher.
How To Become a Food Runner in Lowell
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Lowell can be straightforward, but gaining relevant skills and certifications helps improve job prospects.
Consider these pathways:
- The Food Service Management Certificate from Middlesex Community College offers essential knowledge in food service operations, safety, and customer service.
- The Hospitality and Culinary Arts Program available at Greater Lowell Technical High School provides hands-on training in culinary skills and hospitality management.
- Obtaining nationally recognized certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensures awareness of food safety practices, which many employers require.
- For those working in establishments serving alcohol, the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification is beneficial for responsible alcohol service.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Lowell
Several well-known establishments in Lowell frequently seek reliable Food Runners:
- Chili's
- Pressed Cafe
- Fishbones
Establishments That Food Runners in Lowell Work At
Food Runners commonly work in diverse types of establishments, including:
- Casual dining restaurants: Typically offer standard pay and good tipping opportunities depending on the customer volume.
- Fast casual eateries: These establishments often have higher turnover rates and steady shifts but may pay slightly less.
- Hotels and banquet halls: Provide opportunities for higher tips or salaries during busy event seasons.
- Fine dining venues: Usually offer higher wages and significant tips to experienced Food Runners.
Working at upscale or busier sites generally allows Food Runners to maximize their earnings compared to smaller or less busy locations.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Lowell for Food Runners
If you’re exploring careers related to Food Running, several similar positions exist within the hospitality and food service sectors.
These include roles such as Busser, Dishwasher, and Cashier, which share similar service and operational duties in food establishments.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Lowell
Understanding the relevant labor laws and tax regulations is essential for Food Runners working in Lowell.
- Details about state-specific labor laws, including minimum wage and overtime, are available on the Massachusetts government website.
- For federal labor standards and workplace regulations, the U.S. Department of Labor website is a comprehensive resource.