Food Runner Salary in Madison, WI
Food Runners in Madison, WI, in 2026, earn approximately $19.25 per hour, which comes to about $770.00 per week, $3,336.67 per month, and $40,040.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Madison is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities within the food service industry in this area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Madison, WI?
The salary of a Food Runner in Madison varies depending on experience and employer, but below is an overview of typical earnings at different levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $8.09 | $323.60 | $1,401.73 | $16,820.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $19.25 | $770.00 | $3,291.67 | $40,040.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $45.79 | $1,831.60 | $7,894.27 | $94,999.20 |
Do Food Runners in Madison Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips as part of their compensation. On average, they can make an additional $5 to $15 per hour in tips depending on the restaurant's tipping policies and the shift. This can significantly boost their overall pay, especially in busy dining establishments.
Food Runner Salary in Madison vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18 per hour, which amounts to approximately $37,440 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Madison earn slightly more at $19.25 per hour or $40,040 annually, reflecting the local market demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Madison for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer the following average hourly wages for Food Runners:
- Lake Geneva: $19.58 per hour
- Middleton: $18.44 per hour
Lake Geneva offers the highest pay among the surrounding areas, making it an attractive option for Food Runners seeking better earnings near Madison.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Madison?
Several factors can affect a Food Runner’s salary in Madison:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners often command higher wages and greater tipping potential.
- Skills: Efficient multitasking, speed, and customer service increase earning chances, particularly with higher tips.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining restaurants usually pay more and offer better tipping opportunities than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift and Hours: Working busy shifts, weekends, or holidays may result in higher hourly wages or better tips.
- Location: Restaurants in higher-cost or high-traffic areas tend to offer better compensation.
How To Become a Food Runner in Madison
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Madison involves several clear steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Understanding restaurant operations and customer service is essential.
- Enroll in Culinary or Food Service Programs: Madison College Culinary Arts Program offers valuable hands-on training relevant to various food service roles including Food Runner.
- Consider Food Science Education: The University of Wisconsin-Madison Food Science Program can provide insightful background knowledge supporting a food service career.
- Obtain Relevant Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification teach vital food safety practices.
- Complete State Alcohol Service Training: The Wisconsin Responsible Beverage Server Training is recommended for roles interacting with alcohol service.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Madison
Several prominent employers frequently hire Food Runners in Madison, including:
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Olive Garden
- Flix Brewhouse
- The Edgewater Hotel
Establishments That Food Runners in Madison Work At
Food Runners typically find employment in a diverse range of establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often provide steady hours but moderate pay and tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Usually busier environments with faster service pace and more tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: These offer the highest earnings potential through better hourly rates and substantial tipping.
- Hotels and Event Venues: Food Runners here may earn steady wages with occasional tips depending on event sizes.
The type of establishment has a significant impact on both wages and tip income, with fine dining venues generally offering the best financial rewards.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Madison for Food Runners
If you are considering careers related to Food Runner, here are some similar hospitality roles worth exploring:
These include Busser, Backwaiter, and Waiter/Waitress roles, all of which share overlapping skills and work environments with Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Madison
Food Runners in Madison should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor regulations to ensure fair work conditions and proper tax compliance.
- Visit the U.S. Department of Labor official website for comprehensive information on federal labor laws and workers' rights.
- For state-specific guidance, the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development website offers resources on employment standards in Wisconsin.
- The City of Madison official website provides important local government information related to employment and labor.