Food Runner Salary in McAllen, TX
Food Runners in McAllen, TX, in 2025, earn approximately $9.63 per hour, which translates to about $385.20 per week, $1,669.20 per month, and $20,030.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in McAllen is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and expanding opportunities in the food service industry in the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in McAllen, TX?
The salary of a Food Runner in McAllen varies by experience level and employer. Here's an overview of typical earnings:
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $7.85 | $314.00 | $1,356.67 | $16,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $9.63 | $385.20 | $1,669.20 | $20,030.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $11.81 | $472.40 | $2,039.33 | $24,534.40 |
Do Food Runners in McAllen Earn Tips?
Food Runners in McAllen generally do not earn tips as their role primarily involves delivering food from the kitchen to customers but usually they are not engaged in direct service that results in tipping. Their earnings mostly come from their wages.
Food Runner Salary in McAllen vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $17.96 per hour, which equates to about $37,356.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in McAllen earn significantly less, making about $9.63 per hour and $20,030.40 annually. This difference reflects local market conditions and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near McAllen for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer slightly higher pay rates for Food Runners:
- Downtown McAllen: $10.50 per hour
- North McAllen: $11.00 per hour
If you reside near North McAllen or Downtown McAllen, you might find better pay opportunities compared to the city average.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in McAllen?
Several factors can affect how much a Food Runner earns in McAllen:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners tend to command higher wages.
- Skills: Efficiency, speed, and good communication skills can lead to better pay and job opportunities.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or busy hotels often results in higher salaries compared to casual dining.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts may offer shift differentials boosting pay.
- Location: Proximity to higher-paying neighborhoods or areas with more tourist traffic can influence salary offers.
How To Become a Food Runner in McAllen
Becoming a Food Runner in McAllen involves several practical steps that improve job prospects:
- Complete Training Programs: Consider enrolling in programs like the South Texas College Culinary Arts Program or the McAllen Career Institute Hospitality Management Program to gain essential culinary and hospitality knowledge.
- Obtain Food Handler Certification: Required for all food service employees in Texas, this certification ensures you know proper food safety practices.
- Get TABC Certification: For establishments serving alcohol, Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission certification is often required.
- Gain Experience: Starting with entry-level jobs in restaurants helps build skills and familiarity with the fast-paced food service environment.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in McAllen
If you are looking for a Food Runner position, consider applying to these prominent employers in McAllen:
- Chili's
- Main Event Entertainment
- P.F. Chang's
Establishments That Food Runners in McAllen Work At
Food Runners can be found working in various types of establishments, each affecting their salary potential:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These are common employers, often providing steady but moderate wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer a faster-paced work environment, sometimes with slightly different pay scales.
- Hotels and Resorts: Higher-end establishments may pay more and provide better benefits.
- Entertainment Venues: Places like Main Event Entertainment often employ Food Runners, where volume and speed are essential.
The nature and prestige of the establishment significantly influence Food Runner salaries in McAllen.
Related Hospitality Jobs in McAllen for Food Runner
If you're interested in related roles within the hospitality industry, here are similar careers worth exploring:
These include Server, Fry Cook, and Busser positions, which share similar work environments and skill sets.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in McAllen
Food Runners should stay informed about local labor laws and tax regulations to ensure their rights and obligations are met.
- Official information about labor laws and employment in Texas can be found on the Texas government website.
- The Texas Workforce Commission offers resources on employment services and labor market data beneficial for Food Runners.