Food Runner Salary in Memphis, TN
Food Runners in Memphis, TN, in 2025, earn approximately $19.75 per hour, which translates to about $790.00 per week, $3,423.33 per month, and $41,080.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Memphis is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive outlook and increasing opportunities in the food service industry in this region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Memphis, TN?
The earnings of a Food Runner in Memphis vary depending on experience, but the following table provides an overview of pay across various levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.12 | $444.80 | $1,933.87 | $23,206.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.10 | $524.00 | $2,258.67 | $27,248.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $21.75 | $870.00 | $3,775.00 | $45,240.00 |
Do Food Runners in Memphis Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips as part of their compensation, typically averaging around $5 to $10 per hour in tips. This supplement can significantly enhance their overall earnings depending on the establishment and customer flow.
Food Runner Salary in Memphis vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn about $15.04 per hour, translating to approximately $31,283.20 annually.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Memphis earn a higher hourly rate of $19.75 and an annual salary of $41,080.00, reflecting the local market demand and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Memphis for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer some variation in salaries for Food Runners:
- Downtown: $20.15 per hour
- Germantown: $19.32 per hour
Working in Downtown Memphis provides the highest earning potential among nearby locations thanks to higher traffic and possibly more upscale dining venues.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Memphis?
Several factors can influence how much a Food Runner earns in Memphis:
- Experience and Efficiency: Food Runners with more experience and faster service skills earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or high-volume venues tend to pay more than casual dining.
- Location: Working in busy or affluent neighborhoods often leads to better pay and more tips.
- Shift and Hours: Evening and weekend shifts may offer premium pay or higher tipping opportunities.
How To Become a Food Runner in Memphis
For those interested in becoming a Food Runner in Memphis, here are some steps to get started:
- Gain Basic Knowledge: Enroll in culinary or hospitality introductory courses for foundational food service skills.
- Culinary Arts Program at Southwest Tennessee Community College: This provides comprehensive training in food handling and service, preparing students for roles like Food Runner.
- Hospitality Management Program at University of Memphis: Learn broader hospitality concepts suitable for advancement in restaurant roles.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure adherence to food safety standards common for Food Runners.
- Tennessee Alcoholic Beverage Commission (TABC) Server Permit: Important for environments where alcohol is served.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Memphis
Several well-known restaurant chains often hire Food Runners in Memphis:
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Main Event
Establishments That Food Runners in Memphis Work At
Food Runners are employed across various dining establishments, including:
- Casual Dining: These establishments offer stable hours and moderate wages.
- Fast Casual: Fast-paced environments with potential for higher tips during busy hours.
- Fine Dining: Often pay higher wages and tips but require greater service skills and professionalism.
- Hotel Restaurants and Banquets: Offer diverse experiences and sometimes higher pay, especially during events.
The establishment type impacts salary through differences in base pay, tip availability, and work environment stress.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Memphis for Food Runners
For those exploring similar roles within hospitality, several career paths overlap with that of a Food Runner.
These include Server, Busser, and Fast Food Worker roles, each with similar skillsets and work environments to Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Memphis
Food Runners should stay informed about labor laws and taxation regulations affecting their employment in Memphis and Tennessee.
- For state-specific laws, visit the official website of the State of Tennessee to understand wage standards, working hours, and rights.
- Federal labor laws and workplace regulations are detailed on the U.S. Department of Labor's official website, which is a valuable resource for employees.