Food Runner Salary in Meridian, ID
Food Runners in Meridian, ID, in 2025, earn approximately $20.76 per hour, which translates to about $830.40 per week, $3,598.40 per month, and $43,180.80 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Meridian is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a healthy and expanding job market in the food service industry within the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Meridian, ID?
The salary of a Food Runner in Meridian can vary depending on experience and level of expertise. Below is an overview of earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $19.31 | $772.40 | $3,337.87 | $40,005.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $20.76 | $830.40 | $3,598.40 | $43,180.80 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $23.25 | $930.00 | $4,025.00 | $48,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Meridian Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips as part of their compensation because they interact with customers by delivering food and ensuring timely service. In Meridian, Food Runners can expect to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift.
Food Runner Salary in Meridian vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.49 per hour, translating to about $38,459.20 per year.
Food Runners in Meridian tend to earn a higher hourly wage at about $20.76 per hour and approximately $43,180.80 annually, which is above the national average. This indicates competitive compensation for Food Runners in Meridian.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Meridian for Food Runners
Exploring areas near Meridian reveals some variation in pay for Food Runners:
- Downtown Meridian: $21.50 per hour
- The Village at Meridian: $22.00 per hour
These nearby areas offer slightly higher wages compared to the average for Meridian, reflecting localized demand and cost of living differences.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Meridian?
Several factors can influence how much a Food Runner earns in Meridian:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Food Runners who work efficiently and build good rapport with customers tend to earn higher wages and more tips.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and high-volume venues often pay more than fast casual or casual dining spots.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might yield higher tips and sometimes higher base pay.
- Local Economy and Cost of Living: Meridian's growing economy supports competitive wages for hospitality roles.
How To Become a Food Runner in Meridian
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Meridian requires minimal formal education, but pursuing specific training can improve job prospects and earning potential.
Consider enrolling in the Culinary Arts Program at College of Western Idaho, which offers comprehensive training in culinary skills, food safety, and kitchen management, preparing students for roles across the food service industry.
Additionally, obtaining a Food Handler's Permit required by Idaho for all food service workers demonstrates knowledge of safe food handling practices. The Food Safety Certification Course by Idaho Department of Health and Welfare provides essential knowledge of food safety standards, which is highly valuable.
The nationally recognized ServSafe Certification can also boost your credentials as it educates food service workers on sanitation and hygiene. These certifications help ensure compliance with health regulations and can differentiate candidates in the job market.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Meridian
Meridian has several well-known restaurants and chains hiring Food Runners regularly, including:
- Yard House
- Chili's Grill & Bar
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
Establishments That Food Runners in Meridian Work At
Food Runners typically work at a variety of food service establishments, including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These venues often provide a steady flow of customers and offer tips that can supplement base wages.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These places may offer quicker turnarounds and hourly wage structures but generally offer fewer tips.
- Upscale Dining Establishments: Working in higher-end restaurants can come with higher wages and larger tips, reflecting the clientele and service expectations.
- Hotels and Resorts: Food Runners are essential in hotel restaurants or banquet services and might receive shift differentials or bonuses.
The type of establishment impacts both base pay and tip opportunities, so Food Runners can consider their preferences and goals when choosing where to work.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Meridian for Food Runners
If you are interested in similar career paths in hospitality, consider these related roles that share some duties or skills with Food Runners:
These include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Busser positions, which involve related service and kitchen support duties and offer various salary ranges and career opportunities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Meridian
Food Runners should be aware of relevant labor laws and tax regulations that affect employment terms and compensation in Meridian.
- For federal labor laws and regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- The Idaho Department of Labor provides state-specific information on worker rights, wages, and workplace safety.
- The City of Meridian's official website offers local resources and regulations related to employment and business.