Food Runner Salary in Mesa, AZ
Food Runners in Mesa, AZ, in 2025, earn approximately $17.40 per hour, which translates to about $696.00 per week, $3,016.00 per month, and $36,192.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Mesa is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive job growth and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality sector.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Mesa, AZ?
The salary of a Food Runner in Mesa can vary with experience and employer, but below is a breakdown of earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $9.82 | $392.80 | $1,698.13 | $20,378.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.40 | $696.00 | $3,016.00 | $36,192.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $30.83 | $1,233.20 | $5,331.47 | $63,998.40 |
Do Food Runners in Mesa Earn Tips?
Food Runners generally do earn tips as part of their compensation, often receiving an extra $3 to $7 per hour in tips depending on the establishment’s tipping culture and customer volume.
Food Runner Salary in Mesa vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $17.40 per hour, which is roughly $36,192 annually.
In Mesa, the average hourly and yearly pay for Food Runners is equivalent to the national averages, indicating competitive wages within the local market.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Mesa for Food Runners
Nearby areas with higher wages for Food Runners include:
- Downtown Mesa: $18.50 per hour
- East Mesa: $19.00 per hour
Food Runners working in East Mesa generally earn slightly more than those in Downtown Mesa, offering better compensation opportunities close to the city center.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Mesa?
Several factors influence the salary of a Food Runner in Mesa:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Food Runners or those with exceptional customer service skills may earn higher wages.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or hotels typically pay more than fast-food or casual dining venues.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts might come with premium pay or increased tips.
- Certifications: Possessing certifications like a Food Handler's Card or ServSafe Certification can boost employability and salary.
- Local Demand: Economic growth in Mesa’s hospitality industry directly impacts job availability and wage levels.
How To Become a Food Runner in Mesa
To start a career as a Food Runner in Mesa, consider the following steps:
- Obtain Required Certifications: Arizona mandates a Food Handler's Card, which ensures workers understand safe food handling. The ServSafe Certification is also highly valued for food safety knowledge.
- Gain Culinary Knowledge: Enrolling in programs like the Mesa Community College Culinary Arts Program or the Arizona Culinary Institute can provide valuable foundational skills relevant to food service roles.
- Develop Customer Service Skills: Effective communication and attentiveness boost job performance and tip earning potential.
- Apply to Local Establishments: Start by seeking Food Runner positions in eateries and hotels that offer on-the-job training.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Mesa
Several prominent employers in Mesa frequently hire Food Runners, including:
- Chili's
- Sheraton
- Texas Roadhouse
Establishments That Food Runners in Mesa Work At
Food Runners in Mesa commonly work in a variety of hospitality venues such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments often have steady customer traffic and provide moderate wage levels with tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer quicker service with slightly lower wages but good tip potential due to high customer volume.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often pay higher hourly wages and may offer benefits, but tips might be lower compared to standalone restaurants.
The establishment type significantly affects salary and tips, with upscale and hotel environments generally paying better overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Mesa for Food Runners
If you are interested in roles similar to Food Runner, consider exploring the following related careers:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Server positions, which share some responsibilities and require similar skills in hospitality and customer service.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Mesa
Food Runners in Mesa should be aware of relevant labor laws and taxation requirements to ensure compliance and financial well-being.
- Check the Arizona Department of Health Services for state health regulations and guidelines specific to food service workers.
- Visit the Arizona Department of Economic Security for employment and labor resources, including wage laws and workers’ rights.
- For federal labor laws and tax information, the Official U.S. government website provides comprehensive resources.