Food Runner Salary in Montgomery, AL
Food Runners in Montgomery, AL, in 2025, earn approximately $13.90 per hour, which translates to about $556.00 per week, $2,409.33 per month, and $28,912.00 per year.
The job market for Food Runners in Montgomery is showing positive growth of about 5% per year, indicating increasing demand and opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Montgomery, AL?
Food Runner salaries can vary widely in Montgomery depending on experience and the employer. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $10.50 | $420.00 | $1,820.00 | $21,840.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $14.10 | $564.00 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Montgomery Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do not earn tips directly as their role is focused on supporting servers by delivering food from kitchen to table efficiently. However, in some establishments, they may receive small tips or bonuses totaling around an extra $5 per day, but this is not guaranteed.
Food Runner Salary in Montgomery vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $14.50 per hour and $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Montgomery earn slightly less hourly ($13.90 vs. $14.50) and have a lower annual salary ($28,912 vs. $30,160). This difference may be influenced by local cost of living and demand factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Montgomery for Food Runners
Nearby areas with higher average pay for Food Runners include:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- East Montgomery: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in East Montgomery generally earn the highest wages compared to other nearby parts of the city.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Montgomery?
Experience and Tenure: More experienced Food Runners with strong knowledge of restaurant operations often command better pay.
Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or busy venues typically offer higher wages than casual or fast food environments.
Skills and Efficiency: Strong communication, multitasking, and speed improve performance and salary potential.
Shift Timing: Working night, weekend, or holiday shifts may include shift differentials or bonuses.
Local Demand & Cost of Living: Montgomery’s moderate living cost keeps wages competitive but somewhat below national averages.
How To Become a Food Runner in Montgomery
Becoming a Food Runner involves a combination of entry-level opportunities and relevant training:
- Gain Basic Culinary and Service Knowledge: Programs such as the Montgomery Culinary Arts Program at Montgomery Community College provide a strong foundation.
- Earn Hospitality Certifications: The Hospitality Management Certificate at Auburn University at Montgomery is helpful for career advancement.
- Obtain Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like ServSafe Food Handler ensure compliance with health regulations.
- Understand Local Regulations: The Alabama Responsible Vendor Program is beneficial if working in establishments that serve alcohol.
- Gain Experience: Starting as an assistant or in related roles like Busser or Server can help launch a Food Runner career.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Montgomery
Montgomery’s food service industry features a variety of employers actively recruiting Food Runners, including:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Montgomery Work At
Food Runners in Montgomery typically find employment in various food service settings such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pace and customer volume with competitive wages.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Higher volume but lower individual pay, with opportunities for tips occasionally.
- Fine Dining Venues: Higher wages and potential for tips but require higher efficiency and knowledge.
- Hotels and Catering Services: More stable positions often come with benefits.
The salary varies depending on the size, prestige, and clientele of the establishment.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Montgomery for Food Runners
If you’re exploring careers related to Food Runner, consider these similar roles that often have overlapping skills and career paths:
These include Busser, Backwaiter, and Server roles which often provide stepping stones or complementary skills for Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Montgomery
Food Runners should be informed about labor laws and tax obligations that govern their employment in Montgomery:
- Federal labor standards and employee rights can be found at the U.S. Department of Labor.
- State-specific labor laws and resources are available on the Alabama Department of Labor website.
- Local employment regulations and resources can be accessed via the City of Montgomery’s official website.