Food Runner Salary in Oxnard, CA
Food Runners in Oxnard, CA, in 2026, earn approximately $16.50 per hour, which translates to about $660.00 per week, $2,860.00 per month, and $34,320.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Oxnard is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job prospects and expanding opportunities within the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Oxnard, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Oxnard varies with experience and employer type, but below is a breakdown by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.00 | $640.00 | $2,773.33 | $33,280.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $16.50 | $660.00 | $2,860.00 | $34,320.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Oxnard Earn Tips?
Food Runners usually do not earn tips as their role primarily involves supporting kitchen and wait staff behind the scenes or delivering food within the restaurant. Their earnings mainly come from base salary or hourly wage.
Food Runner Salary in Oxnard vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $14.50 per hour, which amounts to roughly $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Oxnard earn a higher wage, approximately $16.50 per hour and $34,320 annually, reflecting local economic conditions and demand for food service roles.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Oxnard for Food Runners
For Food Runners looking to work nearby, pay rates in surrounding neighborhoods include:
- Downtown Oxnard: $16.50 per hour
- Riverpark: $16.50 per hour
The pay in these areas is consistent with Oxnard’s average, giving job seekers flexibility within the region.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Oxnard?
The salary of a Food Runner in Oxnard can be impacted by several key factors. Here are some important influences:
- Experience and Efficiency: Food Runners with more time on the job and demonstrated speed and accuracy often earn better wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or hotels usually pays more than fast food or casual dining venues.
- Skills and Multitasking Ability: Those who can assist with additional responsibilities, such as minimal food prep or customer interaction, might see increased pay.
- Shift Timing: Evening or weekend shifts sometimes offer higher pay rates due to demand.
- Local Economic Conditions: Wage standards in Oxnard and surrounding areas also shape compensation.
How To Become a Food Runner in Oxnard
Becoming a Food Runner in Oxnard involves a few practical steps to set yourself up for success.
- Acquire Food Handler Certification: Obtain the California Food Handler Card to meet state food safety requirements.
- Learn Food Safety Practices: Earn the ServSafe Food Handler Certification, recognized nationally and valued by employers.
- Consider Educational Programs: Enroll in culinary or hospitality courses such as the Ventura College Culinary Arts Program for foundational skills or Oxnard College Restaurant Management Program to understand restaurant operations better.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Apply for entry-level roles in food service to build practical skills and workplace familiarity.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Oxnard
Several restaurant chains and dining establishments actively hire Food Runners in the Oxnard area, including:
- Chili's
- Yard House
- Outback Steakhouse
- Dave's Hot Chicken
Establishments That Food Runners in Oxnard Work At
Food Runners typically find opportunities in a range of dining establishments. These include:
- Casual Dining: Medium-priced restaurants where Food Runners support waitstaff by delivering food quickly and efficiently.
- Fast Casual: Faster-paced venues where speed and order accuracy are paramount, often with slightly lower wages.
- Full-Service Restaurants: These may pay more as Food Runners assist in higher-end service environments.
- Hotels and Banquet Halls: Large-scale operations offering varied schedules and sometimes higher pay due to event demands.
The type of establishment can impact salary, with upscale venues generally offering greater earning potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Oxnard for Food Runners
If you are interested in positions related to Food Runner roles, here are some careers to consider:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Dishwasher — all integral roles in restaurant operations that share similar work environments with Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Oxnard
If you are employed as a Food Runner in Oxnard, it’s essential to understand your rights and tax obligations under applicable labor laws. Helpful resources include:
- California Department of Industrial Relations (state labor laws) — for workplace regulations and protections.
- California Employment Development Department (state employment services) — for unemployment and disability benefits.
- U.S. Department of Labor (federal labor laws) — for federal workplace guidelines and wage standards.