Food Runner Salary in Palm Bay, FL
Food Runners in Palm Bay, FL, in 2026, 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 demand for Food Runners in Palm Bay is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook in the hospitality and restaurant industries in this area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Palm Bay, FL?
The salary of a Food Runner in Palm Bay can vary based on experience and employer, but generally, salaries span a modest range from entry-level to top earners.
| 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 | $2,433.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Palm Bay Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn tips in addition to their base salary, often receiving about $5 to $10 per hour in tips depending on the establishment and shift, significantly boosting overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Palm Bay vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to about $30,160 per year.
Comparing this to Palm Bay, FL, where Food Runners make approximately $13.90 per hour and $28,912 per year, salaries here are slightly below the national average, reflecting regional cost of living and demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Palm Bay for Food Runners
Looking at neighboring areas, Food Runner salaries can be higher:
- Merritt Island: $15.50 per hour
- Melbourne: $17.60 per hour
Relocating or commuting to these areas may yield better pay for Food Runners compared to Palm Bay.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Palm Bay?
Several factors significantly influence how much a Food Runner can earn in Palm Bay, including:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners often command higher wages and better tips.
- Skill and Efficiency: The ability to handle multiple orders quickly and maintain strong communication can improve earnings.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants or busy venues often pay more and provide higher tips than casual dining spots.
- Shift Timing: Working peak hours, weekends, and holidays can result in higher pay or tip income.
- Local Demand and Competition: Higher demand for Food Runners and lower supply can push wages up.
How To Become a Food Runner in Palm Bay
Becoming a Food Runner in Palm Bay generally involves the following steps:
- Gain Basic Hospitality Experience: Starting in roles such as Busser or Server Assistant can provide relevant skills.
- Take Food Safety and Customer Service Courses: Programs like the ServSafe Certification or local food handling courses improve employability.
- Develop Physical Stamina and Communication Skills: These are essential for the fast-paced work of a Food Runner.
- Consider Culinary Education: Though not required, courses at institutions like the Florida Institute of Technology can provide a strong foundation in hospitality.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Palm Bay
Some of the notable employers hiring Food Runners in Palm Bay include:
- McDonalds
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Palm Bay Work At
Food Runners in Palm Bay can be found working in various types of establishments such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Typically lower hourly wages but steady tips; often entry points into the hospitality industry.
- Casual Dining: Moderate pay with better tip opportunities, depending on customer volume.
- Upscale and Fine Dining: Higher salaries with more substantial tips, but usually requiring more polished service and efficiency.
- Catering and Banquet Halls: These may offer seasonal or event-based work with varying pay scales.
The type of establishment significantly impacts the overall compensation a Food Runner can expect.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Palm Bay for Food Runners
For those considering roles related to Food Running, here are some similar hospitality positions worth exploring:
These include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Server positions, all related roles in the hospitality sector offering different responsibilities and pay ranges.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Palm Bay
Food Runners in Palm Bay should be mindful of the relevant labor laws and tax responsibilities.
- Information about Florida labor laws, including minimum wage, overtime, and workers’ rights, can be found on the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity website.
- For federal labor regulations and tax requirements, the U.S. Department of Labor website provides comprehensive resources.