Food Runner Salary in Pasadena, CA
Food Runners in Pasadena, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.48 per hour, which translates to about $699.20 per week, $3,029.87 per month, and $36,358.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Pasadena is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive trend and an expanding market for this essential hospitality role in the region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Pasadena, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Pasadena varies depending on experience and specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across different experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $16.53 | $661.20 | $2,864.40 | $34,372.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.48 | $699.20 | $3,029.87 | $36,358.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $18.49 | $739.60 | $3,208.27 | $38,499.20 |
Do Food Runners in Pasadena Earn Tips?
Food Runners generally do earn tips as part of their compensation. In Pasadena, Food Runners can expect to make an additional approximately $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and shift. Tips can significantly enhance the overall earnings of a Food Runner.
Food Runner Salary in Pasadena vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $19.13 per hour, translating to about $39,790.40 per year.
When compared to the national average, Food Runners in Pasadena earn slightly less, at about $17.48 per hour and $36,358.40 annually. This difference could be due to local economic factors and cost of living variations.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Pasadena for Food Runners
Nearby areas to Pasadena offer the following pay rates for Food Runners:
- Old Pasadena: $18.04 per hour
- South Lake Avenue District: $17.48 per hour
Food Runners working in Old Pasadena can expect higher pay compared to those in South Lake Avenue District, likely reflecting differences in demand and clientele.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Pasadena?
Several factors can influence the salary of a Food Runner in Pasadena:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Food Runners with strong communication and speed skills often earn better wages.
- Type of Establishment: Working in upscale restaurants or fine dining venues typically offers higher pay compared to casual dining or fast food places.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may come with shift differentials or higher tips.
- Location within Pasadena: Areas with higher living costs or busier hospitality scenes might pay more.
- Additional Responsibilities: Food Runners who assist with extra duties, such as bussing tables or light food prep, might command higher wages.
How To Become a Food Runner in Pasadena
Becoming a Food Runner in Pasadena is accessible but can be enhanced by following these steps:
- Gain basic knowledge of food service and hospitality, which can be developed through entry-level jobs or volunteer positions.
- Complete relevant culinary or hospitality training, such as the Pasadena City College Culinary Arts Program or Le Cordon Bleu College of Culinary Arts in Pasadena, which provide valuable foundational skills.
- Obtain mandatory certifications, including the California Food Handler Card and the nationally recognized ServSafe Certification, which are often required for food service roles.
- Develop strong customer service and communication skills, as Food Runners engage directly with both kitchen staff and customers.
- Build physical stamina and organizational abilities, crucial for the fast-paced environment of a dining establishment.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Pasadena
Several prominent establishments in Pasadena actively hire Food Runners, including:
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- The Raymond 1886
- Urban Plates
Establishments That Food Runners in Pasadena Work At
Food Runners in Pasadena commonly work in a range of service establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Provide steady employment with moderate pay; often busy environments.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically offer faster-paced work and may have different tipping structures.
- Fine Dining Venues: Often pay higher wages and tips due to upscale clientele and service expectations.
- Hotels and Event Spaces: Opportunities for Food Runners during functions and events, sometimes with variable hours and pay rates.
The type of establishment can significantly impact total earnings, especially concerning hourly wage and tipping potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Pasadena for Food Runners
If you are considering roles similar to Food Runner, here are a few related careers worth exploring:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Dishwasher positions, which involve support roles within the food service industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Pasadena
Food Runners should be mindful of state and federal labor laws, as well as relevant tax regulations:
- Find California employment laws and worker rights on the California Department of Industrial Relations website.
- Access employment services, benefits, and tax information through the California Employment Development Department.
- Learn about federal labor standards and worker protections on the U.S. Department of Labor site.