Food Runner Salary in Providence, RI
Food Runners in Providence, RI, in 2025, make approximately $18.38 per hour, which equates to about $735.20 per week, $3,185.87 per month, and $38,230.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Providence is growing steadily at around 5% per year, signaling a healthy job market with increasing opportunities for this role in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Providence, RI?
The salary of a Food Runner in Providence varies with experience and skill, but the following gives an overview based on different career stages.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.00 | $600.00 | $2,600.00 | $31,200.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $18.38 | $735.20 | $3,185.87 | $38,230.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $31.64 | $1,265.60 | $5,461.87 | $65,539.20 |
Do Food Runners in Providence Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do earn tips as part of their compensation. They can make an additional approximate $5-$10 per hour in tips depending on the type of establishment and shift, significantly boosting their overall income.
Food Runner Salary in Providence vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $18.38 per hour, translating to approximately $38,230.40 annually.
Food Runners in Providence align closely with the national average for both hourly and annual earnings, making the city a balanced market for this profession.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Providence for Food Runners
Nearby cities offer higher wages for Food Runners, providing alternatives for those willing to commute:
- Warwick: $23.48 per hour
- Smithfield: $21.35 per hour
Warwick stands out as the highest-paying nearby area, offering significantly more than Providence on an hourly basis.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Providence?
Several key factors influence a Food Runner's salary in Providence:
- Experience and Efficiency: Food Runners with more experience and speed on their feet tend to earn higher wages and more tips.
- Skills and Knowledge: Understanding menu items, allergen awareness, and excellent communication skills enhance job value.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and busy venues often pay better and provide larger tips.
- Work Schedule and Shifts: Evening and weekend shifts might offer premium pay or better tipping opportunities.
- Location and Commuting Flexibility: Nearby higher-paying areas such as Warwick and Smithfield may impact salary decisions.
How To Become a Food Runner in Providence
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Providence typically involves:
- Gaining basic education and food safety training to comply with health standards.
- Certifications: Obtaining the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is highly recommended and often required.
- Consider hospitality management courses, such as those offered in Providence by the Community College of Rhode Island Hospitality Management Program, to better understand the food service environment.
- Hands-on experience in fast-paced environments like cafes or casual dining can provide valuable skills.
- Optional training like TIPS Certification can be beneficial in establishments that serve alcohol.
- Though not mandatory, programs like the Johnson & Wales University Culinary Arts Program can enhance culinary and service skills.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Providence
Several well-known establishments in Providence actively hire Food Runners:
- Al Forno Restaurant
- The Capital Grille
- Providence Marriott Downtown
Establishments That Food Runners in Providence Work At
Food Runners are typically employed across a variety of settings including:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These often offer steady schedules but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Eateries: Provide faster-paced environments with the potential for higher tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Usually provide the highest pay and tipping opportunities due to more upscale clientele and service expectations.
- Hotels and Resort Restaurants: May offer higher wages and benefits with varying tips based on location and guest traffic.
The type of establishment greatly influences the salary and tip earnings of Food Runners in Providence.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Providence for Food Runners
If you are looking for roles similar to Food Runner, consider exploring these related positions which also form part of the food service ecosystem.
These include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Server positions, which involve varying interactions with customers and kitchen operations.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Providence
Food Runners should be informed about relevant labor laws and tax requirements in Rhode Island.
- Visit the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training for comprehensive state labor laws and employment resources.
- For federal tax information, check the Internal Revenue Service website.
- Workplace safety regulations are available on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration site to ensure safe working conditions.