Food Runner Salary in Renton, WA
Food Runners in Renton, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.35 per hour, which amounts to about $694.00 per week, $3,007.33 per month, and $36,088.00 per year.
The job outlook for Food Runners in Renton is positive, with employment projected to grow by about 5% per year. This reflects a steady demand for efficient and customer-focused food service professionals in the area.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Renton, WA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Renton can vary based on experience and where they work. Below is a breakdown of typical earnings by experience level.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.50 | $580.00 | $2,516.67 | $30,160.00 |
| Mid-level (average) | $17.35 | $694.00 | $3,007.33 | $36,088.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $20.95 | $838.00 | $3,616.67 | $43,576.00 |
Do Food Runners in Renton Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn tips as part of their compensation. On average, they can earn an additional around $2 to $5 per hour in tips, depending on the restaurant type and customer volume, supplementing their base salary considerably.
Food Runner Salary in Renton vs. National Average
The national average salary for Food Runners is approximately $14.50 per hour, or about $30,160 annually.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Renton earn a higher average hourly wage of $17.35 and an annual salary of about $36,088, which can be attributed to regional market demand and cost of living in the Renton area.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Renton for Food Runners
Nearby areas to Renton offer slightly different pay scales for Food Runners:
- Downtown Renton: $18.50 per hour
- The Landing: $19.00 per hour
Food Runners working in The Landing area may enjoy the highest pay, reflecting the area's bustling hospitality scene.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Renton?
Several factors have a significant impact on what a Food Runner can earn in Renton.
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners often earn higher wages and receive more consistent tips.
- Skill level: Efficient multitasking and strong communication skills can lead to better job performance and higher pay.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale restaurants and busy venues generally offer better pay and tip opportunities than casual or fast food establishments.
- Shift and Hours: Night or weekend shifts often come with pay differentials or increased tipping potential.
- Local Demand: The higher demand for service staff in high-traffic locations can raise salaries.
How To Become a Food Runner in Renton
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Renton typically requires minimal formal education but focusing on training and certifications can boost opportunities.
- Training Programs: Consider enrolling in culinary programs like the Renton Technical College Culinary Arts Program or the Seattle Central College Culinary Academy for foundational culinary and service knowledge.
- Food Safety Certification: Obtaining certifications such as the Washington State Food Worker Card or the ServSafe Food Handler Certification is mandatory and important to demonstrate knowledge of food handling and safety.
- Customer Service Skills: Developing strong interpersonal and communication skills helps in career advancement.
- Gaining Experience: Starting in entry-level roles can help build practical skills and lead to more advanced positions.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Renton
Several well-known employers are frequently hiring Food Runners in Renton, including:
- Marriott International
- Din Tai Fung
- Earls
Establishments That Food Runners in Renton Work At
Food Runners in Renton often find work in a variety of food service locations:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Generally provide steady employment with moderate wages and tips.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: These typically offer faster-paced environments, with some variations in pay and tips.
- Fine Dining Establishments: Offer the highest tip potential and sometimes higher base pay.
- Hotels and Resorts: Provide regular hours and often additional benefits along with competitive salaries.
The type of establishment impacts both base salary and tip earnings, shaping overall compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Renton for Food Runners
For those interested in jobs related to Food Runners, here are some similar roles to consider.
These include Backwaiter, Cashier, and Fry Cook roles, which share similar environments and skill sets with Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Renton
Food Runners should be familiar with specific labor laws and tax regulations affecting their employment.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for comprehensive details on workplace rights and labor regulations in Washington.
- For federal labor standards, the U.S. Department of Labor website offers guidance on wages, hours, and worker protections.