Food Runner Salary in Riverside, CA
Food Runners in Riverside, CA, in 2025, earn approximately $15.83 per hour, which translates to about $633.20 per week, $2,743.87 per month, and $32,926.40 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Riverside is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting a positive outlook for employment opportunities in the hospitality and food service industries in the region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Riverside, CA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Riverside can vary depending on experience and the specific employer, but here is a general look at earnings across experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $15.53 | $621.20 | $2,686.13 | $32,262.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $15.83 | $633.20 | $2,743.87 | $32,926.40 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $16.14 | $645.60 | $2,799.20 | $33,571.20 |
Do Food Runners in Riverside Earn Tips?
Food Runners often earn tips in addition to their base salary, though the amount can vary by establishment. Many Food Runners in Riverside may earn an extra $2 to $5 per hour in tips, enhancing their overall compensation significantly depending on restaurant traffic and customer generosity.
Food Runner Salary in Riverside 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 Riverside earn less, at about $15.83 per hour and $32,926.40 annually, which may reflect regional cost of living differences and local industry standards.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Riverside for Food Runners
When considering nearby locations, Food Runner salaries can differ:
- Redlands: $20.97 per hour
- Anaheim: $19.47 per hour
Food Runners commuting to Redlands or Anaheim might find higher pay compared to Riverside, with Redlands notably offering the highest hourly wages among these areas.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Riverside?
Several factors affect how much a Food Runner can earn in Riverside:
- Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Food Runners may handle duties more efficiently, which can lead to wage increases.
- Type of Establishment: Upscale or busy restaurants typically pay more than casual or fast-food venues.
- Shift and Hours Worked: Evening and weekend shifts often come with higher demand and potentially better tips.
- Customer Base and Location: Restaurants in high-traffic or tourist areas generally have higher tip pools and wages.
- Additional Responsibilities: Food Runners who take on extra tasks such as assisting servers or host duties may earn more.
How To Become a Food Runner in Riverside
Becoming a Food Runner in Riverside involves several key steps:
- Obtain Required Food Safety Certifications: Certifications such as the California Food Handler Card and ServSafe Food Handler Certification are typically mandatory and demonstrate important knowledge of safe food handling.
- Enroll in Relevant Educational Programs: Consider training at programs like the Riverside City College Culinary Arts Program, which offers comprehensive culinary skills, or the San Bernardino Valley College Hospitality Management Program for hospitality knowledge beneficial in food service careers.
- Gain Practical Experience: Entry-level restaurant positions such as bussing or hosting can provide relevant work experience.
- Develop Strong Communication and Customer Service Skills: Interpersonal skills are important for efficiently delivering food and interacting with both customers and staff.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Riverside
Some of the prominent employers frequently hiring Food Runners in Riverside include:
- Yard House
- Chili's
- Olive Garden
Establishments That Food Runners in Riverside Work At
Food Runners commonly work in:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These locations often provide steady work with moderate pay and tipping opportunities.
- Fast Casual Establishments: Pay may be somewhat lower here, but shifts can be flexible and volume steady.
- Fine Dining Restaurants: These establishments may offer higher base pay and better tipping potentials due to clientele.
- Hotel Restaurants and Resort Dining: Such environments often provide enhanced benefits and competitive salaries.
The type and prestige of the establishment significantly impact Food Runner salaries, with higher-end venues generally providing the best overall compensation packages.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Riverside for Food Runners
If you're interested in careers similar to Food Running, you might consider roles such as:
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Server, roles that share similarities in hospitality and customer service responsibilities.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Riverside
Food Runners should be familiar with relevant labor laws and tax regulations to ensure compliance and protect their rights:
- Details on California state labor laws can be found at the California Department of Industrial Relations, which covers wage standards, breaks, and workplace rights.
- For local employment resources and ordinances specific to Riverside, visit the City of Riverside Official Website.