Food Runner Salary in Rochester, MN
Food Runners in Rochester, MN, 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 Rochester is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the local food service industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Rochester, MN?
The salary of a Food Runner in Rochester varies by experience, with entry-level positions earning less and experienced runners commanding higher wages.
| 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Rochester Earn Tips?
Food Runners generally do not earn tips as their role is primarily focused on delivering food from the kitchen to customers without direct table service. Their earnings mostly consist of their wages rather than gratuities.
Food Runner Salary in Rochester vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, which translates to approximately $30,160 per year.
Food Runners in Rochester earn slightly less than the national average, with about $13.90 per hour and $28,912 annually, reflecting regional cost-of-living differences and market demand.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Rochester for Food Runners
For Food Runners seeking higher pay, nearby areas offer some variation in wages:
- Downtown: $15.50 per hour
- Northwest Rochester: $17.60 per hour
Food Runners working in Northwest Rochester earn noticeably more, which may be due to specific employer pay scales or the type of establishments in that area.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Rochester?
The salary of a Food Runner in Rochester can be influenced by several factors, including:
- Experience and Efficiency: More experienced Food Runners who work quickly and with fewer errors tend to command better pay.
- Skills and Knowledge: Understanding restaurant operations and maintaining strong communication enhances value.
- Type of Establishment: High-end or busy restaurants may offer higher wages compared to casual or fast food settings.
- Shift and Hours: Evening or weekend shifts might include shift differentials boosting total earnings.
How To Become a Food Runner in Rochester
To start a career as a Food Runner in Rochester, you can follow these key steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Many employers value experience in food handling and customer service.
- Enroll in Culinary or Food Service Programs: Programs such as the Rochester Community and Technical College Culinary Arts Program provide comprehensive skills relevant to food service roles.
- Consider Specialized Courses: The Mayo Clinic Healthy Living Program offers courses on nutrition and healthy cooking, useful for Food Runners focused on health-conscious establishments.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification and Minnesota Alcohol Server Training enhance employability and credibility.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Rochester
Local employers actively recruiting Food Runners include:
- McDonald's
- Five Guys
- Fiji Island
Establishments That Food Runners in Rochester Work At
Food Runners typically find work in a variety of establishments, such as:
- Fast Food Restaurants: Often have structured pay scales but usually lower wages.
- Casual Dining: These pay moderately and might offer more flexible hours.
- Fine Dining and Health-Conscious Eateries: Tend to offer higher wages due to expectations for speed and accuracy.
The type of establishment greatly influences pay, with fast-casual and fine dining establishments offering better earning potential due to service expectations and tip sharing structures.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Rochester for Food Runners
If you are interested in roles akin to Food Runner, consider these related positions that offer similar skills and growth opportunities:
This includes positions like Backwaiter, Server, and Fry Cook, which share aspects of food service and customer interaction.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Rochester
Food Runners in Rochester should familiarize themselves with local labor laws and tax responsibilities to safeguard their rights and ensure compliance.
- Visit the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry - State labor laws and regulations for detailed labor information.
- Consult the Internal Revenue Service - Federal tax information and resources for tax guidelines.
- Access local updates and resources at the City of Rochester Official Website - Local government resources and information.