Food Runner Salary in Saint-Paul, MN
Food Runners in Saint-Paul, MN, in 2025, earn approximately $15.09 per hour, which translates to about $603.60 per week, $2,615.60 per month, and $31,387.20 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Saint-Paul is growing positively at about 17.3% per year, indicating a strong and expanding job market in the food service industry within this region.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Saint-Paul, MN?
The salary of a Food Runner in Saint-Paul can vary depending on experience and the establishing employer, but here is a broad overview based on experience levels.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $11.64 | $465.60 | $2,011.20 | $24,134.40 |
| Mid-level (average) | $13.42 | $536.80 | $2,318.13 | $27,953.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $15.46 | $618.40 | $2,679.73 | $32,156.80 |
Do Food Runners in Saint-Paul Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do earn tips as part of their compensation. On average, they can net an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment’s tipping culture and the volume of customers served.
Food Runner Salary in Saint-Paul vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of about $16.51 per hour and roughly $34,340.80 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Saint-Paul earn slightly less hourly ($15.09) and annually ($31,387.20), which may reflect regional cost of living differences and local economic factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Saint-Paul for Food Runners
Nearby cities offer competitive wages for Food Runners, with some exceeding those in Saint-Paul:
- Minneapolis: $16.51 per hour
- Rochester: $18.18 per hour
For those willing to commute, Rochester offers higher pay, making it a good option for Food Runners seeking increased earnings close to Saint-Paul.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Saint-Paul?
The salary of a Food Runner in Saint-Paul can be shaped by several key factors:
- Experience Level: More experienced Food Runners tend to command higher wages due to efficiency and workplace knowledge.
- Establishment Type: Upscale or high-volume restaurants often offer better pay and tipping opportunities compared to casual dining.
- Skills and Speed: Quick service and accuracy can increase earning potential, especially where tips are a significant part of compensation.
- Shift Timing: Evening and weekend shifts may provide shift differentials or increased tips.
- Location Within City: Restaurants in busy or affluent neighborhoods may offer higher wages due to greater customer flow and tipping.
How To Become a Food Runner in Saint-Paul
Starting a career as a Food Runner in Saint-Paul can be straightforward but rewarding:
- Complete Basic Culinary or Hospitality Training: Enrolling in the Culinary Arts Program at Saint Paul College provides foundational cooking and food service knowledge useful for this role.
- Pursue Hospitality Knowledge: The Hospitality Management Program at University of St. Thomas can offer management insights even for entry roles.
- Acquire Food Safety Certifications: Certifications like the ServSafe Food Handler Certification ensure understanding of safe food handling practices, often required by employers.
- Gain On-the-Job Experience: Volunteer or start in entry-level positions in restaurants or cafes to build practical skills.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Saint-Paul
Some notable employers actively recruiting Food Runners in Saint-Paul include:
- Hai Hai
- Surly Brewing Company
- Sea Salt Eatery
Establishments That Food Runners in Saint-Paul Work At
Food Runners in Saint-Paul typically work in a variety of foodservice establishments:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Offer steady work and tipping opportunities but may have moderate hourly pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often busier; may offer quicker tips but potentially lower wages.
- Fine Dining: Can offer higher base pay and substantial tips due to the clientele and service standards.
- Brewpubs and Bars: Frequently pay competitive wages and offer substantial tips during busy nights and events.
The type of establishment greatly influences overall compensation, particularly the tipping potential and base hourly rate.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Saint-Paul for Food Runners
If you're exploring alternative roles similar to Food Runner, here are some positions to consider:
These include Backwaiter, Dishwasher, and Fry Cook roles, which share similar environments and sometimes overlapping responsibilities with Food Runners.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Saint-Paul
Understanding labor laws and tax responsibilities is essential for Food Runners working in Saint-Paul.
- For national labor regulations, visit the U.S. Department of Labor website.
- State-specific labor laws can be accessed via the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry.
- Local resources and regulations are available at the City of Saint Paul’s official site.