Food Runner Salary in Salem, OR
Food Runners in Salem, OR, in 2025, earn approximately $18.80 per hour, which translates to about $752.00 per week, $3,258.67 per month, and $39,104.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Salem is growing at about 10% per year, indicating a positive outlook and an increasing need for these roles in the local foodservice industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Salem, OR?
The salary of a Food Runner in Salem can vary depending on experience and the employer, but here is an overview across different levels of experience.
| Experience level | Hourly pay | Weekly pay | Monthly pay | Yearly pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level (~25th percentile) | $14.46 | $578.40 | $2,502.40 | $30,028.80 |
| Mid-level (average) | $22.97 | $918.80 | $3,965.20 | $47,737.60 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $36.47 | $1,458.80 | $6,302.13 | $75,657.60 |
Do Food Runners in Salem Earn Tips?
Food Runners often receive tips as part of their compensation. In Salem, a Food Runner can expect to earn an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, depending on the establishment and customer volume, which can significantly enhance total earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Salem vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $18.49 per hour, translating to approximately $38,459.20 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Salem earn slightly more at about $18.80 per hour and $39,104 annually, reflecting local market conditions and cost of living.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Salem for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer varying pay rates for Food Runners:
- Downtown Salem: $19.50 per hour
- West Salem: $18.80 per hour
Those working in Downtown Salem generally see a higher hourly wage compared to West Salem, possibly due to higher demand and busier dining scenes.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Salem?
Experience and skill level play a significant role in determining a Food Runner’s earnings. More seasoned Food Runners with excellent customer service and multitasking abilities can command higher wages.
The type of establishment also affects pay rates. Fine dining restaurants and busy metropolitan venues tend to pay more than fast casual or smaller eateries.
Shift timings matter, as evening or weekend shifts can offer shift differentials or increased tips.
Local cost of living and demand influence salary ranges, with Salem's growing culinary scene pushing wages upward.
How To Become a Food Runner in Salem
To pursue a career as a Food Runner in Salem, consider these steps:
- Obtain a Oregon Food Handler's Card, which is mandatory for all food service workers to ensure knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- If working in establishments serving alcohol, securing an Alcohol Service Permit is often required to comply with state regulations on responsible alcohol service.
- Enroll in hospitality-focused programs such as the Chemeketa Community College Hospitality Management Program for foundational industry knowledge and skills training.
- Participate in the Oregon Restaurant & Lodging Association Training, which offers specialized training tailored to restaurant staff, including Food Runners, focusing on service excellence and safety.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Salem
Some of the prominent employers actively seeking Food Runners in Salem include:
- Willamette Valley Vineyards
- Texas Roadhouse
- McGrath's Fish House
Establishments That Food Runners in Salem Work At
Food Runners typically work in a variety of foodservice settings:
- Casual dining restaurants: These places offer steady work with moderate pay and tipping opportunities.
- Fast casual establishments: These can have higher volume but sometimes lower wages and tips.
- Fine dining venues: Such establishments generally pay higher wages and provide more substantial tips due to higher customer spending.
- Hotels and banquet halls: Work here often comes with opportunities for tips and sometimes benefits.
The type and prestige of the establishment have a noticeable impact on the Food Runner’s salary and tip potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Salem for Food Runners
If you are interested in careers similar to Food Running, you might consider roles with overlapping skills and responsibilities.
These include Backwaiter, Busser, and Fast Food Worker roles, which share service and operational responsibilities in the hospitality industry.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Salem
Food Runners need to stay informed about applicable labor laws and tax requirements to ensure compliance and fair treatment.
- For state labor laws and employment regulations, visit the Oregon Bureau of Labor and Industries.
- Food safety rules and guidelines can be found on the Oregon Department of Agriculture website.
- For federal labor laws and resources, consult the U.S. Department of Labor.