Food Runner Salary in Seattle, WA
Food Runners in Seattle, WA, in 2025, earn approximately $18.67 per hour, which translates to about $746.80 per week, $3,236.13 per month, and $38,833.60 per year.
The job demand for Food Runners in Seattle is growing steadily at about 5% per year, reflecting positive employment prospects within the hospitality and restaurant sectors over the coming years.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Seattle, WA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Seattle varies based on experience and employer, but here is a general overview across different experience levels.
| 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 | $2,430.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Seattle Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically do not earn tips directly as part of their compensation since their role focuses on timely food delivery within the restaurant rather than customer interaction, unlike servers or bartenders. However, in some establishments, occasional tips may be shared depending on local practice.
Food Runner Salary in Seattle vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to about $30,160 per year.
In Seattle, Food Runners earn more than the national average, with an hourly wage of $18.67 and an annual salary of $38,833.60. This difference is likely influenced by Seattle’s higher cost of living and robust hospitality sector.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Seattle for Food Runners
Nearby areas offer slightly different pay scales for Food Runners:
- Downtown: $20.50 per hour
- Capitol Hill: $19.80 per hour
Food Runners working in Downtown Seattle benefit from higher wages due to the density of upscale dining establishments and significant tourist traffic, while Capitol Hill also offers competitive pay.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Seattle?
Experience and Skill Level: More experienced Food Runners who work efficiently and know the layout and operations well often earn higher wages.
Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants, hotels, or banquet services tend to pay more compared to casual or fast-casual dining due to larger budgets and greater service expectations.
Work Shift: Working overnight or weekend shifts might offer additional pay or shift differentials.
Location: Working in popular or affluent neighborhoods typically increases earning potential.
How To Become a Food Runner in Seattle
Anyone interested in becoming a Food Runner in Seattle can follow these steps:
- Obtain Basic Food Safety Certification: The Washington State Food Worker Card is a mandatory certification ensuring knowledge of safe food handling practices.
- Gain Practical Experience: Food Runner roles often require little formal education but benefit from prior experience in food service or hospitality.
- Consider Culinary Education: Programs such as those at Seattle Culinary Academy or South Seattle College Culinary Arts Program can provide foundational skills applicable to food runner duties and enhance employment prospects.
- Alcohol Service Certification: In some venues, holding an Alcohol Server Permit (MAST) is advantageous for handling beverage service.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Seattle
Some of the notable employers recruiting Food Runners in Seattle include:
- Ruth's Chris Steak House
- Sheraton
- Market Seattle
Establishments That Food Runners in Seattle Work At
Food Runners typically work in a range of dining establishments, including casual dining, fast casual restaurants, hotels, and banquet facilities.
The type of establishment plays a significant role in salary. For instance, high-end restaurants and hotels often offer higher wages and tips, while fast casual venues might provide steadier but lower pay.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Seattle for Food Runners
If you are exploring professions related to the Food Runner role in Seattle, consider opportunities such as:
These roles—Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Busser—involve similar food service duties often found alongside Food Runners, and can offer opportunities for career advancement.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Seattle
Food Runners should familiarize themselves with local and federal labor laws to ensure fair work practices and compliance.
- Visit the Washington State Department of Labor & Industries website for comprehensive information on labor laws and workplace rights.
- For federal labor regulations and resources, check the U.S. Department of Labor website.