Food Runner Salary in Springfield, MA
Food Runners in Springfield, MA, in 2025, earn approximately $17.30 per hour, which translates to about $692.00 per week, $2,998.67 per month, and $35,984.00 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Springfield is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating positive job outlook and expanding opportunities in the local hospitality and restaurant industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Springfield, MA?
The salary of a Food Runner in Springfield varies depending on experience and employer. Here is a breakdown of pay 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 | $2,436.00 | $29,328.00 |
| Top earners (90th percentile) | $17.00 | $680.00 | $2,946.67 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Springfield Earn Tips?
Food Runners often do earn tips, thanks to their direct service roles in busy restaurants. It is common for Food Runners to make an extra $5 to $10 per hour in tips, providing a valuable boost to their overall compensation.
Food Runner Salary in Springfield vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners earn an average of around $14.50 per hour, translating to approximately $30,160 per year.
Compared to the national average, Food Runners in Springfield earn a higher hourly wage at about $17.30 per hour and an annual salary of $35,984.00.
This reflects a slightly more competitive pay scale in Springfield, likely driven by local market demand and cost of living factors.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Springfield for Food Runners
Nearby areas also offer some of the highest pay rates for Food Runners:
- West Springfield: $22.39 per hour
- Hadley: $21.91 per hour
Working in West Springfield or Hadley could offer significantly higher earnings than Springfield proper, making commuting a lucrative consideration.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Springfield?
Several factors impact how much a Food Runner earns in Springfield:
- Experience and Work Efficiency: Veterans and fast-paced workers typically earn more.
- Type of Establishment: High-end restaurants and hotels usually pay better than casual dining or fast food outlets.
- Tips and Service Skills: Strong customer service skills can increase tip income significantly.
- Shift Timing: Evening, weekend, or holiday shifts may come with higher pay or bonuses.
How To Become a Food Runner in Springfield
To succeed as a Food Runner in Springfield, consider these pathways:
- Obtain training at local institutions like Holyoke Community College Culinary Arts Program for culinary basics.
- Consider enrolling in Springfield Technical Community College Hospitality Management Program for broader industry knowledge.
- Gain certification such as the ServSafe Food Handler Certification to demonstrate food safety knowledge, which is frequently required.
- Obtain the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification if working in establishments serving alcohol.
- Develop strong customer service and teamwork skills through internships or entry-level positions.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Springfield
Key employers offering positions for Food Runners include:
- Chili's
- MGM Springfield
- Center Square Grill
Establishments That Food Runners in Springfield Work At
Food Runners are typically employed across various types of dining establishments in Springfield, such as:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: Moderate pay but often provide ongoing work opportunities.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Typically fast-paced with lower base pay but potential for tips.
- Hotels and Resorts: Often higher wages and more structured schedules.
- Entertainment Venues and Casinos: Like MGM Springfield, these offer distinctive opportunities that sometimes come with premium pay.
The type of establishment substantially influences salary and tip potential, with upscale venues generally offering better compensation.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Springfield for Food Runners
If you’re exploring similar roles, consider these related hospitality positions that share skills and duties with Food Runners:
These related roles include Backwaiter, Busser, and Dishwasher—all of which involve supporting restaurant operations and can lead to progression into Food Runner or server positions.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Springfield
Food Runners in Springfield should stay informed about relevant labor and tax regulations to ensure proper rights and compliance.
- Visit the official Massachusetts government website for state labor laws concerning minimum wage, overtime, and workplace standards.
- For federal workplace laws, check the U.S. Department of Labor website for comprehensive resources.