Food Runner Salary in Sterling Heights, MI
Food Runners in Sterling Heights, MI, in 2025, earn approximately $14.87 per hour, which translates to about $594.80 per week, $2,577.47 per month, and $30,929.60 per year.
The demand for Food Runners in Sterling Heights is growing steadily at about 5% per year, indicating a healthy job market and increasing opportunities in the local hospitality industry.
How Much Does a Food Runner Make in Sterling Heights, MI?
The salary of a Food Runner in Sterling Heights varies by experience and employer. Below is a general guide to earnings for 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 | $2,940.00 | $35,360.00 |
Do Food Runners in Sterling Heights Earn Tips?
Food Runners typically earn tips in addition to their hourly wage. These tips can range to an estimated $5 to $10 per hour during busy shifts, depending on the establishment and customer volume, significantly enhancing their overall earnings.
Food Runner Salary in Sterling Heights vs. National Average
Nationally, Food Runners average about $14.87 per hour, which equates to approximately $30,929.60 per year.
Food Runners in Sterling Heights earn wages that are in line with the national average, reflecting competitive pay consistent with the broader U.S. market for this role.
Highest-Paying Areas Near Sterling Heights for Food Runners
Nearby regions offer some variation in Food Runner salaries:
- Warren, MI: Approximately $15.50 per hour
- Troy, MI: Approximately $17.60 per hour
Food Runners commuting to areas like Troy may find higher pay rates, while Sterling Heights remains a solid location for employment with competitive compensation.
What Influences a Food Runner’s Salary in Sterling Heights?
Several factors impact Food Runners’ salaries in Sterling Heights:
- Experience: More experienced Food Runners often command higher pay due to efficiency and better service skills.
- Skills: Effective communication and speed are highly valued and may influence wages.
- Type of Establishment: Fine dining and upscale restaurants generally pay more than casual dining and fast-casual spots.
- Shift Times: Evening and weekend shifts may offer shift differentials or more tip opportunities.
- Local Economic Factors: Sterling Heights' cost of living and economic conditions shape pay scales.
How To Become a Food Runner in Sterling Heights
To start a career as a Food Runner in Sterling Heights, consider the following steps:
- Gain Basic Food Service Knowledge: Taking part in programs like the Culinary Arts Program at Macomb Community College can provide valuable skills and familiarity with food service.
- Work on Hospitality and Customer Service Skills: Hospitality Management Program at Oakland University offers foundational knowledge relevant to work in this role.
- Obtain Certifications: Certifications such as ServSafe Food Handler Certification and TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS) Certification demonstrate commitment to food safety and responsible service, making candidates more attractive to employers.
- Start with Entry-Level Positions: Many Food Runners begin their career as helpers or assistants in restaurants and work their way up through experience.
Top Employers Hiring Food Runners in Sterling Heights
Several well-known establishments in and around Sterling Heights frequently hire Food Runners, including:
- Texas Roadhouse
- Art & Jakes
- Red Lobster
Establishments That Food Runners in Sterling Heights Work At
Food Runners are employed in a variety of dining environments in Sterling Heights:
- Casual Dining Restaurants: These establishments are common employers and may offer steady but moderate pay.
- Fast Casual Restaurants: Often busier with higher turnover, these can offer opportunities for tips and flexible hours.
- Fine Dining: Upscale restaurants typically provide higher wages and tipping potential, which can significantly increase overall income.
- Buffets and Large Banquet Facilities: These venues may employ Food Runners to efficiently manage food delivery and replenishment.
The type of establishment typically affects both base pay and tip potential.
Related Hospitality Jobs in Sterling Heights for Food Runners
If you’re interested in related roles within the hospitality industry near Sterling Heights, consider similar positions with overlapping skills and duties.
These include Backwaiter, Fry Cook, and Busser roles, each offering distinct paths within food service and hospitality.
Labor Laws and Taxes for Food Runners in Sterling Heights
Food Runners in Sterling Heights should understand local and federal labor laws that impact wages and work conditions.
- Michigan state labor laws and resources are available at the Michigan government website.
- Federal regulations can be reviewed at the U.S. Department of Labor website.